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

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a scenic, breathtaking, and serene national park. Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shenandoah National Park than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shenandoah National Park is better known for its skiing, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Also, Shenandoah National Park is famous for Skyline Drive. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place for skiing. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Grand Teton National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

You'll find a number of respectable museums and attractions in both Grand Teton National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

While most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

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

Shenandoah National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

The vibe at night is respectable in both Shenandoah National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

Shenandoah National Park doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Both Shenandoah National Park and Grand Teton National Park are destinations which offer terrific hiking.

Around Shenandoah National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Grand Teton National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

If you're looking to go shopping, Shenandoah National Park and Grand Teton National Park both offer plenty of respectable spots.

Shenandoah National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Grand Teton National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park More Beautiful?

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its scenery and 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.

Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Both Shenandoah National Park and Grand Teton National Park are excellent to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shenandoah National Park. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for couples. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.


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

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

For backpackers, both Shenandoah National Park and Grand Teton National Park are terrific places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit Shenandoah National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

Grand Teton National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Neither Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

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

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

Shenandoah National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.


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

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

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

Families should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Shenandoah National Park. 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 Shenandoah National Park. 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 Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the beautiful national park of Shenandoah National Park. 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.

With around the vast park of Grand Teton National Park, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the destination of Shenandoah National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With around the impressive destination of Grand Teton National Park, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

With around the vast park of Grand Teton National Park, there's plenty to do. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 is common to spend one week here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


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

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

  • Shenandoah National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Shenandoah National Park $145
    Grand Teton National Park $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Shenandoah National Park is $145, 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 Shenandoah National Park and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shenandoah National Park $53
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shenandoah National Park $106
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Shenandoah National Park and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park


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: Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $70
    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 Shenandoah National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Shenandoah National Park 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
    Shenandoah National Park $49
    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.
    Shenandoah National Park $34
    Grand Teton National Park $43

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
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
    Grand Teton National Park $19


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shenandoah National Park Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.