A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Detroit vs. Denali National Park for Backpackers, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Detroit or Denali National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Denali 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a hardworking, overlooked , and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Detroit travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a rugged, spectacular, and epic park. Denali National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Detroit and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
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 Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Detroit or Denali National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Detroit than Denali National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Detroit is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Denali National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Denali National Park is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife. Detroit is well known for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. Also, Detroit is famous for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Detroit or Denali National Park?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Detroit is very good for its historical sights. However, Denali National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.


Is the Food Better in Detroit or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Detroit is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Denali National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Detroit has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Denali National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Detroit or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Detroit is a great city for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Detroit has something for everybody. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Detroit or Denali National Park Better for Music?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Detroit is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Denali National Park is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Detroit. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Denali National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Detroit or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Denali National Park makes a nice vacation spot. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Detroit or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Denali National Park?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Detroit is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Denali National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.


Is Detroit or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Denali National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Detroit or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Detroit and Denali National Park are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Detroit is a family-friendly city. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Denali National Park. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is Detroit or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Denali National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.


Is Detroit or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Denali National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

Is Detroit or Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Detroit and Denali National Park.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Public transit is generally limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Is Detroit or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Detroit
Denali National Park

Detroit is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

Denali National Park is not a walkable city. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.


For even more information, also check out Is Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Detroit or Denali National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Denali National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Detroit than Denali 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 Detroit.


  • How many days in Detroit or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Detroit 1-3 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Detroit or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Detroit. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Detroit has to offer.

In Denali National Park, you'll find . This park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Detroit or Denali National Park?

Detroit is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

In Denali National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Denali National Park has to offer.

Five days in Detroit or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Detroit for five days. You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Detroit. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Denali National Park is a great place to explore. 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 Detroit or Denali National Park?

The under-rated destination of Detroit offers museums and nightlife. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or Detroit?

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

  • Detroit Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Detroit $165
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $165, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. 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 Detroit and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Detroit or Denali 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 Detroit


Hotels in Denali 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: Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $183
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $155
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $108
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Detroit or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Detroit 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
    Detroit $76
    Denali National Park $98

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Secret Food Tour with Tastings: $80
  • Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City: $95
  • Detroit Flavors Food Tour: $150
  • Delicious in Detroit Food Tour: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Detroit $21
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt Interactive Walking Tour: $35
  • Best Detroit Walking Tour: $105
  • Best Downtown Detroit Historical Walking Tour: $100
  • Chauffeured Historic Tour of Detroit with Flexibility : $65
  • Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour : $65
  • Detroit Food Walking Tour: $159
  • Detroit Guided Pedicab Tour Explore the City in Comfort: $125
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $23
  • Detroit Private Sightseeing Tour with Daily Chauffeur: $3,000
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $11
  • Detroit's Hidden History Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $120

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Hiking Tour in Denali: $209
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in the Alaska Range - Denali Area: $199
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $190

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Denali National Park $12


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

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



When is the best time to visit Detroit or Denali National Park?

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 Detroit or Denali National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Denali National Park. Most visitors come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Denali National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Detroit is much warmer than Denali National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 74°F (24°C) in July, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In July, Detroit usually receives less rain than Denali National Park. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Detroit 74°F (24°C) 
    Denali National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Denali National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Denali National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Detroit because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Denali National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Denali National Park in the autumn. In the autumn, Detroit is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Detroit in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 32°F (0°C).

Detroit usually gets less rain in October than Denali National Park. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Detroit 54°F (12°C) 
    Denali National Park 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Denali National Park in the Winter?

Both Denali National Park and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Detroit this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Denali National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Denali National Park. It's quite cold in Detroit in the winter. In January, Detroit is generally much warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 25°F (-4°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 11°F (-12°C).

In January, Detroit usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C) 
    Denali National Park 11°F (-12°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Denali National Park in the Spring?

Both Denali National Park and Detroit during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Detroit for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Denali National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

Denali National Park can get quite cold in the spring. Detroit is much warmer than Denali National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 49°F (9°C) in April, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Detroit usually gets more rain in April than Denali National Park. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Detroit 49°F (9°C) 
    Denali National Park 34°F (1°C)

Typical Weather for Denali National Park and Detroit

Detroit Denali National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 11°F (-12°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Feb 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 16°F (-9°C) 1.4 inches (37 mm)
Mar 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 23°F (-5°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Apr 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
May 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 56°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (108 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 32°F (0°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Nov 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)


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