A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Memphis vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Memphis

Memphis is a soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and museums. See Memphis travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a striking, breathtaking, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Memphis and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Memphis than Grand Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Memphis is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Canyon National Park and Memphis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Memphis. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Memphis has a large number of nightlife venues. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

Grand Canyon National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Music?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis is renowned for live music. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Memphis is known as a music capital around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Grand Canyon National Park for the hiking trails. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis and Grand Canyon National Park are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Memphis offers lots of family activities. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Grand Canyon National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.


Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Memphis is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis and Grand Canyon National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Public transit is generally limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.


Is Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Memphis
Grand Canyon National Park

Memphis and Grand Canyon National Park are notable when it comes to walkability.

Memphis is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

For even more information, also check out Is Memphis Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Memphis than Grand Canyon National Park 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 Memphis.


  • How many days in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Memphis, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this laid-back destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Memphis, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer.


Five days in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Memphis. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the city of Memphis. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Canyon National Park or Memphis?

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

  • Memphis Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Memphis $199
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $199, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $203. 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 Memphis and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Grand Canyon 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 Memphis


Hotels in Grand Canyon 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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $171

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Memphis 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
    Memphis $74
    Grand Canyon National Park $84
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner included: $170

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour: $88
  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis: $15
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Elvis Presley's Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis: $102
  • From Elvis Presley Birthplace and Park Guided Tour: $215
  • From Official Elvis Birthplace Tour of Tupelo: $102
  • Guided Memphis City Tour that includes Riverboat Cruise: $85
  • Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour: Memphis Beyond Beale: $33
  • Memphis 2-Hour Historic Walking Tour: Beyond Beale: $33
  • Memphis 3.5h Walking Tour with Beale Street & Sun Studio: $175

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • Express Grand Canyon Jeep Tour : $136
  • Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Hiking Tour • South Kaibab Trail: $179
  • Grand Canyon Day Hiking Private Below the Rim Tour: $689
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $199
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $187
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $170
  • Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Grand Canyon National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Memphis:

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $31
  • Guided Bar Crawl on a Pedal Bike: $40
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • #1 Way To See Beale Street, Bar Crawl and Murals: $430


When comparing the travel costs between Memphis and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Grand Canyon National Park 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 Memphis Expensive? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.