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

Should you visit Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Grand Teton National Park or Vernon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. You'll find world class beauty in Grand Teton National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Grand Teton National Park travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Grand Teton National Park and Vernon: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vernon than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vernon is better known for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Teton National Park is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails. Also, Vernon is famous for Davison Orchards Country Village.

How is Grand Teton National Park different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vernon and Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park or Vernon?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Vernon is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is the Food Better in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Vernon is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find respectable options in both Grand Teton National Park and Vernon.

Grand Teton National Park doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Most people don't head to Vernon specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Grand Teton National Park is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Vernon is not a resort destination.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Vernon is not a resort destination.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Grand Teton National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Grand Teton National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Vernon is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Vernon More Beautiful?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Grand Teton National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Grand Teton National Park as well. The park is filled with spectacular mountain peaks and dramatic landscapes that will take your breath away.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Vernon Better for Families?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Grand Teton National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Grand Teton National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Vernon is a family-friendly park. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Vernon Better for Couples?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Grand Teton National Park is terrific for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Grand Teton National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Grand Teton National Park is terrific for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Teton National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.


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

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Vernon is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Vernon a more walkable city?

Grand Teton National Park
Vernon

Grand Teton National Park and Vernon are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not a very walkable park. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

Vernon is generally not very walkable. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Grand Teton National Park?

How long in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Grand Teton National Park and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Vernon. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Grand Teton National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

Couples should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Vernon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park than Vernon 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 Teton National Park.


  • How many days in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Teton National Park. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the peaceful town of Vernon. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

Grand Teton National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Vernon. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Teton National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the impressive destination of Grand Teton National Park. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Vernon is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Grand Teton National Park $196
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Grand Teton National Park is $196, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Teton National Park and Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grand Teton National Park $79
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grand Teton National Park $158
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Grand Teton National Park and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Grand Teton National Park or Vernon? 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 Teton National Park


Hotels in Vernon


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 Teton National Park Hotel Prices and Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grand Teton National Park $52
    Vernon -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Grand Teton National Park or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon and Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park $80
    Vernon $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $165

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grand Teton National Park $43
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Grand Teton National Park: $17
  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $130
  • Via Ferrata Adventure at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: $273

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grand Teton National Park $19
    Vernon $13


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive? and Is Vernon Expensive?.