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

Should you visit Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Should I visit Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and hiking. See Roanoke travel costs.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. Many visitors also come to Grand Teton National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Grand Teton National Park travel costs.

Roanoke and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Roanoke than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Roanoke is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Teton National Park is more touristy than Roanoke and is known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Also, Roanoke is famous for the Roanoke Star.

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

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

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Roanoke is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

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 Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at respectable restaurants in both Roanoke and Grand Teton National Park.

Roanoke may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Grand Teton National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Roanoke 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 Roanoke has a few options to choose from. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

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 Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Grand Teton National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.


Is Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for hiking. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Roanoke is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

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

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Roanoke 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 Roanoke. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

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 Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park More Beautiful?

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Grand Teton National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The park is filled with spectacular mountain peaks and dramatic landscapes that will take your breath away.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Grand Teton National Park. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for couples. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Grand Teton National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

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

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Teton National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Roanoke is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.


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

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Roanoke 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 Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

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

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

Roanoke
Grand Teton National Park

Roanoke and Grand Teton National Park are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Roanoke is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

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 Roanoke Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Roanoke 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 Roanoke. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Roanoke, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

Families should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Roanoke. 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 Roanoke. 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 Grand Teton National Park than Roanoke 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 Grand Teton National Park.


  • How many days in Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Roanoke 1-3 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the laid back town of Roanoke. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Roanoke. 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.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park?

Roanoke 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Teton National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park?

Roanoke 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Teton National Park. In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


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

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

  • Roanoke Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Roanoke $199
    Grand Teton National Park $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Roanoke is $199, 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 Roanoke and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Roanoke $96
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Roanoke $192
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Roanoke and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Roanoke 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 Roanoke


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Roanoke $23
    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 Roanoke or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Roanoke 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
    Roanoke $83
    Grand Teton National Park $80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Roanoke

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

  • Roanoke Ebike Food Tour: $150

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.
    Roanoke $35
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Roanoke

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Roanoke.

  • 3-Hour E-Bike Sightseeing and Breweries Tour in Roanoke: $109
  • Blue Ridge Mountain E Bike Tour: $155
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $24
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $13
  • Downtown Roanoke Food, History & Cultural Tour: $80
  • E-Bike Mural Tour of Roanoke: $88
  • Mountain Bike Tour from The Roanoke Star: $139

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
    Roanoke $30
    Grand Teton National Park $19


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