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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Jasper National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a spirited, luxury, and high energy coastal city. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and food. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. The famous beauty of Jasper National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Jasper National Park and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Fort Lauderdale makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is well known for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Fort Lauderdale is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Fort Lauderdale offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Fort Lauderdale are among the best in the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Jasper National Park is one of the main draws. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Both Fort Lauderdale and Jasper National Park are great family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Jasper National Park is very family-friendly. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for romance. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Fort Lauderdale has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Jasper National Park is a great coastal city if you're traveling as 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Jasper National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

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

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Jasper National Park

Fort Lauderdale is well known for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

In either Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Jasper National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale.


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Fort Lauderdale. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The stunning destination of Jasper National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

Fort Lauderdale is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The national park of Jasper National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Fort Lauderdale for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the beautiful coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This national park offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy destination of Fort Lauderdale. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fort Lauderdale, one week is sufficent for most.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Jasper National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Fort Lauderdale?

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

  • Fort Lauderdale Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Fort Lauderdale $218
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $218, 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 Fort Lauderdale and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale


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: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale in Business Car: $107
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale in Luxury SUV: $119
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Hollywood Beach in Business Car : $78
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Hollywood Beach in Luxury SUV: $113
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale by Luxury SUV: $155
  • Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer: $289
  • Boca Raton Luxury SUV Transfer to/from Fort Lauderdale Airport: $55
  • Boynton Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Departure Private Transfer: Fort Lauderdale to Airport FLL in Luxury SUV: $119
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton - Arrival Private Transfer: $89
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boynton Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $151

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 Fort Lauderdale or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $85
    Jasper National Park $40
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Fort Lauderdale.

  • Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise: $64
  • Immersive Sushi Cooking Class in Fort Lauderdale: $75
  • Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner: $80
  • All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise: $80
  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas, Around the World Food Tour Experience: $120

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.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Pembroke Pines by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk Self-guided Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pompano Beach by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • 1-Hour Family Pirate Adventure Cruise: $22
  • Fort Lauderdale Fallen Frights and Fury Ghost Tour: $24
  • Private BLU3 Nomad Scuba Demo Experience in Deerfield: $25
  • Holiday Mansion Lights Boat Tour: $30
  • Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure and Wildlife Encounter: $31
  • Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale: $31
  • VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!! Best of Fort Lauderdale over 30 years!!!: $32
  • Fort Lauderdale Fallen Frights and Fury Ghost Tour: $32
  • Sea Rocket Intracoastal Holiday Lights Cruise in Fort Lauderdale: $33

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
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Jasper National Park $11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Fort Lauderdale Bar Crawl: $15
  • Ft. Lauderdale: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36


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