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

Should you visit Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Atlantic City and Grand Canyon National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a flashy, party-oriented, and colorful city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and gorgeous national park. The famous beauty of Grand Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Atlantic City and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • 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 nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park. Although Atlantic City and Grand Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Grand Canyon National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Atlantic City is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Atlantic City is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Grand Canyon National Park is popular for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. It is also home to the sunset views.

How is Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlantic City is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlantic City is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Atlantic City. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

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 Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlantic City is renowned for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Atlantic City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

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 Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlantic City is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Atlantic City to choose from. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

With a selection of resorts, Grand Canyon National Park makes a nice vacation spot. 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.


Is Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlantic City is a good destination for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Atlantic City offers a nice beach destination. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Grand Canyon National Park. 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.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlantic City is a good destination for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Grand Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Grand Canyon National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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!).

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.


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

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Canyon National Park is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlantic City is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Atlantic City has some public transit options. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

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 Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Grand Canyon National Park

Atlantic City is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Grand Canyon 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 Atlantic City.


  • How many days in Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlantic City 1-3 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Atlantic City, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this glitzy destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned destination of Grand Canyon National Park. 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 Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Atlantic City, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. 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 Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park 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 Atlantic City or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Atlantic City. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Grand Canyon National Park. 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 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, Grand Canyon National Park or Atlantic City?

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

  • Atlantic City Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlantic City $190
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $190, 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 Atlantic City and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City


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: Atlantic City Hotel Prices and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Atlantic City 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
    Atlantic City $86
    Grand Canyon National Park $84

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.
    Atlantic City $44
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

Here are a few actual costs in Atlantic City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Hour Private Escape Room Experience in Ocean City: $36
  • 1-Hour Ocean Parasailing Adventure In Ocean City, MD: $95
  • 1-Hour Private Party Assateague Island Pony Cruise in Ocean City: $200
  • 1-Hour Private Party Happy Hour Booze Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $190
  • 1-Hour Sea Rocket Sunset & OC Harbor Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $38
  • 45-Minute Sea Rocket Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City MD: $40
  • 75 Minute Private Party Back Bay Sunset Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $200
  • Aces to Ashes: Apparitions of Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghost Tour: $31
  • Assateague Horses, Herons and Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $29
  • Downtown/Boardwalk Foodie Tour: $110
  • EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $35

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:

  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour Bundle: $32
  • Grand Canyon West: All Access Ticket: $114
  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Express Grand Canyon Jeep Tour : $136
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • Tusayan: Grand Canyon Desert View & South Rim Pink Jeep Tour: $150
  • Grand Entrance Sunset Tour from Tusayan: $155
  • Premier Grand Canyon JeepTour: $157
  • Private Grand Canyon South Rim VAN tours: $162

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


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