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

Should you visit Zion National Park or Ketchikan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zion National Park or Ketchikan, 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.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Zion National Park and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Zion National Park and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Zion National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zion National Park is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty, while Ketchikan is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Zion National Park is more touristy than Ketchikan and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also home to Angels Landing. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Zion National Park different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ketchikan is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

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

Ketchikan is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Ketchikan is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Zion National Park or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan is a town with a few options for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Ketchikan is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Zion National Park or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

Zion National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Zion National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Zion National Park or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park and Ketchikan are both places where visitors can find terrific hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Around Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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 Zion National Park or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Ketchikan is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Is Zion National Park or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Zion National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Is Zion National Park or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Zion National Park and Ketchikan are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Ketchikan is very family-friendly. 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 Zion National Park or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Zion National Park and Ketchikan are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Zion National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Ketchikan is a great park if you're traveling as 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 Zion National Park or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion 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.

Zion National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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

Zion National Park is very good for its public transit. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Zion National Park has a few public transit options. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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

Is Zion National Park or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is well known for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Zion National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

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

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

How long in Zion National Park or Ketchikan?

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

Families should spend more time in Ketchikan than Zion 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 Zion 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 Zion National Park or Ketchikan?

You'll find around the park of Zion 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Ketchikan. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Zion National Park or Ketchikan?

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Zion 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 park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ketchikan is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the local town of Ketchikan. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ketchikan has to offer.

Five days in Zion National Park or Ketchikan?

You'll find around the world-renowned park of Zion National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this 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 park has to offer.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Ketchikan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

A week in Zion National Park or Ketchikan?

Zion National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zion National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Ketchikan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zion National Park and Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan is more expensive. And not only is Zion National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zion National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zion 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 Zion National Park.

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