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

Should you visit Charlotte or Jasper 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 Jasper National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Charlotte 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.

Charlotte and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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 nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charlotte than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charlotte 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 Charlotte and is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. Also, Charlotte is famous for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte 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 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 Jasper National Park?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

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

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 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 Charlotte or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

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 Charlotte or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Charlotte has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

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 Charlotte or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

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

Many people visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Jasper National Park?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

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

Charlotte is a great destination for 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.

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 Charlotte or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Charlotte or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

Jasper 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 Jasper National Park. 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.

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 Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is great for couples. Also, Charlotte 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.

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 Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte 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.

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 Jasper National Park Better for Students?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for students. However, Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

Charlotte is popular with students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.


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

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Charlotte, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel 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 Charlotte or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Jasper National Park

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

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

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 Charlotte Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Charlotte or Jasper National Park?

In either Charlotte 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 Charlotte because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlotte 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 Charlotte.


  • How many days in Charlotte or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Charlotte or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Charlotte. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charlotte has to offer.

You'll find around the national park of Jasper 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 Jasper National Park?

Charlotte 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.

You'll find around the adventure-filled destination of Jasper 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 Jasper National Park?

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

You'll find around the stunning national park of Jasper 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 Charlotte or Jasper National Park?

The growing destination of Charlotte 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.

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


Which place is cheaper, Jasper 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
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Charlotte $225
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $225, 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 Charlotte and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte 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 Charlotte


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    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 Charlotte or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper 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
    Jasper National Park $40
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

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.
    Charlotte $43
    Jasper National Park $7.75

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 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
    Charlotte $20
    Jasper National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charlotte and Jasper National Park, we can see that Charlotte 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 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 Jasper 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 Jasper National Park Expensive?.