A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Atlanta vs. Jasper National Park for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Jasper 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.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a cultural, diverse, and sprawling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Atlanta travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a adventure-filled, stunning, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come to Jasper National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Atlanta and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlanta than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlanta is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Jasper National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Jasper National Park is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Atlanta different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Atlanta is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Atlanta that are not to be missed. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Atlanta is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Atlanta makes for a great culinary experience. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Atlanta or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Atlanta is well known for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Atlanta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Atlanta or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Jasper National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Atlanta is terrific for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Atlanta is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Atlanta or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Jasper National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Atlanta or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Atlanta and Jasper National Park are both superb destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Jasper National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.


Is Atlanta or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a great national park for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Jasper National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Atlanta or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Jasper National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Atlanta or Jasper National Park Better for Students?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Atlanta is well known for students. However, Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.


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

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Atlanta is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Atlanta or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Jasper National Park

Atlanta is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

In either Atlanta or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than Atlanta because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Jasper 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 Atlanta.


  • How many days in Atlanta or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

Atlanta is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Jasper National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

Atlanta is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Jasper National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jasper National Park has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Atlanta for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Atlanta. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jasper National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

The sprawling big city of Atlanta offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jasper National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Jasper National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Atlanta?

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

  • Atlanta Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlanta $204
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $204, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Atlanta and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Jasper 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Jasper 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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Jasper National Park $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

Also for Atlanta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lithia Springs to Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury Car: $283
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta by SUV: $146
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV: $147
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Sedan Car: $131
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • Atlanta International Airport: Transfer to Atlanta City: $70
  • Atlanta to Atlanta Airport (ATL) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Atlanta to Atlanta Airport (ATL) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Transfer from DeKalb-Peachtree Airport: $150

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $74
    Jasper National Park $40
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

For Atlanta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $65
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Macaron Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class With a Local Chef: $75
  • Atlanta : 2-Hour Gnocchi Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Walking Food Tour: $106
  • Midtown Atlanta Food Tour with 6 Tastings of Southern Flavors: $109
  • Buhi Food Tour Global Flavor Journey: $130

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • Atlanta Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • App-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • The Civil Rights Movement in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket: $22
  • Selma in Atlanta Tour: $25
  • Atlanta Walking Mural Tour : $25
  • World of Coca-Cola General Admission Ticket: $25
  • World of Coca-Cola General Admission Ticket: $25
  • The Burning & the Bound: Grievous Ghost Tour of Atlanta: $26
  • The Burning & the Bound: Grievous Ghost Tour of Atlanta: $27
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $29

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

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

  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $105
  • Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper: $230
  • E-Bike Safari Eco Tour: $176
  • Explore Jasper Tour: $184
  • Explore Jasper Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise: $184
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Jasper Ice Climbing Experience: $174
  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Atlanta's Spirits and Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Atlanta's Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $130
  • Private Luxury Wine Tour from Atlanta to North Georgia Vineyards: $133
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $144
  • North Georgia Mountains TWO Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $155
  • Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting: $159
  • Elijay Hike w/ Waterfall & Wine Tasting Private Tour from ATL: $230
  • Georgia Vineyards Wine Tour: $2,300


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

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