A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wilmington vs. Grand Teton National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park, 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Wilmington and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wilmington. Although Wilmington and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Wilmington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wilmington is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Teton National Park is more touristy than Wilmington and is known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. It is also home to the Battleship North Carolina.

How is Wilmington different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is the Food Better in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.


Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is a great city for its beaches. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Wilmington is considered a top beach destination. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Grand Teton National Park does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Grand Teton National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Grand Teton National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wilmington. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington and Grand Teton National Park are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Grand Teton National Park is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Grand Teton National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.


Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Wilmington
Grand Teton National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Wilmington is somewhat walkable. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

For even more information, also check out Is Wilmington Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Wilmington and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Wilmington. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wilmington than Grand Teton National Park 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 Wilmington.


  • How many days in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wilmington 2-5 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic city of Wilmington. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

With around the impressive park of Grand Teton National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wilmington. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

With around the destination of Grand Teton National Park, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Wilmington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Grand Teton National Park, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Wilmington is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Wilmington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Wilmington is $204, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $162. 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 Wilmington and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wilmington $120
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wilmington $240
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Wilmington and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Wilmington or Grand Teton 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 Wilmington


Hotels in Grand Teton 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: Wilmington Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wilmington $47
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140
  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Wilmington or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $56
    Grand Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wilmington $17
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wilmington.

  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $50
  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $55
  • 2.5 Hr E-Bike tour of Wilmington's History, Haunts & one Haunted Pub: $65
  • 4.5 Hour Wilmington River to Sea E-Bike Adventure Tour: $85
  • 4.5-Hour Wilmington River to Sea E-Bike Adventure Tour: $85
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Craft Beer and History Crawl Shared Experience in Wilmington: $30
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $21
  • Eco Kayak Tour in Wrightsville Beach: $75
  • Half Day Carolina Beach E-Bike Tour: $75
  • Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Wilmington's History, Haunts & Breweries: $85
  • Half-Day E-Bike Tour of the Filming Locations in One Tree Hill: $85

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wilmington $39
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Wilmington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wilmington:

  • 2-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • 2-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wilmington and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Wilmington is more expensive. And not only is Grand Teton National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Grand Teton National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Grand Teton 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 Wilmington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wilmington than you might in Grand Teton National Park.

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