A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Juneau vs. Grand Teton National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Juneau or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Should I visit Juneau or Grand Teton National Park? 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.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. Many visitors also come to Juneau because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Juneau travel costs.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a vast, spectacular, and impressive park. You'll find world class beauty in Grand Teton National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Grand Teton National Park travel costs.

Juneau and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Juneau and Grand Teton National Park are popular destinations, Juneau has more sights and attractions for tourists. Juneau is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park attracts visitors for its resorts. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier. Grand Teton National Park is famous for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Juneau different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Juneau or Grand Teton National Park?

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Juneau is a great city for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Juneau offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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 Juneau or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Juneau is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Juneau. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Juneau or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Both Juneau and Grand Teton National Park are reasonable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Juneau specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Grand Teton National Park. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Juneau or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

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

Grand Teton National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Juneau is not a resort destination.


Is Juneau or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Juneau and Grand Teton National Park both have first-rate trails.

People visit Juneau specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Many people visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

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

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Juneau is a great city for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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 Juneau or Grand Teton National Park More Beautiful?

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Juneau and Grand Teton National Park are somewhat similar when it comes to the first-rate scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

Grand Teton National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The park is filled with spectacular mountain peaks and dramatic landscapes that will take your breath away.


Is Juneau or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Juneau or Grand Teton National Park.

Juneau is a very kid-friendly city. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Grand Teton National Park. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Is Juneau or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Juneau and Grand Teton National Park make for a first-rate place to visit.

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

For those traveling as a couple, Grand Teton National Park has plenty to offer. 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.

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

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.


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

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Juneau 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

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

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

Juneau
Grand Teton National Park

Juneau is a great city for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Juneau is very walkable. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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

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

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

How long in Juneau or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Juneau and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Juneau. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Juneau, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau than Grand Teton 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 Juneau.


  • How many days in Juneau or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Juneau 2-3 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Juneau or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the breathtaking city of Juneau. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

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.


A weekend in Juneau or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Juneau. 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. Most people visit for the hiking. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

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.

Five days in Juneau or Grand Teton National Park?

Juneau 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.

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.

A week in Juneau or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the vast 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Juneau?

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

  • Juneau Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Juneau $196
    Grand Teton National Park $196

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



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Juneau $88
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Juneau $176
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Juneau and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Juneau or Grand Teton 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 Juneau


Hotels in Grand Teton 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: Juneau Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Juneau $38
    Grand Teton National Park $52

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 Juneau or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Juneau 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
    Juneau $85
    Grand Teton National Park $80

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.
    Juneau $17
    Grand Teton National Park $43
Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Juneau are as follows:

  • 3 Hour Fishing Experience/Class in Juneau: $225
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau, Alaska: $189
  • 4-Hour Wildlife and Coastal Tour in Juneau, Alaska: $220
  • Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo: $145
  • Alpine Segway Wilderness Trail Adventure: $180
  • Alpine Zipline Adventure in Juneau, AK: $257
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $123
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $145
  • Historical Walking Tour of Abandoned Gold Rush Era City with AR: $99
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Juneau Highlights and Mendenhall Glacier Tour: $129

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
    Juneau $16
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Juneau

Also in Juneau, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Walking Pub Crawl in Downtown Juneau: $115
  • Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau's Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!: $159
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops: $159


When comparing the travel costs between Juneau and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Grand Teton 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 Juneau Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.