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

Should you visit Mexico City or Redwood National Park?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Redwood 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 cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mexico City travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Mexico City and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City. Although Mexico City and Redwood 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 Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. 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 Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood 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 Redwood National Park?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Mexico City on the map. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Mexico City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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 Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Mexico City or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Mexico City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Mexico City or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.


Is Mexico City or Redwood National Park Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Mexico City is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Redwood National Park does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Redwood National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

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

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Redwood National Park?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Mexico City is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.


Is Mexico City or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mexico City or Redwood 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.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Mexico City or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Redwood 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 Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Students?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Mexico City is well known for students. However, Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

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

Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

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

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Mexico City is well known for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Mexico City or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Mexico City
Redwood National Park

Mexico City is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Mexico City is generally not very walkable. 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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Mexico City or Redwood National Park?

In either Mexico City or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Mexico City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Mexico City than Redwood National Park. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Mexico City than Redwood 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 Redwood 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 Redwood 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.


  • How many days in Mexico City or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mexico City 3-5 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Mexico City or Redwood National Park?

Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the monumental park of Redwood 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the monumental destination of Redwood National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Mexico City or Redwood National Park?

Mexico City is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the grand park of Redwood National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the dynamic big city of Mexico City. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Redwood 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood National Park or Mexico City?

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

  • Mexico City Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mexico City $212
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Mexico City is $212, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Mexico City and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mexico City $38
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mexico City $76
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Mexico City and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Mexico City or Redwood 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 Mexico City


Hotels in Redwood 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: Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mexico City $12
    Redwood National Park $53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Mexico City:


  • Metro
    $1.09
  • Uber Ride
    $3.80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

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

  • Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Business Car: $90
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV: $101
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Business Car: $90
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV: $101
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport NLU by Luxury SUV: $203
  • Arrival Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV: $107
  • CDMX: Fly over Teotihuacan in a hot air balloon, with transfers and breakfast included.: $219
  • Departure Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV: $101
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) Tecozautla - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $252
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) to Chignahuapan - Arrival Private Transfer: $118
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) to Tecozautla - Arrival Private Transfer: $126
  • Mexico Airport(MEX) to Chignahuapan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $236

Is it cheaper to fly into Mexico City or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park and Mexico City 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
    Mexico City $43
    Redwood National Park $56
Typical Food Prices in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $12
  • Coffee and Snacks
    $4.24
  • Dinner for 2
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mexico City

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

  • Private Street Food Tour Mexico City - Best rated : $35
  • Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
  • San Juan Market Food Tour Exotic Bites & Flavors: $52
  • Coyoacán Market Food Tour Urban Eats & Local Legends: $52
  • Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $53
  • Art and Food Tour with Lunch: $54
  • Tortilla Crawl: Food Tour in Mexico City: $55
  • Mexico City Vegan & Veggie Market Explorer plus Cooking Lesson: $55
  • Private Half-Day Traditional Markets Street Food Tour in Mexico City: $57
  • 3 Hours Food Tour Best Vegan Tacos in Mexico City: $61
  • Old Town Food Tour of 7 Tastings & Secret Dish: $66
  • Frida Kahlo Museum & Coyoacan Tacos & Food Tour: $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mexico City $14
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • CDMX: Museum of Memory and Tolerance - Children in Silence (Admission ticket): $1.36
  • Museum Memory and Tolerance-Children in Silence ticket entry: $1.45
  • MUCHO Museum of Chocolate Entrance Ticket: $4.36
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $5.13
  • Mexico City (Coyoacan) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $5.16
  • Flavors of the past: A Pre-Hispanic drink tour in Mexico city. : $5.59
  • Free Mexico City Centre Tour: $5.59
  • CDMX: Museum of Memory and Tolerance - Anne Frank (Entrance ticket): $6.81
  • Hidden Gems of Exploration Game and Tour: $7.51
  • La Roma's Famous Sights and Local Lore: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Double Decker Bus Night Tour: $8.17
  • Guided tour POR the Basilica DE Guadalupe with architect: $8.34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mexico City $19
    Redwood National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City

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

  • Guided Pub Crawl with Party Games: $23
  • Mexico City Pub Crawl: $23
  • Zona Rosa Pub Crawl Experience: $94
  • Teotihuacan´s Best Balloon Flight: Pyramids and Brewery tours : $120
  • Cavas Freixenet Wine Tour from Mexico City: $222
  • Private Cheese and Wine Tour to Queretaro: $479


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Redwood National Park, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood 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 Redwood 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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.