A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Flagstaff vs. Olympic National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Flagstaff and Olympic National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a active, adventurous , and picturesque city. Flagstaff is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Flagstaff travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a stunning, vast, and pristine park. With stunning beauty, Olympic National Park attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

Flagstaff and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Flagstaff. Although Flagstaff and Olympic National Park are both popular with visitors, Flagstaff has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Flagstaff is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Olympic National Park is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Flagstaff is popular for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66. It is also home to Walnut Canyon National Monument. Olympic National Park is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Flagstaff or Olympic National Park.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Flagstaff. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.

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

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Flagstaff is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Flagstaff. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

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 Flagstaff or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

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

Is Flagstaff or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is well known for its resorts. However, Flagstaff is not a resort destination.

In Olympic National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Flagstaff is not a resort destination.


Is Flagstaff or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Both Flagstaff and Olympic National Park are destinations which offer terrific hiking.

Around Flagstaff visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

Olympic National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

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

Flagstaff offers some nice shopping areas. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.

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 Flagstaff or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Olympic National Park attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Flagstaff is a gorgeous place to visit. While the city itself isn't exactly beautiful, the surrounding landscapes are surreal and truly unique.


Is Flagstaff or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Both Flagstaff and Olympic National Park are excellent to visit with kids.

Flagstaff is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

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.

Is Flagstaff or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is well known for couples. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Olympic National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Flagstaff is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.

Is Flagstaff or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Olympic National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Flagstaff is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.


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

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Flagstaff and Olympic National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

Public transit is mostly 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 Flagstaff or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Flagstaff
Olympic National Park

Flagstaff is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

Flagstaff is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.

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 Flagstaff Worth Visiting? and Is Olympic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Flagstaff?

How long in Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

In either Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Flagstaff, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Olympic National Park than Flagstaff. 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.


  • How many days in Flagstaff or Olympic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Flagstaff 2-4 
    Olympic National Park 2-5

One day in Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

In Flagstaff, you'll find shopping and museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums around the park of Olympic National Park. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Flagstaff. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums around the vast destination of Olympic 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 park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

Flagstaff is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

You'll find museums around the vast park of Olympic National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

A week in Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque destination of Flagstaff. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Olympic National Park is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic National Park or Flagstaff?

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

  • Flagstaff Prices
    USA Prices
    Olympic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Flagstaff $207
    Olympic National Park $150

The average daily cost (per person) in Flagstaff is $207, 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 Flagstaff and Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Flagstaff $86
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Flagstaff $172
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Flagstaff and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff


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: Flagstaff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Flagstaff $37
    Olympic National Park $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Flagstaff or Olympic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Olympic National Park and Flagstaff 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
    Flagstaff $95
    Olympic National Park $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Flagstaff $28
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Flagstaff

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

  • Flagstaff's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Flagstaff AZ: $15
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Full-Day Self-Guided Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of Sedona: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Grand Canyon South Rim: $20
  • Forbidden Frights of Flagstaff Ghost Tour: $24
  • Flagstaff Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Forbidden Frights of Flagstaff Ghost Tour: $26
  • Southside Flagstaff Haunted History, True Crime & Ghost Tour: $28
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour: $28
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Walking Tour: $28
  • Mountain Town of Madness, Adults Only Tour: $28

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
    Flagstaff $29
    Olympic National Park $5.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Flagstaff

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

  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl: $50
  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl Of Downtown Flagstaff: $60


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


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