A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Ketchikan for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit San Francisco or Ketchikan?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Ketchikan, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a quirky, eccentric, and one-of-a-kind coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty in San Francisco as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See San Francisco travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a quaint, local, and scenic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Ketchikan attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking. See Ketchikan travel costs.

San Francisco and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Francisco or Ketchikan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Ketchikan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Francisco is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ketchikan is more popular for its small town charm. San Francisco is more touristy than Ketchikan and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge. Ketchikan is well known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is San Francisco different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ketchikan and San Francisco. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Francisco or Ketchikan?

San Francisco is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in San Francisco that are not to be missed. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Theater?

San Francisco is very good for theatre. However, Ketchikan is not a theatre destination.

San Francisco offers a number of shows and performances. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Ketchikan is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in San Francisco or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between San Francisco and Ketchikan can be difficult as they are each terrific in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Francisco is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Music?

San Francisco is very good for live music. However, Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is notable for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

San Francisco and Ketchikan are both places where visitors can find terrific hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Around Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Ketchikan?

San Francisco is renowned for shopping. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

San Francisco is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ketchikan. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

San Francisco is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in San Francisco as well. With its dramatic Golden Gate Bridge, and the many beautiful hills with striking views of the city and bay, San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States.

The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Families?

San Francisco is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Ketchikan is very family-friendly. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

San Francisco and Ketchikan are both excellent to visit as a couple.

San Francisco is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco is notable for backpackers. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Students?

San Francisco is notable for students. However, Ketchikan is not popular with students.

San Francisco is very popular with students. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Ketchikan is not popular with students.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Francisco is renowned for its public transit. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

San Francisco has a great public transit system. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Is San Francisco or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

San Francisco and Ketchikan are excellent when it comes to walkability.

San Francisco is a very walkable destination. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

Ketchikan is very walkable. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is San Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Francisco and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Ketchikan. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for San Francisco, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

Families should spend more time in San Francisco than Ketchikan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Francisco, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in San Francisco than Ketchikan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Francisco that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Ketchikan if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in San Francisco.

One day in San Francisco or Ketchikan?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quaint destination of Ketchikan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in San Francisco or Ketchikan?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ketchikan. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in San Francisco or Ketchikan?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the local destination of Ketchikan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in San Francisco or Ketchikan?

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Ketchikan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between San Francisco and Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Francisco Expensive? and Is Ketchikan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Francisco or Ketchikan?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of San Francisco and Ketchikan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit San Francisco or Ketchikan?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit San Francisco or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and San Francisco during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, San Francisco is a little warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Francisco in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. San Francisco usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. San Francisco gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Francisco or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Francisco and Ketchikan. The autumn months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

In October, San Francisco is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 63°F (17°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. San Francisco gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Francisco or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to San Francisco as well as Ketchikan. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ketchikan. San Francisco is much warmer than Ketchikan in the winter. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. San Francisco usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. San Francisco gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Francisco or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and San Francisco are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, San Francisco is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Francisco in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 44°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In April, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. San Francisco gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and San Francisco