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

Should you visit Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a lively, youthful, and fun city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Jacksonville travel costs.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a surreal, impressive, and magical national park. Sequoia National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Jacksonville and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
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
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jacksonville than Sequoia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jacksonville is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Sequoia National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. Also, Jacksonville is famous for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

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 Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

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 Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

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

Jacksonville has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

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

Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Sequoia National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.


Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Jacksonville is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Jacksonville attract visitors from all over. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Jacksonville is a very popular place for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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


Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Sequoia National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Sequoia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.


Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sequoia National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

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

Plenty of students visit Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Jacksonville is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Jacksonville has some public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.


Is Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Sequoia National Park

Jacksonville is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. 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 Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park?

Both Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville.


  • How many days in Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park?

In Jacksonville, you'll find shopping and museums. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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, many people enjoy the that this impressive national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jacksonville. 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.

Sequoia National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park?

Jacksonville is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Jacksonville or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the under-rated destination of Jacksonville. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sequoia National Park is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do 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.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Jacksonville?

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

  • Jacksonville Prices
    USA Prices
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jacksonville $289
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $289, 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 Jacksonville and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville


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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Sequoia National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

Also for Jacksonville, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Jacksonville to Cruise Port Jacksonville: $108
  • Private Transfer from Carnival Port to Jacksonville Airport (JAX): $108
  • Private Transfer from Carnival Cruise Port to Jacksonville City: $108
  • Private Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Downtown Savannah Hotels: $300
  • Private Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Carnival Cruise Port: $135
  • Private Transfer JAX Airport to Ritz Carlton Amelia Island: $135
  • Miami: One Way To/From Airport Transfer: $78
  • Luxury Car Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Ponte Vedra Resorts: $145
  • Luxury Car Transfer JAX Airport to Margaritaville Beach Hotel: $155
  • Jacksonville to Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville - Departure Private Transfer: $159
  • Jacksonville Airport Private Lux Car Transfer to Downtown Hotels: $139
  • Jacksonville Airport Limo Transfer to Hammock Beach Golf Resort: $275

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

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $166
    Sequoia National Park $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $20
  • San Marco Food Tour Culinary Journey in Jacksonville: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

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

  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $8.00
  • 90 Minute Self-Guided Arcimoto FUV Adventure: $145
  • All-Inclusive Progressive Culinary & History Experience: $125
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • Amelia Island Floating Tiki Boat Cruise with BYOB Option: $75
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $65
  • Architecture and History Tour in San Marco: $96
  • Avondale Brunch Tour (Jacksonville): $135
  • Big Talbot Island Self Guided Tour with Smart Helmets: $115
  • Bike Ride Through Ponte Vedra Beach Private Tour Florida: $27
  • CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach: $145
  • Daytona Beach: 3 Hour Coastal Discovery Boat Cruise: $150

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

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

  • All-Inclusive Sips & Ships: Downtown Pub Crawl: $75
  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135


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


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