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

Should you visit Clearwater or Ketchikan?

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 Clearwater and Ketchikan. 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a relaxing, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Clearwater travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Clearwater and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Ketchikan is known for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Clearwater different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Clearwater 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 Clearwater specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

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 Clearwater or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Ketchikan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Clearwater has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Is Clearwater or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

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 Clearwater or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is notable for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Clearwater. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Ketchikan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is renowned for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Clearwater is a very popular vacation destination. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Ketchikan is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Ketchikan?

Both Clearwater and Ketchikan are good shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ketchikan. 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 Clearwater or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Ketchikan is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Ketchikan are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Ketchikan is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Clearwater or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Ketchikan both high quality destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Ketchikan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Clearwater or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is a good destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

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

Both Clearwater and Ketchikan offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

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

Is Clearwater or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is notable for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Ketchikan. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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

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

One day in Clearwater or Ketchikan?

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Clearwater. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and food around the scenic 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 Clearwater or Ketchikan?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful destination of Clearwater. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal 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 Clearwater or Ketchikan?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the outdoorsy coastal city of Clearwater. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

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 Clearwater or Ketchikan?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 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.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Clearwater Expensive? and Is Ketchikan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Ketchikan?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Clearwater is much warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Ketchikan. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Clearwater during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Clearwater is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Ketchikan. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ketchikan can be very cold. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Ketchikan. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

Clearwater is much warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Clearwater