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

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a energetic, lively, and fun beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and beaches. See Daytona Beach travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a adventure-filled, stunning, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Daytona Beach and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Daytona Beach is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Jasper National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Daytona Beach is more touristy than Jasper National Park and is known for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. Also, Daytona Beach is famous for The Daytona International Speedway. Jasper National Park is well known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

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

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

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Jasper National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Both Daytona Beach and Jasper National Park offer a number of respectable restaurants to choose from.

Daytona Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Jasper National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Daytona Beach is terrific for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Daytona Beach is a must-see party destination. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

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 Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Daytona Beach is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Jasper National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Daytona Beach active and fun. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Jasper National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Daytona Beach is a beach city with a few options for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Daytona Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Daytona Beach is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Daytona Beach has a beach worth visiting. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

People visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Both Daytona Beach and Jasper National Park are respectable shopping destinations.

Daytona Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.

Jasper National Park is a good destination for shopping. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Daytona Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Daytona Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

Jasper National Park is known to be 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.

Daytona Beach is not always a place people visit with their families. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.


Is Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a well-known place for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

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.

Daytona Beach is a nice destination for couples. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.

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

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Jasper National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Daytona Beach is terrific for students. However, Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

Daytona Beach is a great destination for students. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.


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

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Neither Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

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 Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Jasper National Park

Neither Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park are walkable places.

Daytona Beach is not a walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

In either Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jasper National Park than Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Daytona Beach 7 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and nightlife when visiting the destination of Daytona Beach. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the adventure-filled 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 Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

Daytona Beach is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This beach city 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 Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Daytona Beach for five days. You'll find live music and nightlife around the beach city of Daytona Beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning 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 Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

The party-hard destination of Daytona Beach offers nightlife and live music. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples 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 Daytona Beach?

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

  • Daytona Beach Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Daytona Beach $269
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $269, 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 Daytona Beach and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach


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: Daytona Beach Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    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 Daytona Beach or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Daytona Beach 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
    Daytona Beach $138
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Daytona Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Daytona Beach.

  • Polynesian Fire and Dinner Show Ticket in Daytona Beach: $53

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.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Daytona Beach

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Daytona Beach are as follows:

  • Discovery Dolphin Boat Tour: $35
  • Wildlife Tour of Indian River Lagoon with Experienced Captain: $35
  • St. Johns River Cruise - Blue Spring State Park : $38
  • Paddle Pub Experience: $45
  • Scenic Mangrove Tunnel Paddle Tour – New Smyrna Beach: $45
  • Guided Wildlife Eco Kayak Tour in New Smyrna Beach: $50
  • New Smyrna Mangrove Paddle & Mimosa Tour: $55
  • Zipline Adventure through Tuscawilla Park: $59
  • Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65
  • Dolphin and Wildlife Tour at Indian River Shores: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Stand Up Paddleboard Tour in Daytona Beach: $65
  • New Smyrna Dolphin and Manatee Kayak and SUP Adventure Tour: $65

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

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

  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Jasper National Park: $14
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour: $62
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Morning Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour: $64
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $67
  • Jasper Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour with Maligne Lake Hike: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Daytona Beach

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

  • Karaoke Party Bus Dive Bar Crawl: $40
  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl: $50


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