A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Shenandoah National Park for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Shenandoah National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a festive, vibrant, and energetic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the food, nightlife, and live music. See New Orleans travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a serene, beautiful, and scenic national park. Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

New Orleans and Shenandoah National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in New Orleans than Shenandoah National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. New Orleans is better known for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Shenandoah National Park is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Shenandoah National Park and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Also, New Orleans is famous for The French Quarter. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Shenandoah National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with good options for skiing and snowboarding. However, New Orleans is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

New Orleans is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

Shenandoah National Park is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New Orleans is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in New Orleans have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Shenandoah National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

New Orleans is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Music?

New Orleans is renowned for its music scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a live music destination.

New Orleans has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Shenandoah National Park is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is great for its historic old town charm. However, Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

New Orleans is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Around Shenandoah National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

Shoppers can find a variety of respectable stores in both New Orleans and Shenandoah National Park.

New Orleans is a good destination for shopping. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

If you're looking to go shopping, Shenandoah National Park has some nice offerings. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park More Beautiful?

Shenandoah National Park is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly destination. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Shenandoah National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Shenandoah National Park. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Students?

New Orleans is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New Orleans is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park a more walkable city?

New Orleans is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable city. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable city. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is New Orleans Worth Visiting? and Is Shenandoah National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Shenandoah National Park or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

In either New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than New Orleans because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for New Orleans, and 3-5 days is enough time in Shenandoah National Park.

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

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

One day in New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

With live music and food around the festive city of New Orleans, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the beautiful national park of Shenandoah 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 New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

With food and nightlife around the energetic destination of New Orleans, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the breathtaking destination of Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national 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 New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the energetic city of New Orleans. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the beautiful national park of Shenandoah 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 New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

New Orleans is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the skiing when visiting Shenandoah 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Shenandoah National Park. The summer months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year.

In July, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 82°F (28°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Shenandoah National Park. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Shenandoah National Park. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

New Orleans is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

New Orleans usually gets less rain in October than Shenandoah National Park. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park in the Winter?

Both Shenandoah National Park and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Shenandoah National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, New Orleans is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in New Orleans in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Shenandoah National Park averages at about 32°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. In January, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Shenandoah National Park. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New Orleans or Shenandoah National Park in the Spring?

Both Shenandoah National Park and New Orleans during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to New Orleans in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, New Orleans is generally much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 68°F (20°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually gets more rain in April than Shenandoah National Park. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Shenandoah National Park and New Orleans