A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Sequoia National Park for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a surreal, impressive, and magical national park. Sequoia National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Philadelphia and Sequoia 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
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 Sequoia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic 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 Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for theatre. However, Sequoia National Park is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Philadelphia. 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 Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Philadelphia has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.


Is Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for live music. However, Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Philadelphia while you're in town. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

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

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Sequoia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Sequoia National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

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

Known for its hiking, Sequoia National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Philadelphia. 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, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.

Is Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia 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.

Sequoia National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia and Sequoia National Park are both high quality 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.

Sequoia National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia 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.

Sequoia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia 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, Sequoia National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Is Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Sequoia National Park

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Philadelphia. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.


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

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

How long in Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park?

Both Philadelphia and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park than in Philadelphia. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park?

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this surreal 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 Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking 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 Sequoia National Park?

You'll find live music and food around the diverse big city of Philadelphia. 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.

Sequoia National Park is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia 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
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $152. 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 Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Sequoia National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia 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
    Sequoia National Park $53
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Sequoia National Park $31
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:

  • 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show: $45
  • 3-Hour Private Favorite & Secret Bars Walking Tour Philadelphia: $35
  • 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia: $29
  • Alexander Hamilton Private Group Walking Tour in Philadelphia: $250
  • Arabic Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia for 2 hours. : $75
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Badass Women's History Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $59
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Founding Fathers Walking Tour : $32
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $39
  • Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour: $79
  • Dark Philly Adult Night Tour: $38

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

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

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

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 Sequoia National Park, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Sequoia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sequoia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park Expensive?.


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