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

Should you visit Redwood National Park or Boulder?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Redwood National Park and Boulder. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Redwood National Park

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

Boulder

Boulder is a nature-filled, biker-friendly, and outdoorsy city. Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and hiking. See Boulder travel costs.

Redwood National Park and Boulder: Pros and Cons

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 popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boulder. Although Redwood National Park and Boulder are both popular with visitors, Boulder has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boulder is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Redwood National Park is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Boulder and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Boulder is popular for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries. It is also home to The Flatirons.

How is Redwood National Park different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boulder and Redwood National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Redwood National Park or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Boulder is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Redwood National Park is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Boulder for snow skiing. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Redwood National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Boulder is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

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

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Boulder 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 Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

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 Redwood National Park or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

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

Boulder has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

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


Is Redwood National Park or Boulder Better for Music?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Boulder is a good destination for its music scene. However, Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Redwood National Park is a good destination for the beach. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Boulder is not a beach destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

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

Redwood National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Boulder is a popular spot for hiking. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.


Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Boulder?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

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

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

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 Redwood National Park or Boulder More Beautiful?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and 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.

Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Is Redwood National Park or Boulder Better for Families?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Redwood National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.


Is Redwood National Park or Boulder Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Redwood National Park is a great park for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Boulder is a good park for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

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

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Is Redwood National Park or Boulder Better for Students?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Boulder is well known for students. However, Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Redwood National Park is not popular with students.


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

Redwood National Park
Boulder

Boulder 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 Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

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

Is Redwood National Park or Boulder a more walkable city?

Redwood National Park
Boulder

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

Boulder is a somewhat walkable city. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Redwood National Park or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Redwood National Park and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than in Boulder. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

Families should spend more time in Redwood National Park than Boulder. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boulder than Redwood 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 Boulder.


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

One day in Redwood National Park or Boulder?

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.

In Boulder, you'll find food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.


A weekend in Redwood National Park or Boulder?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boulder. 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.

Five days in Redwood National Park or Boulder?

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.

Boulder is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Redwood National Park or Boulder?

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.

You'll find live music and food around the nature-filled destination of Boulder. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boulder or Redwood National Park?

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

  • Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Boulder Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Redwood National Park $135
    Boulder $231

The average daily cost (per person) in Redwood National Park is $135, while the average daily cost in Boulder is $231. 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 Redwood National Park and Boulder in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Redwood National Park $44
    Boulder $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Redwood National Park $88
    Boulder $204
Compare Hotels in Redwood National Park and Boulder

Looking for a hotel in Redwood National Park or Boulder? 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 Redwood National Park


Hotels in Boulder


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: Boulder Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Redwood National Park $53
    Boulder $51

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

Prices for flights to both Boulder and Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $56
    Boulder $94

Typical Food Prices in Boulder

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


  • 2 Coffees
    $8.75
  • Nice Dinner for Two
    $71

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

Tours and Activities in Boulder

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

  • Downtown Boulder Smartphone Guided Audio GPS Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Boulder CO: $15
  • University of Colorado Boulder Campus Adventure: $15
  • Bones, Burials, & Ballads: Boulder Ghost Tours: $24
  • Boulder Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Boulder Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Boulder Ghost Tour: $35
  • Guided Astronomy Tour: $45
  • Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon Combo Tour: $52
  • Boulder Flatirons Private Photo Adventure: $85
  • Boulder Joyride Guided eBike Tour: $95
  • The Boulder Joyride eBike Tour: $95

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Redwood National Park $11
    Boulder $27


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