A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Cod vs. Jasper National Park for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod or Jasper 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 Cape Cod and Jasper 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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food. See Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cape Cod than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cape Cod is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Jasper National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Also, Cape Cod is famous for The Cape Cod National Seashore. Jasper National Park is well known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Cape Cod 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, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

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 Cape Cod or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Neither Cape Cod or Jasper National Park offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cape Cod This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

People don't go to Jasper National Park for the nightlife. Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Cape Cod or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Cod or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Cape Cod is well known for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cape Cod. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Jasper National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Jasper National Park?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Cape Cod is well known for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

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 Cape Cod or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its scenery and 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.

Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Is Cape Cod or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Both Cape Cod and Jasper National Park are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

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 Cape Cod or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Cape Cod and Jasper National Park both great destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Jasper National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.


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

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination 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.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

Cape Cod is a beach destination 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 Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

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 Cape Cod or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Jasper National Park

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

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Jasper National Park?

In either Cape Cod or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than Jasper National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jasper National Park than Cape Cod 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 Jasper National Park.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Cape Cod or Jasper National Park?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The beautiful national park of Jasper National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Jasper National Park?

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Jasper National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jasper National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cape Cod or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Cape Cod for five days. Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.

Jasper National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jasper National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Cape Cod or Jasper National Park?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, one week is sufficent for most.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


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 Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Cape Cod?

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

  • Cape Cod Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Cod $227
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $227, 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 Cape Cod and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod


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: Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Jasper National Park $19

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 Cape Cod or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $103
    Jasper National Park $40

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.
    Cape Cod $27
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • Moby Dick's New Bedford Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Provincetown SelfGuided Flaming Hot History GPSAudio Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Provincetown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13
  • Cape Cod & Provincetown Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $22
  • Lucinda Liphol Provincetown Cemetery Tour: $30
  • The Lucinda Liphol Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Provincetown West End History Tour : $38
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $46
  • The Pilgrim Monument Tour- From Harbor to Heights: $52
  • Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour: $58
  • Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park on Cape Cod: $63

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: $106
  • 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
    Cape Cod $19
    Jasper National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Cod and Jasper National Park, we can see that Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod Expensive? and Is Jasper National Park Expensive?.