A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Denali National Park for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Denali National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a diverse, vibrant, and fun-filled beach area. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a epic, vast, and rugged park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

West Palm Beach and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in West Palm Beach. Although West Palm Beach and Denali National Park are popular destinations, West Palm Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. West Palm Beach is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Denali National Park attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. West Palm Beach is famous for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. It is also well known for Rosemary Square. Denali National Park is famous for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is West Palm Beach different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denali National Park and West Palm Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Denali National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

Both West Palm Beach and Denali National Park offer reasonable local cuisine and restaurants.

West Palm Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Denali National Park. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

West Palm Beach is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, West Palm Beach is a perfect choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Denali National Park has a few great resort options. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.


Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for its diving and snorkeling. However, Denali National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Denali National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

West Palm Beach is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Denali National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, West Palm Beach is a very popular vacation destination. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Denali National Park is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a popular place for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Denali National Park is a good destination for hiking. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is adequate for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Denali National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, West Palm Beach is very family-friendly. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Denali National Park make for a great place to visit.

West Palm Beach is a great beach area if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Denali National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.


Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Many backpackers frequent Denali National Park. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

West Palm Beach is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Denali National Park is not known for its public transit.

While West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Public transit is generally limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Is West Palm Beach or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
Denali National Park

West Palm Beach is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable place. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Denali National Park is not a walkable beach area. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.


For even more information, also check out Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either West Palm Beach or Denali National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

Families should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Denali National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in West Palm Beach, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Denali National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in West Palm Beach that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denali National Park than West Palm Beach 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 Denali National Park.


  • How many days in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of West Palm Beach. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The rugged destination of Denali National Park offers . Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

West Palm Beach is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The park of Denali National Park offers . A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

Many people visit West Palm Beach for five days. Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beach area of West Palm Beach. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer.

Denali National Park is a great place to explore. This park offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the vibrant destination of West Palm Beach. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in West Palm Beach, one week is sufficent for most.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Denali National Park. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or West Palm Beach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $330, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $218. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for West Palm Beach and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach or Denali National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in West Palm Beach


Hotels in Denali National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: West Palm Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Luxury SUV: $109
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Business Car: $94
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $83
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port - Arrival Transfer: $41
  • Palm Beach hotels to Cruise Port of Palm Beach - Departure Private Transfer : $41
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - Arrival Private Transfer : $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denali National Park

Also for Denali National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shuttle Transfer: Anchorage ↔ Denali National Park: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and West Palm Beach change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    West Palm Beach $66
    Denali National Park $57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

For West Palm Beach, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $85
  • Downtown Food Tour: $85
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $101
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Historic Neighborhood Food Tour: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 2-Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster Park, Blue Heron Bridge: $60
  • 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion off Peanut Island Park: $77
  • Beginner Scuba Diving Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $99
  • Beginner Snorkel Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $49
  • Blue Heron Bridge Guided Snorkel Tour : $90
  • Blue Heron Bridge Half Day Reef Snorkeling Adventure With Lunch: $56
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Christmas Light Cruise from Jupiter: $75
  • Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida: $75
  • Clear Kayak Tour in Jupiter: $79
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $79
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $119
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Hiking Tour in Denali: $199
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in Denali: $169
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $150
  • Authentical Denali Tour from Denali Park and Fairbanks: $260
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $150
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $114
  • Denali National Park Walking Tour: $125
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $165
  • Denali Self-Guided Jeep Adventure: $244
  • Half-Day Denali River Rafting Experience: $229

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    Denali National Park $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between West Palm Beach and Denali National Park, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Denali National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Denali National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Denali National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in West Palm Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in West Palm Beach than you might in Denali National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is West Palm Beach Expensive? and Is Denali National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit West Palm Beach or Denali National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Denali National Park in the Summer?

Both Denali National Park and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Denali National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in West Palm Beach in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

It's quite rainy in West Palm Beach. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    West Palm Beach 82°F (28°C) 
    Denali National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Denali National Park in the Autumn?

Both Denali National Park and West Palm Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Denali National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Denali National Park can get quite cold in the autumn. In October, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 78°F (25°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Denali National Park. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    West Palm Beach 78°F (25°C) 
    Denali National Park 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Denali National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Denali National Park. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Denali National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Denali National Park can be very cold during winter. West Palm Beach is much warmer than Denali National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 65°F (19°C) in January, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 11°F (-12°C).

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    West Palm Beach 65°F (19°C) 
    Denali National Park 11°F (-12°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Denali National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Denali National Park. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Denali National Park because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Denali National Park can be very cold. In the spring, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in West Palm Beach in April average around 74°F (23°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 34°F (1°C).

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than Denali National Park. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    West Palm Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Denali National Park 34°F (1°C)

Typical Weather for Denali National Park and West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach Denali National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 11°F (-12°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 16°F (-9°C) 1.4 inches (37 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 23°F (-5°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 56°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (108 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 32°F (0°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)