A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wilmington vs. Glacier National Park for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Glacier National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums. See Wilmington travel costs.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and gorgeous park. Many visitors also come to Glacier National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Glacier National Park travel costs.

Wilmington and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • 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
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Glacier National Park. Although Wilmington and Glacier National Park are both popular with visitors, Glacier National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Glacier National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Wilmington is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. It is also home to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is Wilmington different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


Is the Food Better in Wilmington or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

Wilmington offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.


Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for Beaches?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is notable for its beaches. However, Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Wilmington is considered a top beach destination. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Wilmington to see the historical old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is great for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Glacier National Park for the hiking trails. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Wilmington is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

If you're looking to go shopping, Glacier National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park More Beautiful?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Glacier National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly city. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.


Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington and Glacier National Park are both very good to visit as a couple.

Wilmington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Glacier National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Glacier National Park. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park Better for Students?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for students. However, Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

Wilmington is a good city to visit for students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.


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

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington and Glacier National Park both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Public transit is generally limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

Is Wilmington or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Wilmington
Glacier National Park

Wilmington is a popular place for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

Wilmington is somewhat walkable. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable city. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Wilmington Worth Visiting? and Is Glacier National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wilmington and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wilmington than Glacier National Park 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 Wilmington.


  • How many days in Wilmington or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wilmington 2-5 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

In Wilmington, you'll find shopping and museums. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With around the stunning park of Glacier National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wilmington. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

With around the destination of Glacier National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park.

Five days in Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

Wilmington is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Glacier National Park, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Wilmington. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Glacier National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Wilmington?

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

  • Wilmington Prices
    USA Prices
    Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wilmington $245
    Glacier National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Wilmington is $245, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $148. 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 Wilmington and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wilmington $120
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wilmington $240
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Wilmington and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Wilmington or Glacier 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 Wilmington


Hotels in Glacier 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: Wilmington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wilmington $47
    Glacier National Park $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Wilmington or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $97
    Glacier National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wilmington $17
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wilmington.

  • True Crime Tour of Wilmington: $20
  • Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $24
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour: $26
  • Holiday Lights Cruise: $30
  • Wilmington Speakeasy and History Tour: $30
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Sunset Cruise with Live Music: $45
  • Wrightsville Beach Sunset Dolphin Tour: $49

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $250
  • Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure: $219
  • Driving Tour West Glacier National Park (excludes Sun Road): $245
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $250
  • E Bike Tour in Glacier National Park Cammas Road: $229
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $159
  • Fun and Romantic Pottery Experience for Couples: $275
  • Glacier National Park Going-to-the-Sun Road Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park North Fork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $16
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Many Glacier Self-Guided Audio Tour in Glacier National Park: $9.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wilmington $39
    Glacier National Park $8.41


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

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