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

Should you visit El Paso or Olympic 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 Olympic 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See El Paso travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a vast, pristine, and stunning park. Olympic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

El Paso and Olympic 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Olympic National Park. Although El Paso and Olympic National Park are popular destinations, Olympic National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Olympic National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while El Paso attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Olympic National Park is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. It is also well known for the Hoh Rain Forest. El Paso is famous for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is El Paso different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Olympic 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 Olympic National Park?

El Paso
Olympic National Park

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either El Paso or Olympic National Park.

El Paso is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Olympic National Park offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.


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

El Paso
Olympic National Park

El Paso is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in El Paso. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Olympic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is El Paso or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

El Paso
Olympic National Park

El Paso is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in El Paso. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is El Paso or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

El Paso
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Olympic National Park. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is El Paso or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

El Paso
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

El Paso is not a hiking destination.

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

El Paso
Olympic National Park

El Paso is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

El Paso offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is El Paso or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

El Paso
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.

Olympic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The diversity of landscapes give the park a unique beauty. You can explore old growth rainforests, wander down pristine beaches, or take in the stunning mountain views.

El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is El Paso or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

El Paso
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Olympic National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is El Paso or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

El Paso
Olympic National Park

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

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

El Paso
Olympic National Park

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

Many backpackers frequent Olympic National Park. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

El Paso
Olympic National Park

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both El Paso and Olympic 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 Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

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

El Paso
Olympic National Park

El Paso is a moderate city for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

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

How long in El Paso or Olympic National Park?

In either El Paso or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Olympic National Park than El Paso because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for El Paso, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Olympic National Park than El Paso 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 Olympic National Park.


  • How many days in El Paso or Olympic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    El Paso 1-2 
    Olympic National Park 2-5

One day in El Paso or Olympic National Park?

In El Paso, you'll find shopping and museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in El Paso, one day is sufficent for most.

In Olympic National Park, you'll find museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in El Paso. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

In Olympic National Park, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Olympic National Park has to offer.

Five days in El Paso or Olympic National Park?

El Paso is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Olympic National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Olympic National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in El Paso or Olympic National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the laid-back destination of El Paso. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Olympic National Park. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Olympic National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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, Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    El Paso $200
    Olympic National Park $150

The average daily cost (per person) in El Paso is $200, while the average daily cost in Olympic National Park is $150. 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 Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    El Paso $81
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    El Paso $162
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in El Paso and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in El Paso or Olympic 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 Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park $61
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    El Paso $27
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in El Paso

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

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

Tours and Activities in Olympic National Park

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    El Paso $27
    Olympic National Park $5.57


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

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 Olympic National Park Expensive?.


Related Articles for Olympic National Park