A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key Largo vs. Glacier National Park for Families, Backpackers, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Glacier National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a beautiful, relaxed, and peaceful island. It's a quaint destination. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo 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.

Key Largo and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Glacier National Park than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Glacier National Park is better known for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Key Largo and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Also, Glacier National Park is famous for Going-to-the-Sun Road. Key Largo is well known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove.

How is Key Largo 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 Key Largo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Key Largo and Glacier National Park can be an enjoyable experience.

Key Largo may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Glacier National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Key Largo or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Key Largo is a moderate island for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

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

Is Key Largo or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Key Largo is notable for its resorts. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its luxury resorts.

Key Largo is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

With a selection of resorts, Glacier National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.


Is Key Largo or Glacier National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Key Largo is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Glacier National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Glacier National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Glacier National Park Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Key Largo is a popular place for its beaches. However, Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Key Largo is a good option for a beach vacation. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is great for hiking. However, Key Largo 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.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Glacier National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Glacier National Park More Beautiful?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Key Largo 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.

Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key Largo or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Key Largo is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Key Largo is a very family-friendly destination. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly island. 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.


Is Key Largo or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is great for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

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

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination 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.

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.


Is Key Largo or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Glacier National Park

Neither Key Largo or Glacier National Park are walkable places.

Key Largo is not a very walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key Largo and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glacier National Park than Key Largo 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 Glacier National Park.


  • How many days in Key Largo or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

In Key Largo, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find around the park of Glacier National Park. 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 Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key Largo. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Glacier National Park. 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 park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

Key Largo is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking park of Glacier National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

In Key Largo, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Glacier National Park 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Key Largo?

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

  • Key Largo Prices
    USA Prices
    Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key Largo $256
    Glacier National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $256, 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 Key Largo and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo 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 Key Largo


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Glacier National Park $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

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

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $104
    Glacier National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Driving Tour (7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Sunset Cruise: $60
  • Small Group Florida Keys Eco Tour by Boat: $60
  • Snorkel Tours to Shallow Coral Reefs at Pennekamp Underwater Park: $64
  • Sunset Cruise: $65
  • Boat Eco Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Mangroves and Manatees - Guided Kayak Eco Tour: $67
  • Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Adventure in Key Largo: $68
  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69

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
    Key Largo $24
    Glacier National Park $8.41


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Key Largo Expensive? and Is Glacier National Park Expensive?.