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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Ketchikan, 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.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Philadelphia and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Ketchikan are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Ketchikan attracts visitors for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ketchikan is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is notable for theatre. However, Ketchikan is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Ketchikan is not a theatre destination.

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

Ketchikan is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Is Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is notable for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for Music?

Philadelphia is notable for live music. However, Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is very good for its historic old town. However, Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Ketchikan draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

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

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Ketchikan is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

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.

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Philadelphia and Ketchikan are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Ketchikan is known to be 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 Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

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

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.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia and Ketchikan are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

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

Is Philadelphia or Ketchikan Better for Students?

Philadelphia is notable for students. However, Ketchikan is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is very popular with students. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Ketchikan is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Philadelphia is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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

Is Philadelphia or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is renowned for its walkability. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Ketchikan 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 Philadelphia.

One day in Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this local town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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.

Ketchikan is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the diverse city of Philadelphia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the local destination of Ketchikan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. 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 place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Ketchikan?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia or Ketchikan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Ketchikan. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Philadelphia is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 77°F (25°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

Philadelphia is much warmer than Ketchikan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In October, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Ketchikan in the Winter?

Both Ketchikan and Philadelphia during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ketchikan. It's quite cold in Philadelphia in the winter. In the winter, Philadelphia is much colder than Ketchikan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Philadelphia in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Philadelphia is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 52°F (11°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Philadelphia