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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Jasper National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Jasper National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a breathtaking, adventure-filled, and stunning national park. Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Philadelphia and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • 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
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Jasper National Park are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Jasper National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Jasper National Park is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

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

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

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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.


Is Philadelphia or Jasper National Park Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia is well known for theatre. However, Jasper National Park is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Jasper National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia 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, Philadelphia makes for a great culinary experience. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia is well known for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Philadelphia is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia or Jasper National Park Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia is well known for live music. However, Jasper National Park is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Jasper National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Jasper National Park Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Jasper National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Jasper National Park?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

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

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia and Jasper National Park are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Jasper National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Philadelphia or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Jasper National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

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

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Jasper National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Jasper National Park Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia is well known for students. However, Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.


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

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia is well known for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Philadelphia can move around easily with public transportation. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Jasper National Park

Philadelphia is terrific for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

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

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

How long in Philadelphia or Jasper National Park?

In either Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Jasper 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 Philadelphia.


  • How many days in Philadelphia or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Philadelphia or Jasper National Park?

Philadelphia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Philadelphia or Jasper National Park?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Jasper National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Philadelphia for five days. You'll find theater and nightlife around the city of Philadelphia. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Philadelphia or Jasper National Park?

The cultural big city of Philadelphia offers nightlife and live music. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jasper National Park is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to 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 Philadelphia?

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

  • Philadelphia Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, 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 Philadelphia and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia


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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Arrival Private Transfer: $109
  • Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $210
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Private Transfer Philadephia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Sedan: $94
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Luxury SUV: $115
  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130

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 Philadelphia or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $84
    Jasper National Park $40
Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Nibble Food Tour: $58
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour: $59
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Behind The Scenes Food Tour: South Philly & Italian Market: $95
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $105
  • City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $123

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.
    Philadelphia $28
    Jasper National Park $7.75
Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Philadelphia Haunted Ghost Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $12
  • Philadelphia Architecture: Discover Every American Style on a GPS Audio Tour: $12
  • Philadelphia 76ers Basketball Game Ticket at Wells Fargo Center: $12
  • University of Pennsylvania Scavenger Hunt Experience: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Philadelphia with Holly Jolly: $20
  • The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $24
  • The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour: $25
  • Museum of the American Revolution Admission Ticket with Audio Guided Option: $27
  • Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia: $29
  • 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia: $29

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
    Philadelphia $21
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Philadelphia Prohibition Pub Crawl: $50
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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