A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Salt Lake City vs. Grand Teton National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Salt Lake City and Grand Teton National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a religious, architectural, and notable city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Salt Lake City travel costs.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. Grand Teton National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Grand Teton National Park travel costs.

Salt Lake City and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Family-friendly
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Temple Square
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Salt Lake City than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Salt Lake City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Salt Lake City is well known for its religious landmarks and its large Mormon population. Also, Salt Lake City is famous for Temple Square. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Salt Lake City is a great city for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Salt Lake City offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the fascinating sights around town are influenced by the city's Mormon culture. Temple Square is a highlight for most visitors. It spans 35 acres and is beautifully landscaped with several fountains. There are also four main churches - The Temple, the Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and Assembly Hall. The city also has several museums such as the Natural History Museum and the historic Liberty Park.

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 Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Salt Lake 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 Salt Lake City. In recent years the food scene has really improved and you'll find a variety of restaurants that serve everything from upscale dishes to more casual fare.

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 Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

The respectable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Salt Lake City and Grand Teton National Park.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Salt Lake City. Known for its large Mormon population, nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Salt Lake City. While it will likely never be a party city, there are a growing number of entertainment options around town.

Grand Teton National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Grand Teton National Park. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Salt Lake City is not a resort destination.


Is Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Salt Lake City is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Salt Lake City has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a number of good ski resorts nearby, making this a good base or starting point for a ski vacation.

Grand Teton National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Salt Lake City has hiking trails worth exploring. The city offers easy access to many diverse trails, so if you're a nature enthusiasts, you'll appreciate this destination.

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

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Salt Lake 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 Salt Lake City. The city has sprawling outlet malls as well as local stores and craft shops. City Creek Center is a favorite shopping destination, but there are also several large shopping malls that are worth visiting.

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 Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park More Beautiful?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Salt Lake City is not a destination known for its 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.

Salt Lake City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City. There are museums that kids will enjoy like the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Leonardo Museum. There are also fun-filled activities like a visit to Lagoon Amusement Park. You can learn about history at This Is the Place Heritage Park or learn about the undersea world at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium.

Is Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Salt Lake City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with beautiful gardens like Red Butte Garden. There are also nice restaurants and romantic hotels that will make this a nice place for a couple's getaway.


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

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Salt Lake City is lacking in good options 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.

Salt Lake City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in town, but most backpackers overlook this destination or breeze through town quickly.

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

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a surprisingly good public transit system that includes light rail, buses, and commuter trains, but if you want to get out of town you'll need to have a car.

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

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

Salt Lake City
Grand Teton National Park

Salt Lake City and Grand Teton National Park are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Salt Lake City is generally not a very walkable city. While some neighborhoods are walkable, like Temple Square, most visitors prefer to have a car.

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 Salt Lake City Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Salt Lake City, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

Families should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Salt Lake City. 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 Salt Lake 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 Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Salt Lake City 2-3 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the notable city of Salt Lake City. 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.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Salt Lake City. 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 great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park?

Salt Lake City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Teton National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park?

Salt Lake City 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.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Salt Lake City?

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

  • Salt Lake City Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Salt Lake City $282
    Grand Teton National Park $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Salt Lake City is $282, 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 Salt Lake City and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Salt Lake City $119
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Salt Lake City $238
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Salt Lake City and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Salt Lake 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 Salt Lake 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: Salt Lake City Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Salt Lake City $45
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salt Lake City

Also for Salt Lake City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Park City hotel or address: $286
  • Private Transfer from SLC to Park City UT : $286
  • Private Transfer from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City : $132
  • Salt Lake City to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Private Transfer: Hotels to SLC Airport: $45
  • Private Departure Transfer to Salt Lake City Airport SLC: $36

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 Salt Lake City or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Salt Lake 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
    Salt Lake City $86
    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.
    Salt Lake City $28
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Salt Lake City

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

  • 4-Day Yellowstone&Mount Rushmore Tour from Salt Lake City: $1,348
  • 45 Minute Great Salt Lake Boat Tour: $39
  • 8-Day Tour: LA, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone & Las Vegas: $1,399
  • Antelope Island Wildlife Expedition Great Salt Lake Adventure: $99
  • Bonneville Salt Flats Adventure: $149
  • From 6-Day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Tour: $3,884
  • From Bonneville Salt Flats Guided Tour: $149
  • From Private Goblin Valley State Park Tour: $1,475
  • From Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Tour: $1,368
  • From Salt Lake Private Experience to Bonneville Salt Flats: $179
  • Gourmet Dining Experience : $215
  • Grand Teton,Yellowstone National Park 3-Day Tour from SLC: $1,016

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
    Salt Lake City $17
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Salt Lake City

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Salt Lake City:

  • Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour: $20


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