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

Should you visit Newport 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 Newport and Ketchikan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newport

Newport is a coastal, seaside, and historical town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Newport travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a quaint, local, and scenic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Ketchikan attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Newport and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newport or Ketchikan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newport than Ketchikan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newport is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Ketchikan is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Newport is well known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Also, Newport is famous for Thames Street. Ketchikan is well known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Newport different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Newport is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Newport specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

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 Newport or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Ketchikan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Newport or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Newport 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 Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

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 Newport or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

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

Newport is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Newport or Ketchikan Better for its Old Town?

Newport 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 Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Is Newport or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

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.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Ketchikan?

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

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Ketchikan is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

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.

Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Is Newport or Ketchikan Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Ketchikan is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Newport or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Newport 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, Newport has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options 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.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

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

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

Newport has a few public transit options. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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

Is Newport or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

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

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Newport?

How long in Newport or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newport and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than in Ketchikan. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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

One day in Newport or Ketchikan?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Newport. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Ketchikan, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Newport or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Newport. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Ketchikan, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Ketchikan has to offer.

Five days in Newport or Ketchikan?

You'll find nightlife and food around the seaside town of Newport. 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 great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Ketchikan 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 Newport or Ketchikan?

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ketchikan. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Ketchikan. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Newport or Ketchikan?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Newport 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 Newport 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 Newport or Ketchikan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Newport as well as Ketchikan. The summer months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

In the summer, Newport is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newport in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 58°F (15°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Newport usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newport or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Newport this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Newport is generally a little warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 53°F (12°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In October, Newport usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newport or Ketchikan in the Winter?

Both Ketchikan and Newport during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 Newport. Newport is much colder than Ketchikan in the winter. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Newport usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newport or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Ketchikan. Many visitors come to Newport in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Newport is a little warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newport in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 44°F (6°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Newport usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Newport