A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlotte vs. Death Valley National Park for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Death Valley National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a evolving, up-and-coming, and growing city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Charlotte travel costs.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a striking, vast, and dramatic national park. Many visitors also come to Death Valley National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Death Valley National Park travel costs.

Charlotte and Death Valley National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charlotte. Although Charlotte and Death Valley National Park are popular destinations, Charlotte has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charlotte is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Death Valley National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Death Valley National Park is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. Charlotte is famous for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. It is also well known for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte different from Death Valley National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Charlotte is very good for its sights and museums. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

While most people don't head to Death Valley National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.


Is the Food Better in Charlotte or Death Valley National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Charlotte is very good for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Charlotte area. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Death Valley National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Charlotte is very good for its evening party scene. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Death Valley National Park doesn't offer many options. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.

Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park Better for Resorts?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Death Valley National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.


Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park Better for Hiking?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is great for hiking. However, Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Death Valley National Park for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Charlotte is very good for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Many visitors go to Charlotte to go shopping. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.

Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park More Beautiful?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Death Valley National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The striking desert setting offers stunning beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is at its most beautiful when the sun is low during sunrise and sunset.

Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park Better for Families?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Death Valley National Park. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Death Valley National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Death Valley National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.


Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park Better for Students?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Charlotte is very good for students. However, Death Valley National Park is not popular with students.

Charlotte is a good city to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Death Valley National Park is not popular with students.

Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Charlotte is very good for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.

Is Charlotte or Death Valley National Park a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Death Valley National Park

Charlotte is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Charlotte is a somewhat walkable city. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable city. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Charlotte Worth Visiting? and Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Death Valley National Park or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Charlotte or Death Valley National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Death Valley National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 2-4 days is enough time in Death Valley National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlotte than Death Valley 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 Charlotte.


  • How many days in Charlotte or Death Valley National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Death Valley National Park 2-4

One day in Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

In Charlotte, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this evolving destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find around the national park of Death Valley 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 Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

In Charlotte, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find around the vast destination of Death Valley 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 Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Charlotte. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the dramatic national park of Death Valley National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Charlotte. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Death Valley National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Death Valley National Park or Charlotte?

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

  • Charlotte Prices
    USA Prices
    Death Valley National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Charlotte $225
    Death Valley National Park $101

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $225, while the average daily cost in Death Valley National Park is $101. 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 Charlotte and Death Valley National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Death Valley National Park $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Death Valley National Park $74
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Death Valley National Park

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte or Death Valley 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 Charlotte


Hotels in Death Valley 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: Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Death Valley National Park $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Death Valley National Park?

Prices for flights to both Death Valley National Park and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $80
    Death Valley National Park $35
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

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


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlotte $43
    Death Valley National Park $36

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • Chains, Coffins, & Curses: Charlottesville Ghost Tours: $24

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Death Valley National Park: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Death Valley National Park $8.57


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

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