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

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver?

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 Vancouver. 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. Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a outdoorsy, scenic, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Vancouver travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vancouver. Although Grand Canyon National Park and Vancouver are both popular with visitors, Vancouver has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vancouver is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Vancouver and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Vancouver is popular for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Stanley Park.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

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

Travelers visit Vancouver from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Vancouver 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 Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

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 Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

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

Vancouver has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

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 Vancouver Better for Resorts?

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

Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Vancouver is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

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

Vancouver 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 Vancouver. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

The beauty of Vancouver is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver Better for Families?

Vancouver 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.

Vancouver is a very family-friendly destination. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

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 Vancouver Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park and Vancouver both terrific destinations for a couple.

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!).

Vancouver makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Vancouver is a great national park to visit for backpackers. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit Vancouver. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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

Vancouver 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.

Vancouver has a great public transit system. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

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 Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is renowned for its walkability. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vancouver. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver?

In either Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver than Grand Canyon National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver 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 Vancouver.

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver?

You'll find around the national park of Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Vancouver has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Vancouver?

You'll find around the world-renowned destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Each neighborhood in Vancouver has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking national park of Grand Canyon National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Vancouver has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Vancouver?

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful city of Vancouver. 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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 Vancouver Expensive?.