A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ketchikan vs. Whistler for Food, Hiking, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Ketchikan or Whistler?

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 Whistler can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and charming village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Whistler travel costs.

Ketchikan and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ketchikan or Whistler?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Whistler. Although Ketchikan and Whistler are both popular with visitors, Whistler has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Whistler is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, and resorts, while Ketchikan is known for its museums and attractions and food. Whistler is more touristy than Ketchikan and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to Cloudraker Skybridge. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Ketchikan different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Ketchikan or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is renowned for snow skiing. However, Ketchikan is not a skiing destination.

Whistler is among the world's best ski destinations. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Ketchikan is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ketchikan or Whistler?

Ketchikan is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Ketchikan is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Ketchikan is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Whistler has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Ketchikan or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is notable for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Whistler has plenty to do after the sun goes down. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. 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.

Is Ketchikan or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is notable for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Whistler. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Ketchikan or Whistler Better for Hiking?

You'll find terrific hiking in both Ketchikan and Whistler.

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.

Known for its hiking, Whistler draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Is the Shopping Better in Ketchikan or Whistler?

Both Ketchikan and Whistler are good 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 Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Ketchikan or Whistler More Beautiful?

Ketchikan and Whistler both are comparable with their excellent scenery and beauty.

Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Ketchikan or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler 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.

Whistler is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Whistler Better for Couples?

Both Ketchikan and Whistler are excellent 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.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Ketchikan or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler 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 Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Ketchikan and Whistler offer decent public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Ketchikan or Whistler a more walkable city?

Ketchikan and Whistler both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Whistler is a very walkable town. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Ketchikan?

How long in Ketchikan or Whistler?

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

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

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

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

One day in Ketchikan or Whistler?

The beautiful town of Ketchikan offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the village of Whistler. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Whistler?

Ketchikan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. 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, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the outdoorsy destination of Whistler. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ketchikan or Whistler?

Ketchikan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the outdoorsy village of Whistler. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

A week in Ketchikan or Whistler?

Ketchikan is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ketchikan or Whistler?

Whistler has a larger population, and is about 48% larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Ketchikan and Whistler, 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.

When is the best time to visit Ketchikan or Whistler?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ketchikan or Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler and Ketchikan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Whistler for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ketchikan is cooler than Whistler in the summer. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 58°F (15°C) in July, and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. In July, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Whistler. Ketchikan gets 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ketchikan or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Ketchikan during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Whistler in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Ketchikan is cooler than Whistler. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ketchikan in October average around 46°F (8°C), and Whistler averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in October than Whistler. Ketchikan gets 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ketchikan or Whistler in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ketchikan and Whistler. Many visitors come to Ketchikan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Whistler for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Whistler can be very cold during winter. Ketchikan can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Ketchikan is generally much colder than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Ketchikan average around 34°F (1°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the winter. Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Whistler. Ketchikan gets 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ketchikan or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ketchikan as well as Whistler. Most visitors come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Whistler because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Ketchikan is cooler than Whistler in the spring. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 44°F (6°C) in April, and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in April than Whistler. Ketchikan gets 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Ketchikan