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

Should you visit Nantucket or Jasper National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Nantucket and Jasper National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Nantucket 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.

Nantucket and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

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

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

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

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

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

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

Nantucket has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

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

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Nantucket or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

Nantucket is well known for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Jasper National Park Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

Nantucket is well known for its historic old town. However, Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for hiking. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.


Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Jasper National Park?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

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

Nantucket is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Is Nantucket or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Jasper National Park.

Nantucket is a very family-friendly destination. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Jasper National Park is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

Nantucket is terrific for romance. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Nantucket has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Jasper National Park is a great island 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.

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

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known 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.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

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

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Jasper National Park

Nantucket is well known for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

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

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

How long in Nantucket or Jasper National Park?

In either Nantucket 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 Nantucket because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

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


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

One day in Nantucket or Jasper National Park?

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park?

Nantucket 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 island has to offer. 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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Nantucket for five days. Nantucket is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the adventure-filled 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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park?

Because Nantucket is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Nantucket?

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

  • Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nantucket $409
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $409, 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 Nantucket and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket 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 Nantucket


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: Nantucket Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    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 Nantucket or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $141
    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.
    Nantucket $34
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

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

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving 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:

  • Canadian Rockies Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour Bundle: $50
  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $105
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Jasper National Park $11


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