A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Norfolk vs. Joshua Tree National Park for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

Should I visit Norfolk 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Norfolk travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Norfolk and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • 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
  • Less walkable


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

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Norfolk have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Norfolk is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Joshua Tree National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Joshua Tree National Park is more touristy than Norfolk and is popular for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

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

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

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Norfolk is a city with good options for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Norfolk. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Norfolk is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Norfolk is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

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 Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Norfolk is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Norfolk. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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 Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park?

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Norfolk is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Norfolk has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

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 Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park More Beautiful?

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.


Is Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Joshua Tree National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

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

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Joshua Tree National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

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

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Norfolk is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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


Is Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Joshua Tree National Park

Norfolk is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown is the most walkable part 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 Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4

One day in Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic city of Norfolk. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Joshua Tree National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Norfolk. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Joshua Tree National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Joshua Tree National Park has to offer.


Five days in Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park?

Norfolk is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park?

Norfolk 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Joshua Tree National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Joshua Tree National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Joshua Tree National Park or Norfolk?

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

  • Norfolk Prices
    USA Prices
    Joshua Tree National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Norfolk $202
    Joshua Tree National Park $177

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $202, while the average daily cost in Joshua Tree National Park is $177. 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 Norfolk and Joshua Tree National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Norfolk $84
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Norfolk $168
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
Compare Hotels in Norfolk and Joshua Tree National Park

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk or Joshua Tree 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 Norfolk


Hotels in Joshua Tree 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: Norfolk Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Joshua Tree National Park $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Norfolk or Joshua Tree National Park?

Prices for flights to both Joshua Tree National Park and Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $85
    Joshua Tree National Park $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Norfolk.

  • City Cruises Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise: $57
  • City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise : $103
  • 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks: $210

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Norfolk $14
    Joshua Tree National Park $27

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • City Cruises Signature Lunch Cruise: $84
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Half-Day Self-Guided Tour E-Bike Rental in Norfolk: $75
  • Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin: $40
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $42

Tours and Activities in Joshua Tree National Park

For Joshua Tree National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Rappelling Experience: $255
  • From San Diego: Joshua Tree National Park Private Tour: $949

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Norfolk $10
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Norfolk Bar Crawl: $15


When comparing the travel costs between Norfolk and Joshua Tree National Park, we can see that Norfolk is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


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