A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Ketchikan for Food, Hiking, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan 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 breathtaking, serene, and beautiful national park. Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a quaint, local, and scenic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Ketchikan attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ketchikan than Shenandoah National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ketchikan is better known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and small town charm, while Shenandoah National Park is more popular for its skiing. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Ketchikan is well known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. Also, Ketchikan is famous for the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is very good for snow skiing. However, Ketchikan 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".

Ketchikan is not a skiing destination.

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

Ketchikan is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ketchikan. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

Is the Food Better in Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Shenandoah National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Ketchikan specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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 Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Ketchikan are destinations which offer amazing 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.

Ketchikan is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Ketchikan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of superb scenery and beauty in both Shenandoah National Park and Ketchikan.

With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. 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.

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.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Ketchikan are superb 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.

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.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Ketchikan are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park is renowned for backpackers. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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

Ketchikan is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is great for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

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 Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shenandoah National Park and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than in Ketchikan. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

Families should spend more time in Ketchikan than Shenandoah National Park. 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 Ketchikan than Shenandoah National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ketchikan that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

You'll find skiing around the national park of Shenandoah National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With shopping and museums around the quaint town of Ketchikan, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

You'll find skiing around the serene destination of Shenandoah National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and food around the local destination of Ketchikan, there's plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

You'll find skiing around the beautiful national park of Shenandoah National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint town of Ketchikan. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shenandoah National Park and Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan 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 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 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 Ketchikan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Shenandoah National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Shenandoah National Park usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Ketchikan. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Shenandoah National Park is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 56°F (13°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Shenandoah National Park usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Ketchikan. The winter months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ketchikan in the winter. The weather in Shenandoah National Park can be very cold. Shenandoah National Park is much colder than Ketchikan in the winter. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 32°F (-0°C) in January, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Shenandoah National Park usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 44°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In April, Shenandoah National Park usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Shenandoah National Park