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

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver?

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 Vancouver 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 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.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a outdoorsy, scenic, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Vancouver travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vancouver than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. Also, Vancouver is famous for Stanley Park.

How is Joshua Tree National Park different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is renowned for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Vancouver has many famous sights for visitors. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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 Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Vancouver has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

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 Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Vancouver has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

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 Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Vancouver are destinations which offer fantastic hiking.

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.

Vancouver is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.


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

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many people travel to Vancouver specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

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 Vancouver More Beautiful?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Joshua Tree National Park and Vancouver.

With stunning beauty, Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors from all around. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver Better for Families?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Vancouver are very good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Joshua Tree 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.

Vancouver is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

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

Vancouver is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Joshua Tree National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Vancouver is a great national park to visit for backpackers. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver Better for Students?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Vancouver. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Joshua Tree National Park is not popular with students.


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

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

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

Vancouver has a great public transit system. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

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 Vancouver a more walkable city?

Joshua Tree National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vancouver. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver?

In either Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver than Joshua Tree National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Joshua Tree National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4 
    Vancouver 3-5

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver?

You'll find around the national park of Joshua Tree National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vancouver is a scenic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver?

You'll find around the adventurous destination of Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Vancouver is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the unique national park of Joshua Tree National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Vancouver is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Vancouver?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Vancouver 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vancouver 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
    Vancouver Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Joshua Tree National Park $177
    Vancouver $165

The average daily cost (per person) in Joshua Tree National Park is $177, while the average daily cost in Vancouver is $165. 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 Vancouver in more detail.



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

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


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: Vancouver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $47
    Vancouver $15

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Vancouver

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Vancouver are as follows:


  • SkyTrain from Airport
    $6.35
  • Taxi from Airport to Downtown
    $21
  • 15 min Taxi Ride
    $8.71
  • SkyTrain DayPass
    $6.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vancouver

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

  • Yvr arrival private transfer to Vancouver hotels cruise ships : $156
  • White Rock to Vancouver Airport (YVR) - Departure Private Transfer: $108
  • Whistler: Vancouver YVR Airport to Whistler Private Transfer: $118
  • YVR Airport Transfer to Squamish: $411
  • YVR Airport Transfer to Fraser Valley: $618
  • Transfer Downtown - Canada Place Cruise Terminal: $136
  • Private Transfer to Whistler with Sightseeing: $538
  • Private Transfer to Whistler: $462
  • Private Transfer to Ferry Terminal: $172
  • Private Transfer - Canada Place Cruise Terminal: $72
  • Private Airport Transfer to/from YVR Airport: $45
  • North Shore Mountains Snowshoeing with Transfer: $108

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

Prices for flights to both Vancouver 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
    Vancouver $54

Typical Food Prices in Vancouver

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Vancouver:


  • All You Can Eat Sushi Lunch
    $8.79

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Vancouver

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

  • Vancouver Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Mt Pleasant Food Tour from Vancouver: $81
  • A Wok Around Food Tour of the Granville Island Public Market: $82
  • Vancouver Street Food Tour in Mount Pleasant Neighborhood: $92
  • Experience Gastown Vancouver's Elite Walking Food Tour: $96
  • Vancouver Food Tour with 6 Tastings of Sushi, Poutine, Chocolate: $97
  • Food Tours Gastown & Downtown with 6+ tastings: $98
  • Experience Gastown Vancouver's Elite Walking Food Tour: $99
  • Vancouver Local Taste Trail Food Tour: $100
  • Granville Island Vancouver's Elite Walking Food Tour: $113
  • Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour: $114
  • Granville Island Market VIP Walking Food Tour : $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $27
    Vancouver $36

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:

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

Tours and Activities in Vancouver

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Vancouver.

  • 2 Hours Private Tour of City of Vancouver: $147
  • Cruise Ship Terminal to Vancouver Airport Private Transport: $150
  • Guided Bike /E-bike Tour in Whistler From Vancouver: $218
  • Half-day Hike and Bike Tour in Vancouver: $129
  • Spirit Of Vancouver Bike or Ebike Tour: $100
  • Sunshine Coast Escape (Around Vancouver) Small Group Tour: $158
  • Vancouver 1-Day city tour: $98
  • Victoria 1-Day Tour From Vancouver: $190
  • Whistler Discovery and Waterfalls Small Group Tour: : $194
  • 1 Day Victoria Tour with Butchart Gardens | from Vancouver: $190
  • 1 day Vancouver City Tour Include Granville Island (Chn&Eng): $80
  • 1 day Whistler Tour from Vancouver Experience (chn&eng): $88

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93
    Vancouver $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Vancouver

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Vancouver:

  • Vancouver British Columbia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Gastown Pub Crawl: $22
  • Gastown Pub Crawl: $26
  • Vancouver Craft Brewery Neighbourhood Walking Tour: $65
  • 3.5-Hour Craft Brewery Tour: $86
  • Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour: $88
  • Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour: $92
  • North Vancouver Elite Walking Brewery Tour: $95
  • Vancouver Wine Tour (Fraser Valley): $121
  • From Fraser Valley Wine Tour with Local Tastings: $129
  • Fraser Valley Wine Tour: $132
  • From Half-Day Fraser Valley Wine Tour: $135


When comparing the travel costs between Joshua Tree National Park and Vancouver, 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 Vancouver Expensive?.