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

Should you visit Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Asheville and Sequoia National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Asheville

Asheville is a outdoorsy, progressive, and open-minded mountain town. Asheville is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food. See Asheville travel costs.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a impressive, magical, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of Sequoia National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Asheville and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

Both Sequoia National Park and Asheville have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Asheville is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Sequoia National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, and local North Carolina barbecue.

How is Asheville different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Asheville or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Asheville. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Asheville has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for Music?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville is a very popular place for live music. However, Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Asheville while you're in town. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville is a mountain town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Asheville has a handful of resorts to choose from. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for its Old Town?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville is a decent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Sequoia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Asheville is a good place to visit the old town. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Sequoia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Sequoia National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.


Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville is a very popular place for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Asheville. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Sequoia National Park is one of the main draws. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

Asheville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With the surrounding mountains and the charming town, the area is filled with natural beauty.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Both Asheville and Sequoia National Park are very good family-friendly destinations.

Asheville is a very kid-friendly mountain town. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sequoia National Park. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.


Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville and Sequoia National Park both very good destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Asheville frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Sequoia National Park is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sequoia National Park. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Asheville. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.


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

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Asheville and Sequoia National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around by using their own vehicle. In particular, if you plan to hike or explore the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll need a car. Many of the downtown hotels offer shuttle buses to the Biltmore area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Is Asheville or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Asheville
Sequoia National Park

Asheville is a mountain town with good options for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Asheville is somewhat walkable. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to reach restaurants and shops on foot. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

Both Asheville and Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park than in Asheville. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Sequoia 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 Asheville.


  • How many days in Asheville or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Asheville 2-3 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

In Asheville, you'll find food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

You'll find around the national park of Sequoia 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.


A weekend in Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

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

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Sequoia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

Asheville is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find around the breathtaking national park of Sequoia 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.

A week in Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find live music and food around the progressive destination of Asheville. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Asheville?

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

  • Asheville Prices
    USA Prices
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Asheville $159
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Asheville is $159, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $152. 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 Asheville and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Asheville $89
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Asheville $178
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Asheville and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Asheville or Sequoia 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 Asheville


Hotels in Sequoia 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: Asheville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Asheville $14
    Sequoia National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Asheville or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Asheville 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
    Asheville $58
    Sequoia National Park $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Asheville $20
    Sequoia National Park $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Asheville

Here are a few typical costs in Asheville for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Biltmore Estate Entrance Fee
    $60
  • Massage
    $40

Tours and Activities in Asheville

Here are a few actual costs in Asheville for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Explore Asheville on Segway Tours: $65
  • 2.5-3 HR Guided Scenic UTV Adventure: $175
  • 2.5-3 hour Smoky Mountain Cherokee Blue Ridge Parkway Safari tour: $130
  • 3 - 3.5 HR Smoky Mtn. Cherokee Eco Elk Safari Jeep Adventure : $150
  • 3-3.5 HR UTV ECO Elk Wilderness Adventure : $250
  • Asheville Ghost Tour: A Walk Through Riverside Cemetery & Montford Neighborhood: $27
  • Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views: $75
  • Asheville Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour: $41
  • Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour : $27
  • Asheville Sightseeing and Party Tour: $94
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Guided Jeep Tour: $109

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Asheville $16
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Asheville

Also in Asheville, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Asheville Bar Crawl: $15
  • Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour: $69
  • Premier Walking Guided Brewery Tour Through Downtown Asheville: $69
  • Bachelorette Royal Bar Crawl through South Slope District: $80
  • Floating Bar Crawl Tour: $85
  • Asheville Brewery Tour: $94
  • 2 Vineyard Wine Tour of Western NC: $159
  • Private Wine Tour with Dine in Black Mountain from Asheville: $230
  • Three Vineyards Half Day Private Wine Tour From Asheville: $260


When comparing the travel costs between Asheville and Sequoia National Park, we can see that Asheville is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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