A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Glacier National Park for Backpackers, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Glacier National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a cultural, historical, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Guadalajara travel costs.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. Many visitors also come to Glacier National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Glacier National Park travel costs.

Guadalajara and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
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 Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Guadalajara than Glacier National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Guadalajara is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Glacier National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Guadalajara and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Guadalajara is well known for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals. Also, Guadalajara is famous for the Guadalajara Cathedral.

How is Guadalajara different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Guadalajara is notable for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

Guadalajara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It's a city that's filled with culture and history, with many impressive landmarks such as the Guadalajara Cathedral. Also make sure you visit the Instituto Cultural de Cabañas, Expiatory Temple, the Government Palace, and the Regional Museum of Guadalajara.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


Is the Food Better in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Guadalajara is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Guadalajara makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine uses some key ingredients such as corn tortillas, chilis, and beans. You'll find a lot of street food which includes tacos and tortas as well as restaurant dishes like birria (meat stew), pozole (hominy soup), and fish ceviche.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Guadalajara is notable for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

Guadalajara has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city comes to life at night. You'll find vibrant dance clubs, live music, and traditional bars. The craft beer scene has also grown in recent years. The most active areas are around Chapultepec Avenue and Zapopan.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Guadalajara is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a few great resort options. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Guadalajara is not a resort destination.


Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Guadalajara is notable for its historic old town. However, Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Guadalajara. The city center is filled with Spanish colonial architecture. With a walking tour you will find baroque, neoclassical, renaissance, and Gothic style buildings that highlight the city's long running past and rich history.

Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is great for hiking. However, Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Glacier National Park for the hiking trails. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Guadalajara is notable for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Guadalajara is an extremely popular place for shoppers. One of the best shopping streets is Avenida Juarez. A must-see stop is also the large indoor market of Mercado Libertad. You'll also find shopping centers and retail outlets around town.

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


Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park More Beautiful?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Guadalajara is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Glacier National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

Guadalajara is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Glacier National Park offers lots of family activities. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Guadalajara is not the most family-friendly destination. While it's not the most popular destination for families, those who visit will enjoy exploring the nature parks or amusement parks.

Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is great for couples. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Glacier National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

Guadalajara is a nice destination for couples. It's filled with nice architecture, a vibrant nightlife scene, and great urban parks, making it a nice and romantic destination for couples.


Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Glacier National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Guadalajara. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels around town.

Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Guadalajara and Glacier National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Guadalajara. There's a bus system as well as a metro system with two lines, which are primarily used by commuters.

Public transit is generally limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

Is Guadalajara or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Glacier National Park

Guadalajara is notable for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

Guadalajara is very walkable. The city center is pedestrian-friendly. This is also where you'll find most of the sights.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable city. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is Glacier National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Guadalajara and Glacier National Park. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Guadalajara than Glacier 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 Guadalajara.


  • How many days in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Guadalajara 2-3 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

In Guadalajara, you'll find shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning park of Glacier National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Guadalajara. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the gorgeous destination of Glacier National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

Guadalajara is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The stunning park of Glacier National Park offers . 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Guadalajara. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Glacier National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Guadalajara?

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

  • Guadalajara Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Guadalajara $138
    Glacier National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Guadalajara is $138, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $148. 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 Guadalajara and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $38
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $76
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara or Glacier National Park? 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 Guadalajara


Hotels in Glacier National Park


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: Guadalajara Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Guadalajara $35
    Glacier National Park $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Guadalajara

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

  • Transfer by car to or from Guadalajara Airport: $35
  • Transfer from International Airport to Tequila Jalisco: $89
  • Tequila to Guadalajara Airport (GDL) - Departure Private Transfer: $101
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $107
  • Private Airport Transfer to Guadalajara Hotels Safe & Stress-Free: $159
  • Guadalajara to Tequila - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $179
  • Tequila to Guadalajara - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $179
  • Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Tequila - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $202
  • Guadalajara Airport Private Transfer to Ajijic & Chapala: $289

Is it cheaper to fly into Guadalajara or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Guadalajara 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
    Guadalajara $75
    Glacier National Park $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Guadalajara

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

  • Private Street Food Tour and City Tour Guadalajara - Best Rated : $44
  • Guadalajara Private Food Tour: $70
  • Authentic Mexican Cooking & Tequila tasting experience-Casa Humo: $108
  • Mexican Cooking Classes and Market Visit in Guadalajara: $195
  • VIP Tequila Night Tour with Dinner and Tasting: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Guadalajara $25
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Guadalajara

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Guadalajara.

  • Bar Tour of the Coolest Quarter of Guadalajara: $17
  • Great Experience With A Tour Guide With Spark: $21
  • Guadalajara City Center Walking Tour: $25
  • Guadalajara Tour: $27
  • 3 Hours Private Tour Guide in Guadalajara, you choose!: $36
  • Walking Tour Historic Center Guadalajara: $39
  • Lucha Libre Tour at the Arena Coliseo de Guadalajara as a local: $39
  • Chapala Ajijic Area Tour from Guadalajara: $40
  • Tequila Route Experience from Guadalajara: $40
  • Classic Tequila Tour and CANTARITOS EL GÜERO: $41
  • Guadalajara Private Walking Tour: $42
  • History and Murals: Walking Tour Guadalajara: $44

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $250
  • Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure: $219
  • Driving Tour West Glacier National Park (excludes Sun Road): $245
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $250
  • E Bike Tour in Glacier National Park Cammas Road: $229
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $159
  • Fun and Romantic Pottery Experience for Couples: $275
  • Glacier National Park Going-to-the-Sun Road Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park North Fork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $16
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Many Glacier Self-Guided Audio Tour in Glacier National Park: $9.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $16
    Glacier National Park $8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Guadalajara

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Guadalajara:

  • Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Guadalajara Mexico: $25
  • Tequila distillery experience, Jose Cuervo & Tequila Magic Town: $65
  • full day Tequila tour visiting artisanal distillery and downtown.: $95
  • Guided Tour of Guachimontones and Tequila Distillery: $105
  • Full-Day Tour to La Fortaleza Distillery and Cantaritos: $155
  • Private Adventure Day Tour to Tequila and Cazcanes Distillery: $156
  • Private Adventure to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila: $161
  • Private One Day Adventure Tour in Tequila and La Fortaleza Distillery: $167
  • Private Tour Cascahuin Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour one day in Guachimontones and La Fortaleza Distillery: $211
  • Guachimontones and Tequila Distillery in One Day: $264


When comparing the travel costs between Guadalajara and Glacier National Park, we can see that Glacier 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 Guadalajara Expensive? and Is Glacier National Park Expensive?.


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