A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ketchikan vs. Rapid City for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Ketchikan or Rapid City?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Ketchikan and Rapid City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Rapid City

Rapid City is a fascinating, activity-filled, and friendly city. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Rapid City travel costs.

Ketchikan and Rapid City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to Mount Rushmore
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Ketchikan or Rapid City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Ketchikan and Rapid City are popular destinations, Ketchikan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ketchikan is very popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Rapid City attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Ketchikan is famous for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also well known for the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Rapid City is famous for its proximity to Mount Rushmore and many other iconic parks.

How is Ketchikan different from Rapid City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rapid City and Ketchikan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ketchikan or Rapid City?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Rapid City is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rapid City that are not to be missed. You'll find a wide variety of museums and landmarks nearby. Popular places to visit that aren't far from town include the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs, the South Dakota Air & Space Museum, and the Journey Museum & Learning Center. There's also the Museum of Geology and the National Presidential Wax Museum. And of course, there's the iconic Mount Rushmore.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.


Is the Food Better in Ketchikan or Rapid City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Ketchikan is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Rapid City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Ketchikan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Rapid City area. You'll find local restaurants in town that serve local specialties such as chislic (grilled meat), fry bread, and walleye (a local fish.

Is Ketchikan or Rapid City Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Evening events are reasonable in both Ketchikan and Rapid City.

Most people don't head to Ketchikan specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Rapid City. You'll find some places with live music and good drinks, but the city isn't really known for its nightlife scene.

Is Ketchikan or Rapid City Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Ketchikan is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Rapid City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Rapid City. The region is filled with national parks, state parks, and natural areas with wonderful hiking trails. You don't have to travel far to get into nature and experience some of South Dakota's best natural beauty.


Is the Shopping Better in Ketchikan or Rapid City?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Both Ketchikan and Rapid City are nice shopping destinations.

Ketchikan is a great destination for shopping. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Rapid City. Rapid City has some interesting local shops as well as larger malls and shopping centers.

Is Ketchikan or Rapid City More Beautiful?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Ketchikan is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Rapid City is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Rapid City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ketchikan or Rapid City Better for Families?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Rapid City is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Rapid City is one of the most popular family destinations. Nearby national parks and outdoor activities, this is the perfect base for exploring the area with kids. Nearby you'll find the Big Thunder Gold Mine, which has tours and lets you pan for gold, and Custer State Park, which is filled with wildlife. Wall Drug is worth a stopoff, as is Dinosaur Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Ketchikan is very family-friendly. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.


Is Ketchikan or Rapid City Better for Couples?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Both Ketchikan and Rapid City are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

Rapid City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the amazing national parks in the area and the easy access to iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore. There are many opportunities for wildlife spotting as well as great hiking trails and unique landscapes.

Is Ketchikan or Rapid City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Rapid City is notable for backpackers. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Rapid City. Backpackers will appreciate the surrounding natural beauty and the nearby national parks.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Is Ketchikan or Rapid City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Both Ketchikan and Rapid City offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Rapid City. While there are a few buses, this isn't a realistic option for traveling through the region.


Is Ketchikan or Rapid City a more walkable city?

Ketchikan
Rapid City

Ketchikan is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Rapid City is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Ketchikan is a very walkable town. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

Rapid City is generally not very walkable. While the downtown is walkable, most visitors use the city as a base for exploring the surrounding areas, and this requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Ketchikan Worth Visiting? and Is Rapid City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rapid City or Ketchikan?

How long in Ketchikan or Rapid City?

It's fun to spend time in either Ketchikan or Rapid City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Rapid City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ketchikan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Rapid City.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ketchikan than Rapid City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ketchikan that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rapid City than Ketchikan 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 Rapid City.


  • How many days in Ketchikan or Rapid City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ketchikan 1-3 
    Rapid City 2-4

One day in Ketchikan or Rapid City?

With museums and food around the scenic town of Ketchikan, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ketchikan, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Rapid City. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Ketchikan or Rapid City?

With food and shopping around the destination of Ketchikan, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

You'll find museums and food around the fascinating destination of Rapid City. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Ketchikan or Rapid City?

Ketchikan, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fascinating city of Rapid City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ketchikan or Rapid City?

Ketchikan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rapid City 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Rapid City or Ketchikan?

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

  • Ketchikan Prices
    USA Prices
    Rapid City Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ketchikan $259
    Rapid City $133

The average daily cost (per person) in Ketchikan is $259, while the average daily cost in Rapid City is $133. 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 Ketchikan and Rapid City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ketchikan $136
    Rapid City $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ketchikan $272
    Rapid City $120
Compare Hotels in Ketchikan and Rapid City

Looking for a hotel in Ketchikan or Rapid City? 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 Ketchikan


Hotels in Rapid City


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: Rapid City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ketchikan $39
    Rapid City $53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

Is it cheaper to fly into Ketchikan or Rapid City?

Prices for flights to both Rapid City and Ketchikan 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
    Ketchikan $92
    Rapid City $41
Typical Food Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of dining costs in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Slice of Pie & Drink
    $5.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ketchikan

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ketchikan.

  • Alaskan Salmon Cooking Class & Dining Experience: $179

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rapid City

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

  • Roller Coaster Tickets with Dinner and Show in Rapid City: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ketchikan $46
    Rapid City $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Ticket to Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    $35
  • Duck Tour (one person)
    $38
  • Bear Viewing Tour
    $83

Tours and Activities in Ketchikan

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

  • “OVER THE TOP TOURS” city highlights, wildlife and more!: $100
  • 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour: $95
  • 2 Hour Custom Wildlife and Historical Tour: $100
  • 2 Hour Private Tour with locals ( Price up to 5): $300
  • 2 hr Private Custom Tour of Ketchikan (14 people) Wildlife + More: $250
  • 2.5 Hour Tour in Ketchikan on the Tongass Trolley: $85
  • 3 Hour Rainforest Walk & Totem Park Wild Wolf Tours: $125
  • Adventure Kart Expedition- Ketchikan, AK: $282
  • Alaska Bigfoot Adventures: $149
  • Alaska Historical Tour with Cruise Hike and Cultural Immersion: $260
  • Alaska Wildlife Safari and Sightseeing Tour: $137
  • Alaska Wildlife Waterfall Tours: $100

Tours and Activities in Rapid City

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

  • Mount Rushmore Self-Guided Audio Tour Guide : $15
  • Mount Rushmore Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: $20
  • Mount Rushmore Theodore Roosevelt and Badlands Self-Guided Tour: $33
  • Pinnacle Zipline Tour in Keystone: $125
  • Guided Tour with Journey Museum Admission: $148
  • Rapid City Shared Tour: $148
  • From Mt. Rushmore Memorial Tour: $148
  • Mount Rushmore Memorial Shared Tour from Rapid City, South Dakota: $148
  • Black Hills Tour with Monument Tour: $179
  • From Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Tour: $185
  • Mt Rushmore Night Ceremony and Tour - with Tunnels and Stargazing: $189

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ketchikan $23
    Rapid City $6.93

Sample the Local Flavors in Ketchikan

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ketchikan:

  • Distillery Tour and Signature Bottle Infusion Experience: $149
  • Distillery Tour with Infusion Class: $161


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ketchikan Expensive? and Is Rapid City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ketchikan or Rapid City?

Rapid City has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Ketchikan and Rapid City, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.