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

Should you visit Cody, Wyoming 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 Cody, Wyoming and Jasper National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a historic, fascinating, and activity-filled town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Cody, Wyoming travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Cody, Wyoming and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • 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
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cody, Wyoming. Although Cody, Wyoming and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Cody, Wyoming has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cody, Wyoming is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cody, Wyoming is popular for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill. It is also home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

Cody, Wyoming is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cody, Wyoming can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some interesting local museums around town. One of the most popular is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. There are also several gun museums like the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum and the Cody Firearms Museum. For history, check out the Museum of the Plains Indian or the Cody Heritage Museum.

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 Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

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

Cody, Wyoming offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a nod to the Wild West theme. There's a soda saloon, barbecue joints, and old fashioned saloons where you can grab a thick steak or fried green tomatoes. Many have fun decor and a family-friendly vibe that sets the atmosphere.

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 Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

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

Cody, Wyoming has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene, like everything else in town, stays true to the Wild West theme. You'll find cowboys and cowgirls on the dance floor and enjoy live music and cold drinks at the local bar.

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 Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park Better for its Old Town?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

Cody, Wyoming is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cody, Wyoming to see the historical old town. The historic downtown is small, just a few blocks along Sheridan Avenue, but it's filled with personality. The buildings have local character and highlight the town's past.

Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Cody, Wyoming has hiking trails worth exploring. It's not hard to get out of town and enjoy some hiking. Trails take you through the local landscapes and sometimes offer you the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

Cody, Wyoming is well known for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Cody, Wyoming is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find quirky shops, local vendors, and sporting equipment stores around town. Whether you want to pick up a souvenir or browse the Wild West paraphernalia, shopping is a fun activity in 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 Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a destination known for its beauty.

Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Cody, Wyoming is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park.

Cody, Wyoming is a very family-friendly destination. It's a fun stop off for families who are visiting the national parks in the area. There are diverse activities that will give the kids a break from hiking and nature programs. Make sure you check out the Cody Nite Rodeo, the Old Trail Town, and the horseback riding. For a glimpse at what life was like back in the Wild West, check out a Wild Bunch Gunfighters Show.

Jasper National Park is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a very popular place for romance. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Jasper National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Cody, Wyoming makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, this is a fun town to shop, dine, and play. There's horseback riding, historical reenactments, and quirky shops. There's also the opportunity to see wildlife and chat with other travelers.

Is Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Jasper National Park. 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.

Cody, Wyoming is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of campgrounds and cheap motels in the area.


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

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

Neither Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Cody, Wyoming. There's no real public transit through town.

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

Is Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Cody, Wyoming
Jasper National Park

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

Cody, Wyoming is somewhat walkable. The historic downtown can be explored on foot, but anything outside of town will require a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

How long in Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cody, Wyoming 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 Cody, Wyoming.


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

One day in Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

Cody, Wyoming is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Cody, Wyoming has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Jasper National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

Cody, Wyoming 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jasper National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Cody, Wyoming for five days. Cody, Wyoming is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Jasper National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

Because Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Jasper National Park. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers 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 Cody, Wyoming?

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

  • Cody, Wyoming Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cody, Wyoming $191
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Cody, Wyoming is $191, 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 Cody, Wyoming and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cody, Wyoming $78
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cody, Wyoming $156
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Cody, Wyoming and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cody, Wyoming 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 Cody, Wyoming


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: Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cody, Wyoming $46
    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 Cody, Wyoming or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Cody, Wyoming 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
    Cody, Wyoming $80
    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.
    Cody, Wyoming $33
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Cody, Wyoming

For Cody, Wyoming, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cody Trolley Tours - Best of the West Trolley Tour: $35
  • Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours BY:Red Canyon River Trips: $56
  • Red Canyon River Trips 7 Mile Whitewater Adventure 3:00PM Daily!: $59
  • Red Canyon River Trips Whitewater 7 Mile Adventure 1:00PM Daily : $59
  • Kicking Red Canyon Wild Mustang Bus Tour Deals 5 PM In Cody : $69
  • Kicking Red Canyon Wild Mustang Bus Tour Deals 8am Daily : $69
  • Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours And Safaris In Cody Wyoming : $89
  • Red Canyon River Trip’s Extended Whitewater Adventure!: $89
  • Private Guided Nature Hiking Experience in Cody Wyoming: $135
  • Red Canyon’s Best Of The Wild West Wild Mustang+Rafting Adventure: $139
  • Rock Climbing Experience: $150
  • Rock Climbing Experience in Cody, Wyoming: $165

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
    Cody, Wyoming $18
    Jasper National Park $11


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