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

Should you visit New Orleans or Ketchikan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Ketchikan 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.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant, energetic, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See New Orleans travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Ketchikan travel costs.

New Orleans and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New Orleans. Although New Orleans and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, New Orleans has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New Orleans is more popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Ketchikan is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Ketchikan and is popular for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also home to The French Quarter. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Orleans or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both New Orleans and Ketchikan both to be amazing destinations.

Many restaurants in New Orleans have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Eat your way through Ketchikan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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 New Orleans or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is renowned for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

New Orleans is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

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 New Orleans or Ketchikan Better for Music?

New Orleans is renowned for live music. However, Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

New Orleans is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Ketchikan Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans 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 New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Around Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a town with good options for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is New Orleans or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Ketchikan is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New Orleans or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Ketchikan is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Ketchikan is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Ketchikan is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is New Orleans or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

Ketchikan is a good town to visit for backpackers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is New Orleans or Ketchikan Better for Students?

New Orleans is very good for students. However, Ketchikan is not popular with students.

New Orleans is a good city to visit for students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Ketchikan is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both New Orleans and Ketchikan.

Public transit is mostly limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

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

Is New Orleans or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both New Orleans and Ketchikan. In our opinion, Ketchikan has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Ketchikan than New Orleans. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for New Orleans, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ketchikan than New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans or Ketchikan?

You'll find live music and food around the city of New Orleans. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the local town of Ketchikan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in New Orleans or Ketchikan?

You'll find food and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Ketchikan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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 New Orleans or Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the fun-filled city of New Orleans. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The scenic town of Ketchikan offers museums and food. 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 New Orleans or Ketchikan?

New Orleans is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Ketchikan. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between New Orleans and Ketchikan, we can see that New Orleans 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 New Orleans Expensive? and Is Ketchikan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Ketchikan?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans or Ketchikan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Ketchikan. Many visitors come to New Orleans in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

New Orleans is much warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the summer. New Orleans usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to New Orleans for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, New Orleans is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in New Orleans in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In October, New Orleans usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit New Orleans or Ketchikan in the Winter?

Both Ketchikan and New Orleans during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ketchikan in the winter. In January, New Orleans is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 51°F (11°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Ketchikan. The activities around the city are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

New Orleans is much warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the spring. New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, New Orleans usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and New Orleans