A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Grand Canyon National Park vs. Toronto for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto?

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 Toronto. 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Toronto travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park and Toronto: Pros and Cons

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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toronto. Although Grand Canyon National Park and Toronto are both popular with visitors, Toronto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Toronto is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Toronto and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Toronto is popular for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also home to the CN Tower.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Toronto is renowned for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Toronto from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Toronto is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

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 Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Toronto is renowned for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Toronto is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

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 Toronto Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

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

Toronto is not a resort destination.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Grand Canyon National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Toronto is renowned for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Toronto. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto Better for Families?

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Toronto 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.

Toronto is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

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 Toronto Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for romance. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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!).

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Toronto 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.

Toronto is a great national park to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto Better for Students?

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Toronto is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Toronto is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Toronto is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Toronto has a great public transit system. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto a more walkable city?

Grand Canyon National Park
Toronto

Toronto is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Toronto is very walkable. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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.


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

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

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto?

Both Grand Canyon National Park and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Toronto than in Grand Canyon National Park. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toronto than Grand Canyon 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 Toronto.


  • How many days in Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4 
    Toronto 3-7

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto?

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.

Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Toronto?

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.

Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto?

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.

Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.


A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto?

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.

Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


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 Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Toronto or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

  • Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Toronto Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Grand Canyon National Park $203
    Toronto $249

The average daily cost (per person) in Grand Canyon National Park is $203, while the average daily cost in Toronto is $249. 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 Grand Canyon National Park and Toronto in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
    Toronto $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
    Toronto $172
Compare Hotels in Grand Canyon National Park and Toronto

Looking for a hotel in Grand Canyon National Park or Toronto? 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 Grand Canyon National Park


Hotels in Toronto


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grand Canyon National Park $43
    Toronto $32

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Toronto

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Toronto are as follows:


  • Airport Shuttle
    $26
  • Train: 2 Day Passes
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toronto

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

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Toronto APT-HTL (YYZ): $111
  • Transfer from Toronto City Center to Pearson Airport(YYZ): $53
  • Transfer from Pearson Airport(YYZ) to Toronto City Center: $53
  • Transfer Toronto,Canada (Downtown) to Niagara on the Lake,Canada: $177
  • Transfer Toronto,Canada (Downtown) to Niagara Falls, Canada: $177
  • Transfer Toronto Pearson International Airport YYZ to Niagara-on-the-Lake,Canada: $160
  • Transfer Toronto Pearson International Airport YYZ to Niagara Falls, Canada: $160
  • Transfer Toronto Hotels to Toronto Pearson Airport YYZ: $41
  • Shuttle Transfer Between Downtown and Niagara Falls: $112
  • Private Transfer to Niagara Falls: $176
  • Private Transfer to Niagara Falls: $155
  • Private Transfer to Kingston City or Queen's Unive…: $816

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

Prices for flights to both Toronto and Grand Canyon National Park 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $84
    Toronto $112

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

Typical Food Prices in Toronto

For Toronto, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch at St. Lawrence Market for Two
    $23
  • Dinner at Mill Street Brewery (for 2)
    $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toronto

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

  • Premium Harbor Cruise with Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner: $46
  • Great White North Food Tour: $54
  • Great White North Toronto Food Tour: $55
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery: $61
  • Toronto Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Toronto Premier Dinner Cruise on Odyssey in Toronto Harbour: $66
  • St Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $71
  • Kensington Market 'Taste the World' Food Tour: $72
  • Must-Do Toronto Food Tour by Toronto's First Food Tour Company: $73
  • St Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $78
  • French Bistro Cooking Class in Toronto (Includes 3-Course Meal): $80
  • Niagara Falls Evening Tour with Boat, Journey, Dinner & Fireworks: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grand Canyon National Park $35
    Toronto $31

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Toronto

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Toronto's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Gallery of Ontario for Two
    $15
  • CN Tower at night for Two
    $36
  • Harbour Dinner Cruise
    $26
  • Bata Shoe Museum (2)
    $7.26

Tours and Activities in Toronto

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

  • Casual Tour of Toronto by Land, Sky and Sea: $111
  • 1 Day City Sightseeing Tour at Toronto City: $69
  • 1-Hour Private Guided Photography Tour in Toronto: $296
  • 1-Hour Toronto Harbour Tour with Live Narration: $25
  • 14-Minute Helicopter Tour Over Toronto: $240
  • 3hr Shared Sailing Adventure: $177
  • 60-Minute Toronto Sightseeing Harbour Tour: $28
  • 7-Minute Helicopter Tour over Toronto: $135
  • Action Film and Television Locations Half Day Tour in Toronto: $150
  • Admission Ticket: Explore Canada in Miniature Scale: $33
  • Algonquin Park Hiking: Adventure Tour from Toronto: $151
  • Algonquin Park and Ragged Falls Hike and Canoe Adventure: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grand Canyon National Park $11
    Toronto $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Toronto

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toronto:

  • Distillery District Historic Walking Tour: $20
  • Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting: $25
  • Illuminarium Toronto in the Distillery District: $26
  • Distillery & Old Town Private Walking Tour: $28
  • Short Distillery District Segway Tour: $35
  • 30-Minute Distillery District Segway Tour: $36
  • Toronto Distillery & Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide: $42
  • Toronto Distillery District Self-Guided Walking Tour: $43
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $44
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $44
  • Distillery District Breakfast Walking Tour: $53
  • Distillery District Breakfast Tour: $54


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

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 Toronto Expensive?.