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

Should you visit Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

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 Saint Louis and Jasper National Park. 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.

Saint Louis

Saint Louis is a under rated, unexpected, and fascinating city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Saint Louis travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. The famous beauty of Jasper National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Saint Louis and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • 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 popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Louis. Although Saint Louis and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Saint Louis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Louis is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Jasper National Park is more touristy than Saint Louis and is known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Saint Louis is popular for its blues and live music scene, its authentic personality, and its position as the Gateway to the West. It is also home to the Gateway Arch.

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

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

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

Saint Louis is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Saint Louis that are not to be missed. There are a surprising number of museums around town. For art museums you should visit the Contemporary Art Museum, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. For history, the Griot Museum of Black History, the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum, and the Lewis & Clark Museum and Boathouse are all interesting. There are also science, educational, and children's museums. And of course, there's the iconic Gateway Arch.

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 Saint Louis or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

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

Saint Louis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are some local dishes that originated here. Toasted ravioli had its start in St. Louis. There's also a St. Louis style pizza. Diners, cafes, and sandwiches are all part of the food scene and be prepared for cheese, meaty, and satisfying.

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 Saint Louis or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

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

Saint Louis has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Visitors often hang out in the downtown area, particularly around Washington Avenue, for the nightlife scene. Live music is popular, especially the blues, and there are many local venues worth checking out.

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 Saint Louis or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

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

Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

Saint Louis is well known for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Saint Louis is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are vintage stores, boutiques, and suburban strip malls around town. There are also farmer's markets and art galleries.

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 Saint Louis or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Louis is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Jasper National Park is one of the main draws. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Saint Louis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Louis or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

Both Saint Louis and Jasper National Park are great family-friendly destinations.

Saint Louis is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of activities for kids around town. There's the St. Louis Zoo and the City Museum with many hands-on exhibits for kids. There's also the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary and several farms with animals and nature. Forest Park is an impressive urban park as well.

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


Is Saint Louis or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is well known for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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

Saint Louis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fine dining restaurants and eclectic activities make this city an often overlooked couples destination.

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

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Louis is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Jasper National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Saint Louis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of affordable motels around town but no real hostels.

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

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

Saint Louis is well known for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Saint Louis can move around easily with public transportation. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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 Saint Louis or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Louis
Jasper National Park

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

Saint Louis is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, like the downtown area and the sections around the Gateway Arch.

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 Saint Louis Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

In either Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Saint Louis, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis.


  • How many days in Saint Louis or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Louis 1-3 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Saint Louis. 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 Saint Louis has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning national park of Jasper National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

Saint Louis 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Jasper National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Saint Louis for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Saint Louis. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the adventure-filled national park of Jasper National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

The fascinating destination of Saint Louis offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Jasper National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Saint Louis?

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

  • Saint Louis Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Louis $224
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Louis is $224, 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 Saint Louis and Jasper National Park in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis


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: Saint Louis Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Louis $26
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint Louis

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Saint Louis:

  • Arrival transfer St. Louis Airport STL to St. Louis by Car or SUV: $125
  • Departure Transfer St. Louis to St. Louis Airport by Car or SUV: $125
  • St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) to St. Louis City - Arrival Private Transfer: $142

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 Saint Louis or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Saint Louis 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
    Saint Louis $93
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Louis

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

  • Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show - St. Louis, MO: $89

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.
    Saint Louis $46
    Jasper National Park $7.75
Typical Entertainment Prices in Saint Louis

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


  • Gateway Arch parking
    $6.00

Tours and Activities in Saint Louis

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

  • Downtown St. Louis Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour App: $7.75
  • Interstate 55: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • St. Louis Blues Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Enterprise Center: $13
  • Gateway Arch National Park Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Saint Louis Self Guided Driving and Walking Audio Tour: $17
  • Landmarks Downtown-West Walking Tour: $17
  • Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour: $17
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in St. Louis by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Lemp Haunted Neighborhood Walking Tour: $27
  • St Louis Ghost Tours: Sinister Sins & Shadows Ghost Tour : $30
  • St. Louis Soulard True Crime Tour: Historic Murders & Gangsters: $30
  • St. Louis Narrated Trolley Tour: $30

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
  • Canadian Rockies Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour Bundle: $50
  • 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
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $66
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Louis $19
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint Louis

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Saint Louis:

  • The Haunted Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour: $25


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