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

Should you visit Richmond or Jasper National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Richmond and Jasper National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Richmond travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a adventure-filled, stunning, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Richmond and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less walkable


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

Both Jasper National Park and Richmond have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Richmond is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Jasper National Park is more touristy than Richmond and is known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

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

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

Richmond
Jasper National Park

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Richmond can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Richmond offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

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 Richmond or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Richmond is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Richmond has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

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 Richmond or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Jasper National Park?

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Richmond is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Richmond is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

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 Richmond or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Richmond or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Richmond or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Jasper National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

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

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Jasper National Park is a very popular national park to visit 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.

Richmond is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination, and most people breeze through town.

Is Richmond or Jasper National Park Better for Students?

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Richmond is a nice place to visit for students. However, Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

Richmond is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.


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

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Richmond is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

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 Richmond or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Richmond
Jasper National Park

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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 Richmond Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Richmond or Jasper National Park?

In either Richmond 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 Richmond because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Richmond, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Richmond 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 Richmond.


  • How many days in Richmond or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Richmond or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Richmond. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Richmond has to offer.

The beautiful national park of Jasper National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Richmond or Jasper National Park?

Richmond 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jasper National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Richmond or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Richmond for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Richmond. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Jasper National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jasper National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Richmond or Jasper National Park?

The friendly destination of Richmond offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in 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 Richmond?

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

  • Richmond Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Richmond $176
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $176, 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 Richmond and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Richmond 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 Richmond


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: Richmond Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $175
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $175

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 Richmond or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Richmond 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
    Richmond $36
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • Church Hill Food Tour: $89
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $89
  • The Carytown Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Church Hill Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond with Discover Richmond: $90
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $94
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $99

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.
    Richmond $13
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • The Haunted History of Richmond tour: $25
  • Uncivil Wards History Tour: $25
  • The Church Hill tour with Historian Jane: $25
  • Shadows of Shockoe Ghost Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $27
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $27
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $27
  • Creepy Tales on Campus Ghost Tour: $27
  • Specters & Shades of Court End Ghost Tour: $27

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

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

  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Jasper National Park: $14
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour: $62
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Morning Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour: $64
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $67
  • Jasper Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour with Maligne Lake Hike: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

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

  • Richmond Virginia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $37
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $86
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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