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

Should you visit Savannah or Ketchikan?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Ketchikan? 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.

Savannah

Savannah is a historic, beautiful, and charming city. Savannah is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Savannah travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Savannah and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Savannah or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Savannah. Although Savannah and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Savannah has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Savannah is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Ketchikan is known for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ketchikan is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. It is also home to Forsyth Park.

How is Savannah different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Savannah specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

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

Ketchikan is an amazing town to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Ketchikan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Savannah has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

Is Savannah or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

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

Savannah has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

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 Savannah or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

Savannah is very good for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Savannah to enjoy the beach. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Savannah or Ketchikan Better for its Old Town?

Savannah is notable for its historic old town. However, Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Savannah. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Is Savannah or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

People visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Ketchikan?

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

Savannah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

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 Savannah or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Ketchikan is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Savannah is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is filled with historic buildings and streets lined with trees draped in Spanish Moss.

Is Savannah or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Ketchikan is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Ketchikan is 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.

Savannah is a family-friendly city. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.

Is Savannah or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Savannah and Ketchikan make for a great place to visit.

Savannah is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

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.

Is Savannah or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Savannah and Ketchikan are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Savannah. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Ketchikan is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Is Savannah or Ketchikan Better for Students?

Savannah is very good for students. However, Ketchikan is not popular with students.

Savannah is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Ketchikan is not popular with students.

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

Both Savannah and Ketchikan offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.

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

Is Savannah or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Savannah and Ketchikan both are great when exploring on foot.

Savannah is very walkable. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Ketchikan?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah 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 Savannah.

One day in Savannah or Ketchikan?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Savannah. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Savannah has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful town of Ketchikan offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Savannah or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Savannah. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ketchikan, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Savannah. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Savannah or Ketchikan?

Savannah is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Savannah and Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan is more expensive. And not only is Savannah much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Savannah would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Savannah 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 Ketchikan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ketchikan than you might in Savannah.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Savannah Expensive? and Is Ketchikan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Savannah or Ketchikan?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Savannah 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 Savannah or Ketchikan?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Savannah or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Savannah is much warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. It's quite rainy in Savannah. In July, Savannah usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ketchikan. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Savannah or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Savannah during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Savannah for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Savannah is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Savannah in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Savannah usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Savannah or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Ketchikan. Many visitors come to Savannah in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ketchikan can be very cold during winter. In January, Savannah is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 49°F (9°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Savannah usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Savannah or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Ketchikan. Most visitors come to Savannah for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Savannah is much warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 66°F (19°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Savannah usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Savannah