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

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Durango?

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 Grand Canyon National Park and Durango. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and gorgeous national park. Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Durango

Durango is a nature-filled, historic, and charming small town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Durango is a gorgeous place to visit. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums. See Durango travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park and Durango: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park. Although Grand Canyon National Park and Durango are both popular with visitors, Grand Canyon National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and impressive beauty, while Durango is known for its skiing, museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Durango and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. It is also home to the sunset views. Durango is popular for its historic narrow gauge railroad, its charming small town atmosphere, and its many family-friendly activities.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Durango?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Durango Better for Skiing?

Durango is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Durango to take advantage of their winter sports. Purgatory Ski Resort is about 20 minutes from town and it's a family-friendly mountain with beginner and intermediate runs. It's small, and geared specifically to the beginner and younger crowd.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Durango is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors come to town specifically to ride the Silverton & Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad. There's also the D&SNGRR Railroad Museum, and the Fish Hatchery and Wildlife Museum.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at decent restaurants in both Grand Canyon National Park and Durango.

Grand Canyon National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Durango. Most of the restaurants are casual and family-friendly, serving up burgers or sandwiches for a reasonable price. You'll also find some coffeeshops and even a few food trucks and international restaurants.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Durango Better for Nightlife?

Grand Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Durango is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Grand Canyon National Park. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Durango. It's a small town that attracts tourists mainly for its train, so you won't find much in the way of a nightlife scene.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Durango Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Durango 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.

Durango is not a resort destination.

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

Durango is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have a historic old town.

Durango is a good destination for visiting its old town. Filled with character, the downtown feels like you've stepped into a Western. The town has a long history as a mining and railroad community, which you can see throughout the historic area. It really feels like you're in the "Wild West."

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

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Durango Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Grand Canyon National Park and Durango, and they are excellent.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Durango. It's surrounded by plenty of natural beautiful and there is an endless supply of hikes in the region. Popular nearby hikes include Animas Mountain Trail, Falls Creek Trail, and Purgatory Trail.

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

Durango is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Durango is a good destination for shopping. The charming town has some boutiques that sell beautifully made Native American jewelry and other interesting items. There are also souvenir shops and other venues that target tourists specifically.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Durango More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and 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.

Durango is a beautiful place to visit, too. The town is surrounded by plenty of natural beauty.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Durango Better for Families?

Durango is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Durango is a very family-friendly destination. In the area you'll find ziplining, alpine slides, and plenty of outdoor areas to explore - and of course there's the railroad.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Durango Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for romance. However, Durango is lacking in good options 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!).

Most people don't think of Durango as a couple's destination. The town may not be the first romantic destination that comes to mind, but the railroad combined with wandering the downtown can make for a great couple's getaway.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Canyon National Park. 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 Durango. With plenty of parks and outdoor areas nearby, backpackers will have plenty of places to explore.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Durango. It's a small town with no real public transit options so a car is a must.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is a good destination for its walkability. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. 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.

Durango is generally not very walkable. While the Main Street through town is walkable, it's not as pedestrian-friendly as some small towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Durango Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Durango?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Grand Canyon National Park and Durango. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than in Durango. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Durango.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Durango 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 Grand Canyon National Park.

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Durango?

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.

Durango might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Grand Canyon National Park or Durango?

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.

Even though Durango is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Durango?

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.

Since Durango is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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. This small town offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Durango?

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.

Durango is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

When comparing the travel costs between Grand Canyon National Park and Durango, we can see that Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park Expensive? and Is Durango Expensive?.