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

Should you visit Memphis or Jasper National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Jasper National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Memphis

Memphis is a soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, museums, and nightlife. See Memphis 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.

Memphis and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • 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 walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Memphis than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Memphis is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Jasper National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Jasper National Park is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

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

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

Memphis
Jasper National Park

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

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

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 Memphis or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Memphis 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, Memphis makes for a great culinary experience. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

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 Memphis or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Memphis is well known for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Memphis is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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 Memphis or Jasper National Park Better for Music?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Memphis is terrific for live music. However, Jasper National Park is not a live music destination.

Memphis is a world class music destination. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Jasper National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Jasper National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Jasper National Park?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

If you're looking to go shopping, Memphis and Jasper National Park both offer plenty of respectable spots.

Memphis has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Jasper National Park is a good destination for shopping. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Memphis or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Memphis 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.

Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Memphis or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jasper National Park. 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.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Memphis or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a great national park for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

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

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Memphis is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.


Is Memphis or Jasper National Park Better for Students?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Memphis is a nice place to visit for students. However, Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

Memphis is popular with students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

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

Memphis
Jasper National Park

Memphis is a city 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 Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

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 Memphis or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Memphis
Jasper National Park

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

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

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


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

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

How long in Memphis or Jasper National Park?

In either Memphis 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 Memphis because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Memphis, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Memphis or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Memphis or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Memphis. 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.

In Jasper 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.

A weekend in Memphis or Jasper National Park?

Memphis is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Jasper 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 Jasper National Park has to offer.

Five days in Memphis or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Memphis for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Memphis. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jasper National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Memphis or Jasper National Park?

The laid-back destination of Memphis offers nightlife and live music. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jasper National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Jasper 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) 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 Memphis?

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

  • Memphis Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Memphis $199
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $199, 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 Memphis and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Memphis 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 Memphis


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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $171
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72

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 Memphis or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Memphis 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
    Memphis $74
    Jasper National Park $40
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

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


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

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.
    Memphis $45
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket: $3.27
  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket at FedExForum: $3.36
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Civil Rights Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Memphis Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $12
  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis: $15
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15
  • Memphis Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22

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
    Memphis $26
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $31
  • Guided Bar Crawl on a Pedal Bike: $40
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • #1 Way To See Beale Street, Bar Crawl and Murals: $430


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