A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America El Paso vs. Denali National Park for Backpackers, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit El Paso or Denali 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 El Paso and Denali National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

El Paso

El Paso is a low-key, undiscovered, and laid-back city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See El Paso travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a rugged, spectacular, and epic park. Denali National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

El Paso and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in El Paso or Denali National Park?

Both Denali National Park and El Paso have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. El Paso is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Denali National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Denali National Park is more touristy than El Paso and is known for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife. El Paso is famous for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is El Paso different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in El Paso or Denali National Park?

El Paso
Denali National Park

El Paso is very good for its historical sights. However, Denali National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.


Is the Food Better in El Paso or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

El Paso
Denali National Park

El Paso is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Denali National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

El Paso has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Denali National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is El Paso or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

El Paso
Denali National Park

El Paso is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities El Paso has a few options to choose from. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is El Paso or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

El Paso
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is very good for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso is not a resort destination.

Denali National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is El Paso or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

El Paso
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is very good for its hiking trails. However, El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Denali National Park. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in El Paso or Denali National Park?

El Paso
Denali National Park

El Paso is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Denali National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting El Paso. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

Is El Paso or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

El Paso
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.

Denali National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is El Paso or Denali National Park Better for Families?

El Paso
Denali National Park

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either El Paso or Denali National Park.

El Paso is a family-friendly city. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Denali National Park. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is El Paso or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

El Paso
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a very popular place for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Denali National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

Is El Paso or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

El Paso
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Denali National Park. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

El Paso is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's little in the area that appeals to backpackers.


Is El Paso or Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

El Paso
Denali National Park

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both El Paso and Denali National Park.

Public transit is mostly limited in El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Is El Paso or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

El Paso
Denali National Park

El Paso is adequate for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

El Paso is generally not a very walkable city. You really need a car to get around town.

Denali National Park is not a walkable city. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

For even more information, also check out Is El Paso Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or El Paso?

How long in El Paso or Denali National Park?

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

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

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


  • How many days in El Paso or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    El Paso 1-2 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in El Paso or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of El Paso. 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 El Paso has to offer.

In Denali National Park, you'll find . This park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in El Paso or Denali National Park?

El Paso 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.

In Denali National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Denali National Park has to offer.

Five days in El Paso or Denali National Park?

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

Denali National Park is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in El Paso or Denali National Park?

The undiscovered destination of El Paso 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Denali National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Denali National Park. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or El Paso?

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

  • El Paso Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    El Paso $200
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in El Paso is $200, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. 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 El Paso and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    El Paso $81
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    El Paso $162
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in El Paso and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in El Paso or Denali 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 El Paso


Hotels in Denali 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: El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    El Paso $37
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

Also for El Paso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $293
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • Round Trip Transfer to Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta: $100
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $67
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into El Paso or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and El Paso 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
    El Paso $93
    Denali National Park $98
Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Organ Mountains Sunset Dinner Trip: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    El Paso $27
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in El Paso

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

  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $130
  • El Paso Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $102
  • Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour: $190
  • Private Downtown City Sightseeing Tour of Juarez Mexico: $120
  • Texas and New Mexico Bundle 4 day Self Guided National Park Tours: $40
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $275
  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $26
  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $24

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Hiking Tour in Denali: $209
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in the Alaska Range - Denali Area: $199
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $190

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    El Paso $27
    Denali National Park $12


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

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


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