A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. Olympic National Park for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nantucket or Olympic 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 Olympic National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nantucket travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a vast, pristine, and stunning park. Olympic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

Nantucket and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Olympic National Park are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Olympic National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse. Olympic National Park is famous for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Nantucket different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Nantucket or Olympic National Park.

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.

Olympic National Park offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.


Is the Food Better in Nantucket or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Nantucket is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

For foodies, Nantucket is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Olympic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Nantucket or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Nantucket is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. 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.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Nantucket or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Nantucket and Olympic National Park.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Olympic National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.


Is Nantucket or Olympic National Park Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Nantucket is a well-known place for the beach. However, Olympic National Park is not a beach destination.

Nantucket is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Olympic National Park is not a beach destination. The park has a rugged coastline with sandy beaches. Many people enjoy exploring the tidal pools or watching the sun set. Some of the best beaches include Kalaloch Beach, Beach 4, and Ruby Beach.

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

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nantucket. 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.

Olympic National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Olympic 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 Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

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 Olympic National Park?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Nantucket is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Nantucket or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Nantucket and Olympic National Park both are comparable with their great scenery and beauty.

Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

The beauty of Olympic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The diversity of landscapes give the park a unique beauty. You can explore old growth rainforests, wander down pristine beaches, or take in the stunning mountain views.

Is Nantucket or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Olympic 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.

Olympic National Park is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.


Is Nantucket or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Nantucket is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for couples.

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

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

Many backpackers frequent Olympic National Park. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Nantucket is a popular place for its public transit. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is mostly limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.


Is Nantucket or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Olympic National Park

Nantucket is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable island. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

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

How long in Nantucket or Olympic National Park?

In either Nantucket or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Olympic 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 Olympic National Park.

Families should spend more time in Nantucket than Olympic 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 Olympic 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 Olympic 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 Olympic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantucket 2-4 
    Olympic National Park 2-5

One day in Nantucket or Olympic National Park?

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

You'll find museums around the park of Olympic National Park. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums around the stunning destination of Olympic 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 park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nantucket or Olympic National Park?

Nantucket is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums around the pristine park of Olympic National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

A week in Nantucket or Olympic National Park?

Nantucket is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Olympic National Park is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nantucket $409
    Olympic National Park $150

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $409, while the average daily cost in Olympic National Park is $150. 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 Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket or Olympic 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 Olympic 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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Olympic National Park $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantucket or Olympic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    Olympic National Park $26

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 Olympic National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Olympic National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Olympic National Park: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Olympic National Park $5.57


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



When is the best time to visit Nantucket or Olympic National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nantucket or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

Both Olympic National Park and Nantucket during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nantucket is a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantucket in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

Nantucket usually gets more rain in July than Olympic National Park. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C) 
    Olympic National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Olympic National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Olympic National Park this time of year.

In October, Nantucket is generally a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 53°F (12°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nantucket usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C) 
    Olympic National Park 51°F (10°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Olympic National Park. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Olympic National Park. It's quite cold in Nantucket in the winter. Nantucket is much colder than Olympic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nantucket usually gets less rain in January than Olympic National Park. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C) 
    Olympic National Park 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

Both Olympic National Park and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Olympic National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nantucket is cooler than Olympic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantucket in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 47°F (8°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In April, Nantucket usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C) 
    Olympic National Park 47°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Nantucket

Nantucket Olympic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 41°F (5°C) 13.7 inches (349 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 43°F (6°C) 12.2 inches (311 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 44°F (7°C) 11.6 inches (294 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 47°F (8°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 52°F (11°C) 5.6 inches (142 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 58°F (14°C) 5 inches (126 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 51°F (10°C) 10.4 inches (263 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 45°F (7°C) 14 inches (355 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 41°F (5°C) 15 inches (380 mm)


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