A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ketchikan vs. Winnipeg for Food, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ketchikan or Winnipeg?

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

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a friendly, welcoming, and cultural city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Winnipeg travel costs.

Ketchikan and Winnipeg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Ketchikan or Winnipeg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Ketchikan and Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Ketchikan is more touristy than Winnipeg and is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also well known for the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Winnipeg is famous for its festivals, culture, and railway connections.

How is Ketchikan different from Winnipeg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

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

Many visitors head to Winnipeg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some unique museums around town including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Other popular museums are the Manitoba Museum and the Manitoba Children's Museum.

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 Winnipeg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Ketchikan is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Winnipeg area. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants around town that serve a mix of local dishes and international cuisines. A must-see part of the city is the historic Forks Market.

Is Ketchikan or Winnipeg Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Winnipeg is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Winnipeg. The city has an active nightlife, even during the winter months. You'll find dance clubs, bars, and pubs around town that are popular with locals and visitors alike.

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 Winnipeg Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Ketchikan is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

Around Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ketchikan or Winnipeg?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Both Ketchikan and Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town, from boutiques to big box shops and even some outlets.

Is Ketchikan or Winnipeg More Beautiful?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Ketchikan is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Winnipeg 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.

Winnipeg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ketchikan or Winnipeg Better for Families?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Ketchikan is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Winnipeg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Assiniboine Park Zoo or the Manitoba Children's Museum. There are a number of parks and playgrounds around town as well as the Prairie Dog Central Railway. There are many kid-friendly restaurants in the city as well.


Is Ketchikan or Winnipeg Better for Couples?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Ketchikan is great for its romantic activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Ketchikan is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Winnipeg is a good town for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy wandering through Assiniboine Park. There are also many romantic restaurants and spas for couples.

Is Ketchikan or Winnipeg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Both Ketchikan and Winnipeg are nice destinations for backpackers.

Ketchikan is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

It's common for backpackers to visit Winnipeg. While it's often overlooked by backpackers, there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Both Ketchikan and Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg. There's a bus system around town, but many visitors prefer to have a vehicle.


Is Ketchikan or Winnipeg a more walkable city?

Ketchikan
Winnipeg

Ketchikan is great for its high level of walkability. However, Winnipeg is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Winnipeg is generally not very walkable. While there are a few walkable neighborhoods, the city itself is not particularly walkable, particularly during the cold winter months.

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

Should I spend more time in Winnipeg or Ketchikan?

How long in Ketchikan or Winnipeg?

It's fun to spend time in either Ketchikan or Winnipeg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ketchikan than Winnipeg. 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 Ketchikan than Winnipeg 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 Ketchikan.


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

One day in Ketchikan or Winnipeg?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg?

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 museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Winnipeg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ketchikan or Winnipeg?

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.

Winnipeg is a popular choice for travelers. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ketchikan $259
    Winnipeg $255

The average daily cost (per person) in Ketchikan is $259, while the average daily cost in Winnipeg is $255. 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 Winnipeg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ketchikan $136
    Winnipeg $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ketchikan $272
    Winnipeg $184
Compare Hotels in Ketchikan and Winnipeg

Looking for a hotel in Ketchikan or Winnipeg? 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 Winnipeg


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: Winnipeg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ketchikan $39
    Winnipeg -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Winnipeg

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

  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport to Winnipeg Accommodation : $37
  • Winnipeg accomodation to Winnipeg Airport (YWG) - Departure Private Transfer: $83
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg Hotels: $97
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Hotels to Winnipeg Airport (YWG): $97
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $165
  • Winnipeg One way Private transfer from/to the Airport: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Ketchikan or Winnipeg?

Prices for flights to both Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg $9.33
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ketchikan $46
    Winnipeg $2.52
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 Winnipeg

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

  • The Forks Historic Site: a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Manitoba Legislative Grounds: Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Winnipeg's Most Haunted: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour: $6.61
  • Winnipeg's Wealthy Beginnings: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.61
  • The Sights of South a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Discover Assiniboine Park with a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.61
  • Explore The Challenge of Moderninity with Walking Tours in Winnipeg, MB: $6.61
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Winnipeg by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Winnipeg MB: $11
  • Wonderful 3 Smartphone Audio Guided Walking Tours: $14
  • Winnipeg's Outdoor Secret Agent Audio Experience: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ketchikan $23
    Winnipeg -

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 comparing the travel costs between Ketchikan and Winnipeg, we can see that Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan Expensive? and Is Winnipeg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ketchikan or Winnipeg?

Winnipeg has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Ketchikan and Winnipeg, 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 Winnipeg?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ketchikan or Winnipeg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ketchikan as well as Winnipeg. Many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Winnipeg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ketchikan is cooler than Winnipeg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ketchikan in July average around 58°F (15°C), and Winnipeg averages at about 21°C (71°F).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in July than Winnipeg. Ketchikan gets 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ketchikan 58°F (15°C) 
    Winnipeg 21°C (71°F)

Should I visit Ketchikan or Winnipeg in the Autumn?

Both Winnipeg and Ketchikan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ketchikan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Winnipeg for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Ketchikan is generally around the same temperature as Winnipeg. Daily temperatures in Ketchikan average around 46°F (8°C), and Winnipeg fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. In October, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Winnipeg. Ketchikan gets 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ketchikan 46°F (8°C) 
    Winnipeg 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Ketchikan or Winnipeg in the Winter?

Both Winnipeg and Ketchikan during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Winnipeg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Winnipeg can be very cold. Ketchikan can be very cold during winter. Ketchikan is much warmer than Winnipeg in the winter. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 34°F (1°C) in January, and Winnipeg fluctuates around -17°C (2°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in January than Winnipeg. Ketchikan gets 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ketchikan 34°F (1°C) 
    Winnipeg -17°C (2°F)

Should I visit Ketchikan or Winnipeg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ketchikan and Winnipeg. The spring months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ketchikan is a little warmer than Winnipeg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ketchikan in April average around 44°F (6°C), and Winnipeg averages at about 5°C (42°F).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Winnipeg. Ketchikan gets 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ketchikan 44°F (6°C) 
    Winnipeg 5°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Winnipeg and Ketchikan

Ketchikan Winnipeg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 34°F (1°C) 14.9 inches (379 mm) -17°C (2°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Feb 38°F (3°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm) -14°C (8°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 39°F (4°C) 10.6 inches (270 mm) -6°C (22°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Apr 44°F (6°C) 11.3 inches (286 mm) 5°C (42°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 49°F (9°C) 9.3 inches (237 mm) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 54°F (12°C) 8.2 inches (209 mm) 19°C (65°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jul 58°F (15°C) 7.6 inches (193 mm) 21°C (71°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 59°F (15°C) 11.1 inches (281 mm) 20°C (68°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 54°F (12°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm) 14°C (57°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 46°F (8°C) 22.9 inches (581 mm) 7°C (45°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Nov 40°F (4°C) 17.3 inches (441 mm) -3°C (26°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 15.7 inches (398 mm) -13°C (9°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)