A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Ketchikan for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Key West or Ketchikan?

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

Should I visit Key West or Ketchikan? 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.

Key West

Key West is a quirky, eclectic, and bustling town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Key West and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Ketchikan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Ketchikan are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Ketchikan attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Ketchikan and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Ketchikan is famous for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Key West different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

For foodies, Ketchikan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Is Key West or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

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

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Ketchikan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

Key West is notable for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Ketchikan Better for its Old Town?

Key West is notable for its historic old town. However, Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

People visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Ketchikan offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Key West and Ketchikan are somewhat similar when it comes to the great scenery.

The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

With stunning beauty, Ketchikan attracts visitors from all around. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Is Key West or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Ketchikan.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Ketchikan. 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 Key West or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Ketchikan make for a great place to visit.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Ketchikan makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Key West or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Ketchikan Better for Students?

Key West is notable for students. However, Ketchikan is not popular with students.

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Ketchikan is not popular with students.

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

Ketchikan is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Key West?

How long in Key West or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Ketchikan. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ketchikan than Key West 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.

One day in Key West or Ketchikan?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West. 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.

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.

A weekend in Key West or Ketchikan?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the lively destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Key West or Ketchikan?

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

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.

A week in Key West or Ketchikan?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Ketchikan?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Ketchikan, 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 Key West or Ketchikan?

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 Key West or Ketchikan in the Summer?

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

In July, Key West is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

Key West is much warmer than Ketchikan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Ketchikan in the Winter?

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

Ketchikan can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Ketchikan in the Spring?

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

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Key West usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Key West