A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Grand Canyon 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.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a suburban, cultural, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Atlanta travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a striking, breathtaking, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Atlanta and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlanta than Grand Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlanta is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Atlanta and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Atlanta different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlanta is renowned for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Atlanta from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlanta is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Atlanta. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlanta is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Atlanta has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Grand Canyon National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.


Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Grand Canyon National Park for the hiking trails. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlanta is renowned for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Atlanta. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlanta is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly destination. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.


Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlanta is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit Atlanta. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlanta and Grand Canyon National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlanta and Grand Canyon National Park are notable when it comes to walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.


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

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park. In our opinion, Atlanta has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Atlanta than Grand Canyon National Park. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in Atlanta has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in Atlanta has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Atlanta. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Atlanta. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Canyon National Park or Atlanta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Atlanta Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlanta $204
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $204, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $203. 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 Atlanta and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Grand Canyon 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Grand Canyon 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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Grand Canyon National Park $43
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

Also for Atlanta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Round Trip Private Transfer from Atlanta Airport to your Hotel : $40
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV/Van: $147
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta by Business Car: $131
  • Private Transfer Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta City: $38
  • Private One-way Transfer from Atlanta Airport to Atlanta: $83
  • Land transfer limo suv sedan vans : $145
  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Sedan Car: $131
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $147
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL by SUV: $139
  • Departure Transfer From Atlanta to Hartsfield Airport ATL by Van: $300
  • Departure Private Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury Car: $285

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $74
    Grand Canyon National Park $84
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

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

  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $65
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Macaron Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class With a Local Chef: $75
  • Atlanta : 2-Hour Gnocchi Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Walking Food Tour: $106
  • Private Atlanta Cooking Class with a Fun Local Chef Naina: $139
  • Prohibition Themed Downtown Atlanta Progressive Dinner: $275

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Canyon National Park

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

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner included: $170

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market: $95
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta: $69
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Midtown Atlanta: $69
  • 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour : $99
  • 3-Hour Private Atlanta MCU Comics Inspired Film Location Tour: $175
  • 90-Minute Guided Sightseeing Tour: $45
  • 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta: $36
  • ATL Remix Tour: $80
  • Art on the Streets: Private Atlanta Public and Street Art Tour: $159
  • Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus: $70
  • Atlanta Beltline Cocktails and Bites Experience: $129
  • Atlanta Comedy City Tour: $42

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • Express Grand Canyon Jeep Tour : $136
  • Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Hiking Tour • South Kaibab Trail: $179
  • Grand Canyon Day Hiking Private Below the Rim Tour: $689
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $199
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $187
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $170
  • Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Grand Canyon National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Atlanta's Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $130
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $144
  • North Georgia Mountains TWO Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $155
  • Elijay Hike w/ Waterfall & Wine Tasting Private Tour from ATL: $230
  • Georgia Vineyards Wine Tour: $2,300


When comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Atlanta 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 Atlanta Expensive? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.