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

Should you visit Houston or Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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 southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food. See Houston travel costs.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a impressive, magical, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of Sequoia National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Houston and Sequoia 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 the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Sequoia National Park are popular destinations, Houston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Houston is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Sequoia National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Houston is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Houston. 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.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Houston or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Houston is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Houston. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Houston or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Houston is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Houston has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Houston or Sequoia National Park Better for Music?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Houston is a city with good options for live music. However, Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Houston or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a national park with a few options for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Sequoia National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Sequoia National Park?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Houston is a city with good options for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.


Is Houston or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park is one of the main draws. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Houston or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Both Houston and Sequoia National Park are very good family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sequoia National Park. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Houston or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

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

Couples visit Sequoia National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Houston is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Houston
Sequoia National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.


Is Houston or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Houston
Sequoia National Park

Houston and Sequoia National Park both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

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

Sequoia National Park is generally not a very walkable city. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Houston or Sequoia National Park?

Both Houston and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park than in Houston. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

Families should spend more time in Houston than Sequoia 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Houston than Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Houston 2-3 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Houston or Sequoia National Park?

Because Houston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national 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 Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. 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 Sequoia National Park, you'll find . 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 Sequoia National Park has to offer.


Five days in Houston or Sequoia National Park?

Houston 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.

Sequoia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sequoia National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Houston or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the southern big city of Houston. 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 Sequoia National Park. In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


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, Sequoia 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
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Houston $287
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $287, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $152. 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 Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Houston and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Houston or Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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
    Sequoia National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Sedan Airport Transfer in Houston: $165
  • SUV Airport Transfer in Houston: $200
  • Private Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Port : $156
  • Private Transfer from George Bush Airport(IAH) to Galveston Port : $222
  • Private Transfer IAH Airport to Houston Space Center Galveston: $42
  • Private One-way Transfer from Houston to George Bush Airport : $77
  • Private One-way Transfer from George Bush Airport to Houston: $77
  • Private Departure Transfer to Houston William P. Hobby Airport HOU: $48
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $54
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $246
  • Houston to Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108

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

Prices for flights to both Sequoia 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
    Sequoia National Park $53

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
    Sequoia National Park $31

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 Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

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

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