A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. Ketchikan for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Nantucket or Ketchikan?

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 Nantucket and Ketchikan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Nantucket travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Nantucket and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Ketchikan is known for its hiking. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Nantucket different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Nantucket or Ketchikan.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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 Nantucket or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at fantastic restaurants in both Nantucket and Ketchikan.

Nantucket has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Ketchikan is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Is Nantucket or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

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 Nantucket or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Nantucket or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

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

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Ketchikan Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is renowned for hiking. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking. 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.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Nantucket is notable for shopping. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Nantucket is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ketchikan. 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.

Is Nantucket or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Nantucket and Ketchikan both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

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.

Is Nantucket or Ketchikan Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Ketchikan.

Nantucket is a very family-friendly destination. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Ketchikan is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Nantucket or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Nantucket is renowned for romance. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known 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.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

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

Nantucket is very good for its public transit. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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

Is Nantucket or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Nantucket and Ketchikan are very good when it comes to walkability.

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nantucket and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nantucket than in Ketchikan. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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

One day in Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Ketchikan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ketchikan has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the quaint destination of Ketchikan. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint town of Ketchikan. 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 Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Ketchikan 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Ketchikan?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Ketchikan?

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 Nantucket or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Nantucket during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

Nantucket is a little warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 68°F (20°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nantucket usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantucket or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Ketchikan. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nantucket is a little warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nantucket in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nantucket usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nantucket or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ketchikan can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nantucket. In January, Nantucket is generally much colder than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 31°F (-0°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nantucket usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantucket or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nantucket in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Nantucket is a little warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In April, Nantucket usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Nantucket