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

Should you visit Panama City or Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton 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. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Panama City travel costs.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a vast, spectacular, and impressive park. The famous beauty of Grand Teton National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Grand Teton National Park travel costs.

Panama City and Grand Teton 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Grand Teton National Park are popular destinations, Panama City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Panama City is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, beaches, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Panama City is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also well known for Pier Park. Grand Teton National Park is famous for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Panama City different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Panama City is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Panama City. 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 Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Panama City is a great beach town for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Panama City has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Music?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Panama City is a popular place for live music. However, Grand Teton 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Panama City is a great beach town for its beaches. However, Grand Teton 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Grand Teton National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Grand Teton National Park?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Panama City is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Panama City. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

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

Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park More Beautiful?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park is one of the main draws. The park is filled with spectacular mountain peaks and dramatic landscapes that will take your breath away.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Panama City is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Teton National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-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.

Grand Teton National Park is a very kid-friendly beach town. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.


Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an amazing park to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Grand Teton National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Panama City is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Panama City is a great beach town for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.


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

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Panama City is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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 limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Panama City or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Panama City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

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

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

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

How long in Panama City or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Panama City and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Panama City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Panama City than Grand Teton National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


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

One day in Panama City or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fun-filled beach town of Panama City. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive park of Grand Teton National Park. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Panama City. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast destination of Grand Teton National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Panama City or Grand Teton National Park?

Panama City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast park of Grand Teton National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or Grand Teton National Park?

Panama City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Teton National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this park.


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, Grand Teton 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
    Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Panama City $272
    Grand Teton National Park $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $272, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $196. 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 Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton 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 and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton 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
    Grand Teton National Park $80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $165

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Panama City

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

  • Big Kahuna Sunset Dolphin Cruise Experience: $55
  • 2 Hour Private Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour Shell Island: $70
  • 2 Hour Shell Island Jet Ski Dolphin Tour: $149
  • 2 Hours Shell Island Jet Ski Tour: $159
  • 3 Hour Tiki Boat Adventure: $55
  • 90 Minute Sunset Tiki Boat Tour: $45
  • Adventure Tour to Shell Island on the Privateer Catamaran: $65
  • Cruisin Tikis Shell Island Big Kahuna Beach and Snorkel Cruise: $70
  • Cypress Springs Eco Adventure: $130
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $40
  • Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour: $50
  • Original CRUISIN TIKIS 3 Hour Cruise, Snorkel, Swim/float Sandbar: $80

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Grand Teton National Park: $17
  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $130
  • Via Ferrata Adventure at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: $273

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Grand Teton National Park $19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Panama City and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Panama City is more expensive. And not only is Grand Teton National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Grand Teton National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.