A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Houston vs. Denali National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Houston or Denali 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 Houston and Denali 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.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Houston travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a spectacular, epic, and vast park. The famous beauty of Denali National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Houston and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Houston or Denali National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Houston than Denali National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Houston is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Denali National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Denali National Park is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

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

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

Houston
Denali National Park

Houston is a great city for its historical sights. However, Denali National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Houston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's 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 Houston or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Houston
Denali National Park

Houston is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Denali National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Houston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

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 Houston or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Denali National Park

Houston is a great city for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Houston has something for everybody. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston or Denali National Park Better for Music?

Houston
Denali National Park

Houston is very good for its live music scene. However, Denali National Park is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Denali National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Houston or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Houston
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a good destination for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Denali National Park makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Houston
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Denali National Park offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Denali National Park?

Houston
Denali National Park

Houston 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 Houston. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

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 Houston or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

Houston
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Denali National Park is one of the main draws. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Houston or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Houston
Denali National Park

Houston is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Houston is very family-friendly. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Houston or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Houston
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Denali National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.


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

Houston
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Denali National Park. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

Houston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this sprawling city, but there are some hostels and cheap motels.

Is Houston or Denali National Park Better for Students?

Houston
Denali National Park

Houston is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Denali National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Denali National Park is not popular with students.

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

Houston
Denali National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Denali National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Public transit is mostly 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 Houston or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Houston
Denali National Park

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

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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 Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Houston?

How long in Houston or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Houston 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, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Houston than Denali 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 Houston.


  • How many days in Houston or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Houston 2-3 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Houston or Denali National Park?

Houston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

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 Houston or Denali National Park?

Houston 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 Houston or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Houston for five days. You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Houston. 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 Houston or Denali National Park?

The southern big city of Houston offers museums and nightlife. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or Houston?

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

  • Houston Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Houston $287
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $287, 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 Houston and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Houston and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Houston 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 Houston


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: Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $246
  • Private Transfer from George Bush Airport(IAH) to Galveston Port : $222
  • SUV Airport Transfer in Houston: $200
  • Sedan Airport Transfer in Houston: $165
  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $156
  • Private Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Port : $156
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Luxury SUV: $120
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Business Car: $119
  • Departure Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH by Sedan: $119
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $115
  • Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Houston 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
    Houston $60
    Denali National Park $98

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston: $75
  • Fun Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $80
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $80
  • Houston Downtown Food Tour with 6 Tastings of Tradition & Fusion: $85
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $93
  • French Cooking Class in Houston (Includes 3-Course Meal): $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Houston $14
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • Best of Houston and Galveston Tour 7 Hours Small Group: $120
  • H- Town 3rd Ward Tour with 15ft Party Truck : $46
  • Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transport: $95
  • 1 Hour Private Christmas Lights Tour in Houston : $39
  • 2 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour: $65
  • 7-Hour Best Of Houston and Galveston Tour: $120
  • 7-Hour Best Of Houston and Galveston Tour: $120
  • 75 Min Best of Houston tour Small-Group : $36
  • All day Galveston Tour From Houston with Tall Ship Elissa & Dolphin Watch: $235
  • All-Inclusive Hip-Hop Brunch Party Bike Tour: $65
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $35
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transportation: $75

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

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

  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • Midnight Sun ATV Adventure 2.5 Hour Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • Wilds of Alaska Classic ATV Adventure: $153
  • Winter Side by Side ATV Tour: $160
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Denali National Park $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Houston Hustle Bar Crawl: $15
  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


When comparing the travel costs between Houston and Denali National Park, we can see that Houston 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 Houston Expensive? and Is Denali National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Houston or Denali National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Houston or Denali National Park in the Summer?

Both Denali National Park and Houston during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Denali National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Houston is much warmer than Denali National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Denali National Park. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Denali National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Houston or Denali National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Denali National Park. Many visitors come to Houston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Denali National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Denali National Park can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Houston is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Houston in October average around 71°F (22°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 32°F (0°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Denali National Park 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit Houston or Denali National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Houston as well as Denali National Park. Most visitors come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Denali National Park because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Denali National Park can be very cold. In January, Houston is generally much warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 52°F (11°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 11°F (-12°C).

Houston usually gets more rain in January than Denali National Park. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Denali National Park 11°F (-12°C)

Should I visit Houston or Denali National Park in the Spring?

Both Denali National Park and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Houston because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Denali National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Denali National Park in the spring. Houston is much warmer than Denali National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

In April, Houston usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Denali National Park 34°F (1°C)

Typical Weather for Denali National Park and Houston

Houston Denali National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 11°F (-12°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 16°F (-9°C) 1.4 inches (37 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 23°F (-5°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 56°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (108 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 32°F (0°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)