A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Canyon National Park vs. Joshua Tree National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree 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 Grand Canyon National Park and Joshua Tree 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.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, stunning, and world-renowned national park. Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and impressive beauty, while Joshua Tree National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Joshua Tree National Park and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is famous for the sunset views. Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its unique vegetation and large boulders.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Joshua Tree National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Joshua Tree National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grand Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Grand Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Grand Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Grand Canyon National Park. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Joshua Tree National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park is not a good area for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Joshua Tree National Park can be found for those interested. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Joshua Tree National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very family-friendly destination. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park is renowned for couples. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Couples visit Joshua Tree National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Canyon National Park and Joshua Tree National Park are both fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Canyon National Park. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Joshua Tree National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Grand Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable national park. You need a car to truly explore the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Canyon National Park?

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park. In our opinion, Grand Canyon National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Joshua Tree National Park. In general, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Joshua Tree 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 Grand Canyon National Park.

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning national park of Grand Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Joshua Tree National Park, many people enjoy the that this adventurous destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Joshua Tree National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Joshua Tree National Park. 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. This national park offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Joshua Tree National Park. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

When comparing the travel costs between Grand Canyon National Park and Joshua Tree National Park, we can see that Grand Canyon National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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