A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Joshua Tree National Park vs. Calgary for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Joshua Tree National Park and Calgary can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a adventurous, unique, and fascinating national park. The beauty of Joshua Tree National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Calgary

Calgary is a authentic, western, and local city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Calgary travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park and Calgary: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Calgary. Although Joshua Tree National Park and Calgary are both popular with visitors, Calgary has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Calgary is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Joshua Tree National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Joshua Tree National Park is popular for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Calgary is popular for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede. It is also home to Calgary Olympic Park.

How is Joshua Tree National Park different from Calgary?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a city with good options for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.


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

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

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

Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary Better for Nightlife?

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Calgary. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Joshua Tree National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Calgary is not a hiking destination.

Around Joshua Tree National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Calgary is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary?

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Calgary has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary More Beautiful?

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Joshua Tree National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary Better for Families?

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. 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.

Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Calgary is a good national park for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Joshua Tree National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

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

Calgary has some public transit options. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.

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


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary a more walkable city?

Joshua Tree National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Calgary is generally not a very walkable city. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.

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 Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Joshua Tree National Park than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Joshua Tree National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.

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

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


  • How many days in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary? Ideal Length of Stay
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4 
    Calgary 1-2

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary?

In Joshua Tree 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the western city of Calgary. 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.

A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary?

In Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Calgary. 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.


Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary?

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Calgary is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Joshua Tree National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Joshua Tree National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Calgary 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

  • Joshua Tree National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Calgary Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Joshua Tree National Park $177
    Calgary $177

The average daily cost (per person) in Joshua Tree National Park is $177, while the average daily cost in Calgary is $177. 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 Joshua Tree National Park and Calgary in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
    Calgary $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
    Calgary $146
Compare Hotels in Joshua Tree National Park and Calgary

Looking for a hotel in Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary? 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 Joshua Tree National Park


Hotels in Calgary


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: Calgary Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $47
    Calgary $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:

  • Private Transfers during Calgary Stampede: $72
  • Private Transfer: Calgary Airport to Downtown: $110
  • Private Transfer within Calgary from Airport or Hotels: $111
  • Private Transfer from Calgary to Calgary Airport YYC in Luxury Van: $141
  • Private Transfer from Calgary to Calgary Airport YYC in Luxury SUV: $141
  • From Bus Transfer to Jasper: $154
  • From Bus Transfer to Banff: $60
  • Experience Private Airport Transfer in Calgary: $52
  • Departure Private Transfer: Calgary to Calgary Airport YYC in Luxury Van: $141
  • Departure Private Transfer: Calgary to Calgary Airport YYC in Business Car: $119
  • Prvt. Transfer YYC Airport to WinSport Olympic Park: $86
  • Private Transfer to Calgary from Airport: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Joshua Tree National Park or Calgary?

Prices for flights to both Calgary and Joshua Tree National Park 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $60
    Calgary $54

Typical Food Prices in Calgary

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


  • Bread, Chips, Cheese
    $8.10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary

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

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
  • Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
  • Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $80
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $127
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $27
    Calgary $15

Tours and Activities in Joshua Tree National Park

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

  • Rappelling Experience: $255
  • From San Diego: Joshua Tree National Park Private Tour: $949

Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary

Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Stampede Admission (for 2)
    $22

Tours and Activities in Calgary

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

  • 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Guided Group Tour : $132
  • 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands in Private Custom Tour: $88
  • 2-Day Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Columbia Icefield Rockies Tour: $80
  • 3 Day Banff Moraine Lake Louise Johnston Columbia Icefield Tour : $241
  • 6-Hour Private City Tour Drive to Calgary Tower: $682
  • Airport Pickup & Private Tour from Calgary to The Rockies!: $257
  • Badlands Tour: Drumheller with Museum, Hoodoos & Coal Mine: $121
  • Banff Explorer™ Private Tour with Moraine Lake & Lake Louise: $537
  • Banff Gondola Hot Springs Bow Falls and Three Lakes tour: $73
  • Banff Gondola Upper Hot Springs & Top 3 Lakes Tour from Calgary: $88
  • Banff Johnston Canyon and Banff Gondola 1 Day Tour from Calgary: $118
  • Banff Lake Louise Moraine & Emerald Lake Tour: $77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93
    Calgary $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary

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

  • Brewery Tours at Award Winning Venues: $82
  • Calgary Brewery Tour: $88


When comparing the travel costs between Joshua Tree National Park and Calgary, we can see that Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park Expensive? and Is Calgary Expensive?.