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

Should you visit Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Joshua Tree 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.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a colorful, cultural, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Mexico City travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a unique, fascinating, and adventurous national park. With stunning beauty, Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Mexico City and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City. Although Mexico City and Joshua Tree National Park are popular destinations, Mexico City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mexico City is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Joshua Tree National Park is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also well known for Zócalo.

How is Mexico City different from Joshua Tree National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mexico City 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, Mexico City has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

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 Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City is renowned for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Mexico City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

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 Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Mexico City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

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 Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Joshua Tree National Park does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City has an old town worth visiting. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Joshua Tree National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Joshua Tree National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

Many people travel to Mexico City specifically to go shopping. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

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 Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park More Beautiful?

Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mexico City. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Joshua Tree National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Mexico City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.

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

Joshua Tree National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Joshua Tree National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Is Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Students?

Mexico City 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 Mexico City. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Joshua Tree National Park is not popular with students.

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

Mexico City is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Mexico City. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

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

Is Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Mexico City 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.

Mexico City is generally not a very walkable city. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable city. You need a car to truly explore the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mexico City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City 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 Mexico City.

One day in Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park?

Mexico City is a cultural city where you can fill many days. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the fascinating national park of Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park?

Mexico City is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the fascinating destination of Joshua Tree National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park?

Mexico City 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. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

The fascinating national park of Joshua Tree National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Joshua Tree National Park?

Mexico City 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Joshua Tree National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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