A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Grand Canyon National Park vs. Kamloops for Couples, Backpackers, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops?

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 Kamloops. 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 breathtaking, stunning, and world-renowned 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.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and laid-back city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Kamloops travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park. Although Grand Canyon National Park and Kamloops are popular destinations, Grand Canyon National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grand Canyon National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Kamloops and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. It is also well known for the sunset views. Kamloops is famous for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kamloops 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 Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Kamloops is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.

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

Kamloops is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Kamloops specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kamloops 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 Kamloops. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Kamloops is a good destination for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kamloops. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Grand Canyon National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Kamloops offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

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

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Kamloops. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops Better for Families?

Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is a very family-friendly destination. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

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 Kamloops Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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!).

Kamloops is a good national park for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in 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.

Kamloops is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's often overlooked by backpackers, but there is a hostel in town.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Grand Canyon National Park and Kamloops.

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 generally limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

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

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

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Grand Canyon National Park than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

Couples should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Kamloops. 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 Kamloops 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 Kamloops?

The beautiful national park of Grand Canyon National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kamloops, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this laid-back destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops?

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grand Canyon National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Kamloops, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife 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.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops?

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Kamloops?

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the city of Kamloops. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Grand Canyon National Park and Kamloops, we can see that Grand Canyon National Park is more expensive. And not only is Kamloops much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kamloops would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kamloops 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 Kamloops.

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 Kamloops Expensive?.