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

Should you visit Norfolk or Redwood National Park?

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

Should I visit Norfolk 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Norfolk travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Norfolk and Redwood 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
  • 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
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Norfolk or Redwood National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Redwood National Park than Norfolk, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Redwood National Park is better known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Norfolk is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Also, Redwood National Park is famous for Stout Grove. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk 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 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 Redwood National Park?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Norfolk is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

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 Norfolk or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Norfolk is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Norfolk area. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

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 Norfolk or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Norfolk is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Norfolk has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

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

Is Norfolk or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for its beaches. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.


Is Norfolk or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

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

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Redwood National Park?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Norfolk is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Norfolk to go shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

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 Norfolk or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. 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.

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Norfolk or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Redwood 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.

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.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

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

Couples visit Redwood National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

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

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Norfolk is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Is Norfolk or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Redwood National Park

Norfolk is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Redwood National Park?

In either Norfolk or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Norfolk because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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


  • How many days in Norfolk or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Norfolk or Redwood National Park?

In Norfolk, you'll find shopping and museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Norfolk, one day is sufficent for most.

In Redwood 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 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Norfolk. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

In Redwood National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Norfolk or Redwood National Park?

Norfolk is a fun place to experience. 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.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Redwood National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the maritime destination of Norfolk. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Redwood 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, Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Norfolk $202
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $202, 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 Norfolk and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Norfolk $84
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Norfolk $168
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Norfolk and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk 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 Norfolk


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: Norfolk Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Redwood National Park $53

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 Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $56

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
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Norfolk $10
    Redwood National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Norfolk Bar Crawl: $15


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



When is the best time to visit Norfolk or Redwood 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 Norfolk or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

Both Redwood National Park and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Norfolk is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 79°F (26°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during summer. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Norfolk. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and Norfolk during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

Norfolk is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the autumn, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets more rain in October than Redwood National Park. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Redwood National Park. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year.

It's quite cold in Norfolk in the winter. In the winter, Norfolk is much colder than Redwood National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Norfolk in January average around 39°F (4°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during winter. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

Redwood National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Norfolk usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Redwood National Park. Additionally, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Norfolk is generally a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 58°F (14°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In the spring, Norfolk often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Redwood National Park. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Norfolk

Norfolk Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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