A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cincinnati vs. Ketchikan for Food, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

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

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

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a hard-working, blue collar, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Cincinnati travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Cincinnati and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Cincinnati and Ketchikan are popular destinations, Ketchikan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ketchikan is very popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cincinnati attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Ketchikan is more touristy than Cincinnati and is known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also well known for the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Cincinnati is famous for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Cincinnati different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ketchikan and Cincinnati. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Cincinnati is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Cincinnati specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.


Is the Food Better in Cincinnati or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Ketchikan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

Cincinnati is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Mixed in with the standard chain and fast food options, you'll find some local restaurants that serve up the iconic Midwestern favorites. For a taste of the town, try Cincinnati chili, barbecue ribs, and a corned beef Reuben.

Is Cincinnati or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Cincinnati is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cincinnati. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is Cincinnati or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Cincinnati is not a hiking destination.

People visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

Cincinnati is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Shopping is a popular activity in both Ketchikan and Cincinnati.

Cincinnati offers some nice shopping areas. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.

Ketchikan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is Cincinnati or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Cincinnati is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Cincinnati is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cincinnati or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Ketchikan is a very kid-friendly town. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Cincinnati offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.


Is Cincinnati or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is well known for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Ketchikan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.

Is Cincinnati or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Cincinnati and Ketchikan are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Ketchikan is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Is Cincinnati or Ketchikan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Cincinnati is very good for its public transit. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Cincinnati has a few public transit options. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.


Is Cincinnati or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Cincinnati
Ketchikan

Cincinnati and Ketchikan both are great when exploring on foot.

Cincinnati is a very walkable city. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

Ketchikan is a very walkable destination. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Cincinnati Worth Visiting? and Is Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Cincinnati?

How long in Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cincinnati and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ketchikan than in Cincinnati. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cincinnati, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cincinnati than Ketchikan 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 Cincinnati.


  • How many days in Cincinnati or Ketchikan? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cincinnati 1-2 
    Ketchikan 1-3

One day in Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Cincinnati. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cincinnati has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and food around the local town of Ketchikan, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ketchikan, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the hard-working destination of Cincinnati. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the destination of Ketchikan, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the blue collar city of Cincinnati. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ketchikan, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

Cincinnati is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Ketchikan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Ketchikan or Cincinnati?

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

  • Cincinnati Prices
    USA Prices
    Ketchikan Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cincinnati $223
    Ketchikan $259

The average daily cost (per person) in Cincinnati is $223, while the average daily cost in Ketchikan is $259. 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 Cincinnati and Ketchikan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cincinnati $102
    Ketchikan $136
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cincinnati $204
    Ketchikan $272
Compare Hotels in Cincinnati and Ketchikan

Looking for a hotel in Cincinnati or Ketchikan? 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 Cincinnati


Hotels in Ketchikan


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: Cincinnati Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cincinnati $25
    Ketchikan $39

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

Is it cheaper to fly into Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

Prices for flights to both Ketchikan and Cincinnati 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
    Cincinnati $95
    Ketchikan $92

Typical Food Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of dining costs in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Slice of Pie & Drink
    $5.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cincinnati $26
    Ketchikan $46

Typical Entertainment Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Ticket to Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    $35
  • Duck Tour (one person)
    $38
  • Bear Viewing Tour
    $83

Tours and Activities in Ketchikan

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

  • Ghost Walk Guided Tour: $35
  • City Highlights Totem Parks and Sightseeing: $59
  • Beautiful Totem Bight State Park and Rainforest Walking Tour: $75
  • Ketchikan Duck Tour: $75
  • Ketchikan, Alaska Native Cultural and Wildlife Adventure: $80
  • Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour: $85
  • From Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour: $85
  • 2.5 Hour Tour in Ketchikan on the Tongass Trolley: $85
  • Clarke's Custom Island Tour (up to 11 guests): $90
  • Wild Wolf Tour - 2 Hr: $92
  • 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour: $95
  • 2 Hour Custom Wildlife and Historical Tour: $100

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cincinnati $11
    Ketchikan $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Ketchikan

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ketchikan:

  • Distillery Tour and Signature Bottle Infusion Experience: $149
  • Distillery Tour with Infusion Class: $161


When comparing the travel costs between Cincinnati and Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan 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 Cincinnati Expensive? and Is Ketchikan Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Cincinnati and Ketchikan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Cincinnati or Ketchikan?

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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Ketchikan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cincinnati and Ketchikan. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cincinnati this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cincinnati is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 79°F (26°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Cincinnati usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C) 
    Ketchikan 58°F (15°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cincinnati as well as Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Cincinnati for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cincinnati is much warmer than Ketchikan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cincinnati averages around 58°F (15°C) in October, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Cincinnati usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C) 
    Ketchikan 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Ketchikan in the Winter?

Both Ketchikan and Cincinnati are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cincinnati in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ketchikan can be very cold during winter. Cincinnati can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cincinnati is much colder than Ketchikan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cincinnati in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 34°F (1°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In January, Cincinnati usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cincinnati 31°F (-0°C) 
    Ketchikan 34°F (1°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and Cincinnati during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Cincinnati is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 56°F (14°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cincinnati usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C) 
    Ketchikan 44°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Cincinnati

Cincinnati Ketchikan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 34°F (1°C) 14.9 inches (379 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 38°F (3°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm)
Mar 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 39°F (4°C) 10.6 inches (270 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 44°F (6°C) 11.3 inches (286 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 49°F (9°C) 9.3 inches (237 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 54°F (12°C) 8.2 inches (209 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 58°F (15°C) 7.6 inches (193 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 59°F (15°C) 11.1 inches (281 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm)
Oct 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 46°F (8°C) 22.9 inches (581 mm)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 40°F (4°C) 17.3 inches (441 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 36°F (2°C) 15.7 inches (398 mm)