A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Glacier National Park for Families, Couples, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Panama City or Glacier National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Glacier 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.

Panama City

Panama City is a fun-filled, active, and cosmopolitan beach town. Panama City is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Panama City travel costs.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a breathtaking, gorgeous, and stunning park. The famous beauty of Glacier National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Glacier National Park travel costs.

Panama City and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Glacier National Park. Although Panama City and Glacier National Park are popular destinations, Glacier National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Glacier National Park is very popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Panama City attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, music, beaches, and shopping. Panama City is famous for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Glacier National Park is famous for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. It is also well known for Going-to-the-Sun Road.

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

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

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Glacier National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Panama City
Glacier National Park

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

Panama City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

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 Panama City or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Panama City is notable for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

Panama City has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

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

Is Panama City or Glacier National Park Better for Music?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Panama City is a popular place for live music. However, Glacier National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Panama City is active and vibrant. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Glacier National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

With a similar set of options, nice resorts can be found in both Panama City and Glacier National Park.

With a selection of resorts, Panama City makes a nice vacation spot. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

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.

Is Panama City or Glacier National Park Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Panama City is notable for its beaches. However, Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Panama City is considered a top beach destination. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Panama City or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.


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

Panama City
Glacier National Park

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

Panama City is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

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 Panama City or Glacier National Park More Beautiful?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Glacier National Park is one of the main draws. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

Is Panama City or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Panama City is very popular 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Panama City is a very family-friendly destination. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly beach town. 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 Panama City or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Panama City and Glacier National Park are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Glacier National Park is a great beach town if you're traveling as 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.

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

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Glacier National Park. 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.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Panama City or Glacier National Park Better for Students?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

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

Panama City is a very popular beach town for students and younger travelers. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.


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

Panama City
Glacier National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and Glacier National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

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 Panama City or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Panama City
Glacier National Park

Neither Panama City or Glacier National Park are walkable places.

Panama City is not a walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

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

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

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

How long in Panama City or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Panama City and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Panama City than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Panama City or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Panama City 3-7 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Panama City or Glacier National Park?

In Panama City, you'll find food and shopping. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 gorgeous 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 Panama City or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Panama 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 stunning 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 Panama City or Glacier National Park?

Panama City is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach town. 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 Panama City or Glacier National Park?

In Panama City, you'll find live music and food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

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 from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


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

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

  • Panama City Prices
    USA Prices
    Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Panama City $272
    Glacier National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $272, 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 Panama City and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Panama 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 Panama 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: Panama City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Glacier National Park $69

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

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Panama 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
    Panama City $115
    Glacier National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Panama City

Here are a few actual costs in Panama City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Sunset Dolphin Cruise in St. Andrews Bay: $29
  • Panama City Beach Dolphin Sightseeing Sail: $35
  • Panama City Beach: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Combo Ticket: $37
  • Panama City Beach: Dolphin Sightseeing Trip by Catamaran: $38
  • Sunset Cruise with Good Jibez Only in Panama City Beach: $40
  • Shell Island Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour in Panama City Beach: $40
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $40
  • Panama City Beach: 90 Minute Sunset Tiki Boat Tour: $44
  • 90 Minute Sunset Tiki Boat Tour: $45
  • Panama City Beach: Shell Island Catamaran Snorkeling Tour: $49
  • Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour: $50
  • Original CRUISIN TIKIS 90 min Cruise - Grand Lagoon : $54

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Many Glacier Self-Guided Audio Tour in Glacier National Park: $9.99
  • 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
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $20
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $159
  • Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure: $219
  • E Bike Tour in Glacier National Park Cammas Road: $229
  • Driving Tour West Glacier National Park (excludes Sun Road): $245
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $250

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Glacier National Park $8.41


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