A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Redwood National Park vs. Calgary for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Redwood National Park or Calgary?

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 Calgary. 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. The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Calgary

Calgary is a authentic, western, and local city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Calgary travel costs.

Redwood National Park and Calgary: 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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Redwood National Park. Although Redwood National Park and Calgary are both popular with visitors, Redwood National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Redwood National Park is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Calgary is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Redwood National Park is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. It is also home to Stout Grove. Calgary is popular for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.

How is Redwood National Park different from Calgary?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Redwood National Park
Calgary

Calgary 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 Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.

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 Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a city with a few options for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.

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 Calgary Better for Nightlife?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

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

Calgary has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.

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 Calgary Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

Redwood National Park is a park with good options for the beach. However, Calgary 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.

Calgary is not a beach destination.


Is Redwood National Park or Calgary Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Calgary is not a hiking destination.

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.

Calgary is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Calgary?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

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

Many visitors go to Calgary to go shopping. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.

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 Calgary More Beautiful?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

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

The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. 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.

Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Redwood National Park or Calgary Better for Families?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

Redwood National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Redwood National Park is a very kid-friendly 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.

Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.

Is Redwood National Park or Calgary Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

Redwood National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Redwood National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Calgary is a good park for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.

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

Redwood National Park
Calgary

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Redwood National Park. 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 backpackers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.


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

Redwood National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a good destination for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Calgary, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.

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

Is Redwood National Park or Calgary a more walkable city?

Redwood National Park
Calgary

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

Calgary is generally not very walkable. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.

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 Calgary Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Redwood National Park or Calgary?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Redwood National Park or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Redwood National Park than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.

Families should spend more time in Redwood National Park than Calgary. 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 Redwood National Park or Calgary? Ideal Length of Stay
    Redwood National Park 3-5 
    Calgary 1-2

One day in Redwood National Park or Calgary?

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 Calgary, 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 Calgary, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Redwood National Park or Calgary?

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 Calgary. 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 Calgary?

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.

Calgary 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.

A week in Redwood National Park or Calgary?

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 shopping and museums around the authentic destination of Calgary. 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.


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 Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Calgary 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
    Calgary Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Redwood National Park $135
    Calgary $177

The average daily cost (per person) in Redwood National Park is $135, while the average daily cost in Calgary is $177. 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 Calgary in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Redwood National Park $44
    Calgary $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Redwood National Park $88
    Calgary $146
Compare Hotels in Redwood National Park and Calgary

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


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: Calgary Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Redwood National Park $53
    Calgary $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Luxury SUV: $141
  • Banff (Canmore) to Calgary Airport | Private Transfer: $215
  • Banff Lake Louise or Canmore and Calgary Private Shuttle Transfer: $61
  • Banff/Canmore to Calgary or YYC Airport Private Transfer: $212
  • Banff: Private Transfer to Calgary Airport or Calgary: $126
  • Black Car Airport Transfers in Bow Valley: $295
  • Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $101
  • Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $202
  • Calgary Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise - Arrival Private Transfer: $208
  • Calgary Airport Transfer to/from Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise: $45
  • Calgary Airport to Banff (Canmore) | Private Transfer: $215
  • Calgary Airport to Banff and Beyond Transfer Service: $65

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

Prices for flights to both Calgary 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
    Calgary $54

Typical Food Prices in Calgary

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:


  • Bread, Chips, Cheese
    $8.10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Calgary.

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
  • Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
  • Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $80
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $127
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Redwood National Park $33
    Calgary $15

Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary

Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Stampede Admission (for 2)
    $22

Tours and Activities in Calgary

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

  • Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 3-Hour: $4.02
  • Calgary City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based : $5.00
  • Downtown Calgary a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.63
  • Sam Centre Calgary Stampede Museum Ticket: $7.18
  • Discover Calgary with 3 Smartphone Audio Walking Tours: $15
  • Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour: $21
  • Shared Tour from Calgary to Moraine, Lake Louise and Emerald Lake: $28
  • Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $28
  • Heritage Park Historical Village Admission Ticket: $29
  • Victoria Park Mural Tour of Calgary: $37
  • Calgary Self Guided Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt: $42
  • Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Half Day Tour: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Redwood National Park $11
    Calgary $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary

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

  • Brewery Tours at Award Winning Venues: $82
  • Calgary Brewery Tour: $88


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