A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland vs. Grand Teton National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Portland and Grand Teton National Park 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.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Portland is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Portland travel costs.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. Grand Teton National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Grand Teton National Park travel costs.

Portland and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portland. Although Portland and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Portland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portland is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and small town charm, while Grand Teton National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. It is also home to Washington Park. Grand Teton National Park is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Spend time exploring the decent sights and museums in either Portland or Grand Teton National Park.

While most people don't head to Portland specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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


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

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Both Portland and Grand Teton National Park offer decent local cuisine and restaurants.

Portland offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

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 Portland or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Portland is a popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland has a few options to choose from. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

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 Portland or Grand Teton National Park Better for Music?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Portland is a popular place for live music. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Portland or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Portland or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Grand Teton National Park visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Portland 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 Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

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 Portland or Grand Teton National Park More Beautiful?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Grand Teton National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The park is filled with spectacular mountain peaks and dramatic landscapes that will take your breath away.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Is Portland or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Portland or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.


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

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Portland or Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Portland is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

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

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Portland is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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


Is Portland or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Portland
Grand Teton National Park

Portland is a great city for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

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

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

How long in Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Portland and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Portland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Portland. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Grand Teton National Park 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 Portland.


  • How many days in Portland or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Portland 2-3 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the laid-back city of Portland. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

The beautiful park of Grand Teton National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Portland. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

Portland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grand Teton National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Teton National Park has to offer. This park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Portland?

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

  • Portland Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Portland $211
    Grand Teton National Park $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Portland is $211, 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 Portland and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portland $97
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portland $194
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Portland and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Portland 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 Portland


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: Portland Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portland $28
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

Also for Portland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Portland Airport (PDX) to Astoria Port: $226
  • Private Transfer from Astoria Cruise Port to Portland city hotels: $226
  • Private Transfer from Portland City Hotels to Astoria Cruise Port: $226
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Beaverton hotel to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Tigard hotel or address to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Arrival Private Transfer: $46

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 Portland or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Portland 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
    Portland $74
    Grand Teton National Park $80
Typical Food Prices in Portland

For Portland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

For Portland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Walking Food Tour – Warm Donuts & History: $57
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Westside Food Tour Like a Local: $90
  • Downtown Food Tour of 6 Local Favorites Dishes: $100
  • Portland Downtown Food Tour: 6 Tastings of Local & Global Flavors: $109
  • Alphabet District Food Tour: $119
  • 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River: $127
  • Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise: $127
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $128

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.
    Portland $25
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Portland

For Portland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-hour Brunch Cruise on Willamette River: $104
  • 2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River: $87
  • 7 Wonders of the Gorge 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise: $90
  • 90 Minute Sailing Tour of Portland: $99
  • A Guided Walking Tour of Vibrant Downtown Portland: $44
  • Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland: $85
  • Astoria Full Day Private Tour : $169
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Capture your Oregon Adventures in a Magical Place: $189
  • Coffee Roasters of Portland Eastside Walking Tour : $55
  • Coffee, Donuts & Chocolate Tour : $69
  • Columbia Gorge Waterfalls and Mt. Hood Tour - Full Day: $129

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
    Portland $17
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Power Through Portland Bar Crawl: $12
  • Private or Shared Party Bike Pub Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Oregon Priority Wine Tasting Pass: $40
  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $48
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $65
  • Fun Pasta Making Class at a Local Brewery in Portland: $75
  • Fun Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Portland: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $99
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Urban Wine Tasting Tour: $139


When comparing the travel costs between Portland and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Portland 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 Portland Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.