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

Should you visit Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Jasper National Park 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.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful island. It's a quaint destination. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo travel costs.

Jasper National Park

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

Key Largo and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jasper National Park than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jasper National Park is better known for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is well known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Jasper National Park is well known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Also, Jasper National Park is famous for Icefields Parkway.

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

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

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Key Largo and Jasper National Park can be an enjoyable experience.

Key Largo may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Jasper National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Key Largo or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Key Largo is a island with a few options for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Key Largo is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

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 Key Largo or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

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

Key Largo is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Key Largo or Jasper National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Key Largo is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Key Largo to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Key Largo is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Key Largo has a beach worth visiting. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

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

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Jasper National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Key Largo is not a destination known for its 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.

Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key Largo or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Key Largo is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Key Largo is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Jasper National Park is very family-friendly. 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 Key Largo or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is great for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Jasper National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

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

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Neither Key Largo or Jasper National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

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


Is Key Largo or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Jasper National Park

Neither Key Largo or Jasper National Park are walkable places.

Key Largo is not a very walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

In either Key Largo or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than Jasper National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jasper National Park than Key Largo 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 Jasper National Park.


  • How many days in Key Largo or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Key Largo. 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.

You'll find around the national park of Jasper 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.

A weekend in Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

Key Largo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find around the adventure-filled destination of Jasper 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.


Five days in Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Key Largo for five days. Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the island of Key Largo. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find around the stunning national park of Jasper National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

A week in Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxed destination of Key Largo. Many people spend one week here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, one week is sufficent for most.

Jasper 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Key Largo?

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

  • Key Largo Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key Largo $256
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $256, 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 Key Largo and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo 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 Key Largo


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

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

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

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 Key Largo or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $104
    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.
    Key Largo $27
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Driving Tour (7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Sunset Cruise: $60
  • Small Group Florida Keys Eco Tour by Boat: $60
  • Snorkel Tours to Shallow Coral Reefs at Pennekamp Underwater Park: $64
  • Sunset Cruise: $65
  • Boat Eco Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Mangroves and Manatees - Guided Kayak Eco Tour: $67
  • Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Adventure in Key Largo: $68
  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69

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
    Key Largo $24
    Jasper National Park $11


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