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

Should you visit Orlando or Jasper National Park?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Jasper 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for shopping, theater, and nightlife. See Orlando 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.

Orlando and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Jasper National Park and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

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

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

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Jasper National Park Better for Theater?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Orlando is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Jasper National Park is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Jasper National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Orlando makes for a great culinary experience. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

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

Orlando has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

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 Orlando or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Orlando is terrific for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

People visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Jasper National Park?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

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

Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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 Orlando or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Orlando is not a destination known for its 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.

Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Orlando or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Orlando is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Jasper National Park is very family-friendly. 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 Orlando or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Jasper National Park is a great national park 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.


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

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Jasper National Park Better for Students?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Orlando is a nice place to visit for students. However, Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

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

Orlando
Jasper National Park

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

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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 Orlando or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Orlando
Jasper National Park

Neither Orlando or Jasper National Park are walkable places.

Orlando is not a very walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

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

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

How long in Orlando or Jasper National Park?

In either Orlando 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 Orlando because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jasper National Park than Orlando 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 Jasper National Park.


  • How many days in Orlando or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Orlando or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

In Jasper 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 Orlando or Jasper National Park?

Orlando is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Jasper 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 Jasper National Park has to offer.


Five days in Orlando or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Orlando for five days. You'll find theater and nightlife around the city of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Jasper 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 Jasper National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Jasper National Park?

The family-friendly destination of Orlando offers nightlife and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jasper National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Jasper 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Orlando?

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

  • Orlando Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Orlando $368
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $368, 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 Orlando and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Orlando 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 Orlando


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: Orlando Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Jasper National Park $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

Also for Orlando, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport to Port Canaveral Suv Transfer up to 6 pax One Way: $187
  • Disney Hotels Private Van Transfer to/from Orlando Intl Airport : $55
  • 14 Pax Van Port Transfer TO or FROM Orlando International Airport: $245
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Orlando Airport MCO to Orlando in Business Car: $102
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $115
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO)-Departure Transfer: $95
  • Departure Transfer: Orlando to Orlando Airport MCO by Luxury SUV: $119
  • MCO Airport Private Transfer to/from Kennedy Space Center: $221
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Canaveral Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $115
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Lake Buena Vista Area Private Transfer: $73
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Orlando - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $147
  • Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer to Port Canaveral: $155

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 Orlando or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Orlando 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
    Orlando $113
    Jasper National Park $40
Typical Food Prices in Orlando

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $39
  • Flavors of ICON Park Food Tour: $40
  • St. Johns River Lunch and Dinner Cruises in Sanford, Florida: $43
  • Orlando Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Experience: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Orlando: $75
  • Immersive Pasta Making Cooking Class: $75
  • Pirates Adventure Dinner Show with Drinks: $80
  • Medieval Times Dinner Show in Orlando: $80
  • Speakeasy Murder Mystery Dinner Show in Orlando: $82
  • Titanic: First Class Dinner Gala Tickets in Orlando: $84
  • Ivanhoe Village Food Tour with Tastings: $88
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

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.
    Orlando $204
    Jasper National Park $7.75
Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Orlando by Operation City Quest: $10
  • 7-D Dark Ride Entry Ticket: $12
  • SelfGuided Scavenger Hunt:Feel the Adventure Breeze at WinterPark: $12
  • Skip the Line: Museum of Military History Ticket: $12
  • Orlando Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • Old Town Entertainment District Attraction Tickets: $15
  • Orlando City Pride- National Women's Soccer League Tickets: $18
  • Ripley's Mirror Maze Experience: $18
  • Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf Entry Ticket: $21
  • Factory Adventure Tour in Chocolate Kingdom: $24
  • Chocolate Kingdom Factory Adventure Tour: $24
  • Orlando Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

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

  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $106
  • 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
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Caribbean Moonshine Distillery Tour and Tasting: $40
  • Sanford’s Haunted Brewery Tour: $43
  • Brews and Bites Brewery Walking Tour: $75
  • 2-Hour Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $90
  • Ghost Tour and Pub Crawl: $139
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


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