A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kennebunkport vs. Jasper National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Kennebunkport is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. Many visitors also come to Jasper National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Kennebunkport and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kennebunkport. Although Kennebunkport and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Kennebunkport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kennebunkport is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Kennebunkport is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. It is also home to Dock Square. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Kennebunkport different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Kennebunkport is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Kennebunkport is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kennebunkport makes for a great culinary experience. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Kennebunkport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Kennebunkport is well known for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Kennebunkport is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Kennebunkport is well known for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Kennebunkport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Jasper National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.


Is Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly destination. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Jasper National Park is a very kid-friendly town. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

Is Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Kennebunkport and Jasper National Park make for a very good place to visit.

Kennebunkport is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Jasper National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Is Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Jasper National Park. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.


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

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Kennebunkport is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Jasper National Park

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Kennebunkport is somewhat walkable. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Jasper 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 Kennebunkport.


  • How many days in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kennebunkport 2-4 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Jasper National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

Kennebunkport is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jasper National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Kennebunkport for five days. Kennebunkport is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Jasper National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

Because Kennebunkport is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Jasper National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Kennebunkport?

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

  • Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Kennebunkport $269
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $269, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Kennebunkport and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport or Jasper 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 Kennebunkport


Hotels in Jasper 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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kennebunkport $49
    Jasper National Park $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $115
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

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

  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $35
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • From Boston: Kennebunkport Day Trip & Optional Trolley Tour: $125
  • Kennebunkport, Maine: Lunchtime Culinary Walking Tour: $150
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $160

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

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

  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $106
  • Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper: $230
  • E-Bike Safari Eco Tour: $176
  • Explore Jasper Tour: $184
  • Explore Jasper Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise: $184
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Jasper Ice Climbing Experience: $174
  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kennebunkport $31
    Jasper National Park $11


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

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