A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mexico City vs. Glacier National Park for Food, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Glacier National Park? 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.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a diverse, vibrant, and dynamic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Mexico City travel costs.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. Glacier National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Glacier National Park travel costs.

Mexico City and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
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 Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Glacier National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Mexico City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Glacier National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Mexico City that are not to be missed. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

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.


Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

For foodies, Mexico City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. 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 Mexico City or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is very popular for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

Mexico City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

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

Is Mexico City or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a few great resort options. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.


Is Mexico City or Glacier National Park Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Mexico City to see the historical old town. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Glacier National Park. 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.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is very popular for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Mexico City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

If you're looking to go shopping, Glacier National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.


Is Mexico City or Glacier National Park More Beautiful?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Glacier National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is notable 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.

Mexico City is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly city. 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 Mexico City or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Glacier National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Mexico City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.


Is Mexico City or Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Is Mexico City or Glacier National Park Better for Students?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is notable for students. However, Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

Mexico City is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

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

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is notable for its public transit. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Mexico City is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

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.


Is Mexico City or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Mexico City
Glacier National Park

Mexico City is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

Mexico City is generally not very walkable. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Glacier 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 Mexico City.


  • How many days in Mexico City or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mexico City 3-5 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning park of Glacier National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

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

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the gorgeous destination of Glacier National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

Mexico City is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The breathtaking park of Glacier National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant big city of Mexico City. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Glacier National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Mexico City?

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

  • Mexico City Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mexico City $212
    Glacier National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Mexico City is $212, 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 Mexico City and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mexico City $38
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mexico City $76
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Mexico City and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Mexico City 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 Mexico City


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: Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mexico City $12
    Glacier National Park $69
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Mexico City:


  • Metro
    $1.09
  • Uber Ride
    $3.80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

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

  • Inbursa Aquarium optional Round trip transfer: $20
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Mexico City: $27
  • Mexico City Private Airport Transfer : $29
  • Mexico to Mexico City Airport (MEX) Departure Arrival Transfer: $31
  • Mexico City International Airport (MEX) to Mexico City- Private Arrival Transfer: $31
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Mexico City Airport (MEX): $32
  • Transfer & assistance one-way from/to Mexico City Airport/hotel : $34
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Mexico City Airport: $34
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Mexico APT-HTL (MEX) : $36
  • Private Transfer From Mexico City Airport to Downtown: $40
  • Toluca Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Private Transfers from Airport to Hotel: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Mexico City or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Mexico City 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
    Mexico City $43
    Glacier National Park $49
Typical Food Prices in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $12
  • Coffee and Snacks
    $4.24
  • Dinner for 2
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mexico City

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

  • Private Street Food Tour Mexico City - Best rated : $35
  • Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
  • San Juan Market Food Tour Exotic Bites & Flavors: $52
  • Coyoacán Market Food Tour Urban Eats & Local Legends: $52
  • Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $53
  • Art and Food Tour with Lunch: $54
  • Tortilla Crawl: Food Tour in Mexico City: $55
  • Mexico City Vegan & Veggie Market Explorer plus Cooking Lesson: $55
  • Private Half-Day Traditional Markets Street Food Tour in Mexico City: $57
  • 3 Hours Food Tour Best Vegan Tacos in Mexico City: $61
  • Old Town Food Tour of 7 Tastings & Secret Dish: $66
  • Frida Kahlo Museum & Coyoacan Tacos & Food Tour: $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mexico City $14
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • CDMX: Museum of Memory and Tolerance - Children in Silence (Admission ticket): $1.36
  • Museum Memory and Tolerance-Children in Silence ticket entry: $1.45
  • MUCHO Museum of Chocolate Entrance Ticket: $4.36
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $5.13
  • Mexico City (Coyoacan) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $5.16
  • Flavors of the past: A Pre-Hispanic drink tour in Mexico city. : $5.59
  • Free Mexico City Centre Tour: $5.59
  • CDMX: Museum of Memory and Tolerance - Anne Frank (Entrance ticket): $6.81
  • Hidden Gems of Exploration Game and Tour: $7.51
  • La Roma's Famous Sights and Local Lore: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Double Decker Bus Night Tour: $8.17
  • Guided tour POR the Basilica DE Guadalupe with architect: $8.34

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
    Mexico City $19
    Glacier National Park $8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City

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

  • Guided Pub Crawl with Party Games: $23
  • Mexico City Pub Crawl: $23
  • Zona Rosa Pub Crawl Experience: $94
  • Teotihuacan´s Best Balloon Flight: Pyramids and Brewery tours : $120
  • Cavas Freixenet Wine Tour from Mexico City: $222
  • Private Cheese and Wine Tour to Queretaro: $479


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Glacier National Park, we can see that Mexico City 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 Mexico City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mexico City 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 Mexico City Expensive? and Is Glacier National Park Expensive?.