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

Should you visit Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Redwood National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Phoenix travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Phoenix and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • 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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Phoenix. Although Phoenix and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Phoenix has more sights and attractions for tourists. Phoenix is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. It is also well known for Desert Botanical Garden.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Phoenix 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 Phoenix area. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

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 Phoenix or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

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

Phoenix has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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

Is Phoenix or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a park with good options for the beach. However, Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Redwood National Park. 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.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.


Is Phoenix or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Around Redwood National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

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

Many visitors go to Phoenix to go shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets 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 Phoenix or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Phoenix or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a great park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Redwood National Park. 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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Phoenix or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a great park for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Redwood National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

Is Phoenix or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for 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.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.


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

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

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

Is Phoenix or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Phoenix
Redwood National Park

Phoenix is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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 Phoenix Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

In either Phoenix 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 Phoenix because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Phoenix, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

Families should spend more time in Redwood National Park than Phoenix. 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 Phoenix or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Phoenix 1-3 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

In Phoenix, 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 Phoenix, 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 Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phoenix. 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 Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

Phoenix 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 Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the desert destination of Phoenix. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood National Park or Phoenix?

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

  • Phoenix Prices
    USA Prices
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Phoenix $276
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Phoenix is $276, 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 Phoenix and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phoenix $144
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phoenix $288
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Phoenix and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Phoenix 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 Phoenix


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: Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phoenix $39
    Redwood National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

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

  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $154
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) Private Transfer: $80
  • Phoenix to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Sky Harbor Airport Private Transfer: $195
  • Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels: $110
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Luxury SUV: $152
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Sedan Car: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park and Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $90
    Redwood National Park $56
Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

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


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Secret Food Tours Phoenix: $92
  • Phoenix Food Tour on Trendy Roosevelt Row with 7 Food Tastings: $95
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Old Town Food Tour of Hidden Gems with 6 Food Tastings: $105
  • Sunset at Desert Botanical Garden: Dinner & Walking Tour : $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Phoenix $40
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • Old Town Scottsdale's Art District: A Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Scottsdale by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Phoenix Suns Basketball Game Ticket: $10
  • Scottsdale Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket: $18
  • Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting Entry Ticket: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Mesa by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Historic Walking Tour: $25
  • RoRo Street Art Walking Tour: $25
  • Wings of Fire & Whispers of the Desert Phoenix Ghost Tours: $27
  • Drunk Shakespeare Ticket: Phoenix, AZ: $29
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Phoenix $17
    Redwood National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Phoenix Bar Crawl: $15
  • Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix: $70
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $70
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $189
  • Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix: $200


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



When is the best time to visit Phoenix or Redwood National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Phoenix or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Phoenix as well as Redwood National Park. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Phoenix this time of the year. Phoenix is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 98°F (36°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°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 Phoenix this time of the year. In the summer, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Phoenix gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

Phoenix usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Phoenix gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

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

Both Redwood National Park and Phoenix are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Phoenix is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phoenix in October average around 79°F (26°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. Phoenix gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

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

Both Redwood National Park and Phoenix during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Phoenix in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Phoenix is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 58°F (14°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. In the winter, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Phoenix gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Phoenix usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Phoenix and Redwood National Park. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Phoenix is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Redwood National Park this time of the year. In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during spring. Phoenix gets 355 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Phoenix gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Phoenix

Phoenix Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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