A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Ketchikan for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. It's also known for nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Ketchikan travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ketchikan. Although West Palm Beach and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Ketchikan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ketchikan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also home to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.

How is West Palm Beach different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is notable for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

West Palm Beach has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

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 West Palm Beach or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is renowned for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, West Palm Beach is a perfect choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Ketchikan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is renowned for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, West Palm Beach is a very popular vacation destination. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is very popular for hiking. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Ketchikan is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its 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.

West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is West Palm Beach or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either West Palm Beach or Ketchikan.

West Palm Beach is a very family-friendly destination. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Ketchikan is a very kid-friendly beach area. 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 West Palm Beach or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

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

West Palm Beach is a great beach area if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

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 West Palm Beach or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

West Palm Beach is very good for its public transit. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

West Palm Beach has a few public transit options. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

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

Is West Palm Beach or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is a great town for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

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

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable place. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both West Palm Beach and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than in Ketchikan. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ketchikan than West Palm Beach 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 Ketchikan.

One day in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beach area of West Palm Beach. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The local destination of Ketchikan offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of West Palm Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The town of Ketchikan offers museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant beach area of West Palm Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach area makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer.

Ketchikan is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

West Palm Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in West Palm Beach, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Ketchikan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Ketchikan?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and West Palm Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Ketchikan. 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, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Ketchikan. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the winter for the cuisine. Additionally, 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, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

West Palm Beach is much warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In April, West Palm Beach usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and West Palm Beach