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

Should you visit Boston 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 Boston 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.

Boston

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Boston travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and gorgeous national park. You'll find world class beauty in Grand Canyon National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Boston and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Grand Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Grand Canyon National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

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

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

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Travelers visit Boston from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Theater?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Boston is a very popular place for theatre. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Boston 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 Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

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 Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Boston has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Music?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Boston is a good destination for live music. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a good destination for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Boston is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for its Old Town?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Boston is renowned for its historic old town. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Boston is one of the most recognized in the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

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

Is Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

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

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Boston or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Grand Canyon National Park as well. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Boston is a beautiful place to visit, too. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

Is Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Boston is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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!).

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.


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

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Boston or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Boston is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Boston has a great public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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 Boston or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Boston
Grand Canyon National Park

Boston is renowned for its walkability. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Boston or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Boston or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Boston due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston 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 Boston.


  • How many days in Boston or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Boston or Grand Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or Grand Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Boston or Grand Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.

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. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Boston. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the striking destination of Grand Canyon National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


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

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

  • Boston Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boston $291
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $291, 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 Boston and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Boston and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Boston 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 Boston


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: Boston Hotel Prices and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    Grand Canyon National Park $43
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Round trip Airport Transfer: Boston Logan to Downton Boston : $300
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Boston (hotel OR airport pick-up): $196
  • Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $190
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $192
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $192
  • Private Transfer from Flynn Cruise Port to Boston Airport (BOS): $81
  • Private Transfer from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Newport Port: $192
  • Private Transfer from Boston City to Boston (BOS) Airport: $113
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $192
  • Private Transfer from Boston Airport to Providence RI: $294
  • Private Transfer from Boston Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port: $82
  • Private Transfer from Boston (BOS) Airport to Boston City: $112

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

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

  • Self Guided "The North End Pizza, Cannoli and Picnic" Solo Walking Tour : $5.50
  • Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $65
  • Boston Pizza Lovers Food & History Walking Food Tour: $69
  • North End Pizza Walking Tour with 3 Slices & Cannoli: $69
  • 2-Hour Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Boston: $75
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $75
  • Pizza, Beer, and Paul Revere Tour: $75
  • City Cruises Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $89
  • Boston’s Politically Incorrect North End Food tour: $98

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.
    Boston $33
    Grand Canyon National Park $35
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

  • Boston Massachusetts Private Photography Tour: $130
  • Freedom Trail Walking Tour: $26
  • Salem Witch Tour: $80
  • "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $30
  • 1 Hour Boston Segway Tour: $69
  • 1 If By Land Walking Tours: $45
  • 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour of Boston With *20+ Stops: $48
  • 1692 Salem Day Tour: $35
  • 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $35
  • 2 Hour Boston Historical and Heritage Walking Tour: $5.00
  • 2-Day Niagara Falls USA Tour from Boston: $49

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

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    Grand Canyon National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Bar Crawl Back Bay Beat Bar Craw: $15
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $35
  • 2 Hour Historic Pub Crawl in Boston: $35
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $36
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $56
  • Boston Freedom Trail History Pub Crawl Small-Group Tour: $60
  • Freedom Trail History Tour and Brewery Taste: $71
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Boston: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Distillery in Boston: $75


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

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