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

Should you visit Detroit or Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon 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 under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping. See Detroit travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a striking, breathtaking, and stunning national park. Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Detroit and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
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 the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit. Although Detroit and Grand Canyon National Park are popular destinations, Detroit has more sights and attractions for tourists. Detroit is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit 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 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

Detroit is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Detroit is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Detroit. 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.

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 Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Detroit has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Music?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

Detroit is renowned for live music. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Detroit is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

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

With a selection of resorts, Grand Canyon National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

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

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

Detroit and Grand Canyon National Park are both nice 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 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 Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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!).

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon 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, Grand Canyon National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

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

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Detroit and Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Detroit
Grand Canyon National Park

Detroit and Grand Canyon National Park are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

Families should spend more time in Detroit than Grand Canyon 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.

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


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

One day in Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Detroit, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this under-rated destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Detroit, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer.

Five days in Detroit or Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Detroit. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Detroit. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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, Grand Canyon 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
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Detroit $165
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $165, 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 Detroit and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Detroit 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 Detroit


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $84

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

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.
    Detroit $21
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

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 Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • Express Grand Canyon Jeep Tour : $136
  • Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Hiking Tour • South Kaibab Trail: $179
  • Grand Canyon Day Hiking Private Below the Rim Tour: $689
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $199
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $187
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $170
  • Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Detroit and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.