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

Should you visit San Antonio 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 San Antonio 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.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a fun, historic, and cultural city. San Antonio is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music. See San Antonio 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.

San Antonio and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in San Antonio or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Antonio. Although San Antonio and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, San Antonio has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Antonio is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Jasper National Park is more touristy than San Antonio and is known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty San Antonio is popular for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. It is also home to The Alamo.

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

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

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

San Antonio 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 San Antonio can be an interesting and educational experience. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

San Antonio is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Antonio makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

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

San Antonio has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park Better for Music?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Jasper National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep San Antonio active and fun. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Jasper National Park is not a live music destination.


Is San Antonio or Jasper National Park Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to San Antonio to see the historical old town. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is San Antonio or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Jasper National Park?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

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

San Antonio is a great destination for shopping. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

San Antonio is a beautiful place to visit, too. The RiverWalk feels almost like a European city and its filled with colors and festiveness.

Is San Antonio or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

San Antonio is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

San Antonio is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a great destination for romance. Also, San Antonio 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.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.


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

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options 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.

San Antonio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While its not on most backpacker's lists, it does have a fun atmosphere and a social setting.

Is San Antonio or Jasper National Park Better for Students?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

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

San Antonio is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

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

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

San Antonio 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 San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

San Antonio
Jasper National Park

San Antonio is a city with a few options for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

San Antonio is generally not very walkable. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a 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 San Antonio Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or San Antonio?

How long in San Antonio or Jasper National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.


  • How many days in San Antonio or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Antonio 2-3 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in San Antonio or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of San Antonio. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park?

San Antonio 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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park?

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

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning 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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park?

The colorful destination of San Antonio offers museums and nightlife. 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.

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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping 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 San Antonio?

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

  • San Antonio Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Antonio $161
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in San Antonio is $161, 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 San Antonio and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Antonio $69
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Antonio $138
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in San Antonio and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Antonio 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 San Antonio


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: San Antonio Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Antonio $20
    Jasper National Park $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • Private One Way Transfer from San Antonio to San Antonio Airport : $73
  • Private One-way Transfer from San Antonio Airport to San Antonio: $73
  • Private Transfer San Antonio Airport SAT to San Antonio City: $93
  • Private Transfer in a Luxury Vehicle to and/or from SAT Airport: $50
  • Private Transfer: San Antonio Airport to San Antonio by Sedan, SUV or Minibus : $98
  • Private Transfer: San Antonio to San Antonio Airport by Sedan, SUV or Minibus: $98
  • San Antonio Airport (SAT) to San Antonio - Arrival Private Transfer: $73
  • San Antonio Airport (SAT) to San Antonio - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $146
  • San Antonio to San Antonio Airport (SAT) - Departure Private Transfer: $73
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68

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 San Antonio or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $69
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

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

  • Asian Dumplings Cooking Class in San Antonio: $75
  • Asian Dumpling Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $80
  • San Antonio Centre Food Tour of 6 Tastings with Tacos & Ice Cream: $95
  • San Antonio Secret Food Tour - Tacos, BBQ & Tex-Mex Classics: $100
  • San Antonio Premium Night Driving Tour with Dinner & Cruise: $159

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.
    San Antonio $36
    Jasper National Park $7.75
Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

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


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

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

  • Historic San Antonio Audio APP and GPS Private Self Guided Tour: $9.75
  • Self-Guided Ghost Audio Tour in San Antonio App with EMF Reader: $9.75
  • San Antonio River Walk Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • San Antonio's 1/2-day History and cultural guided driving tour: $9.99
  • The Alamo Exhibit Entry Ticket: $14
  • San Antonio River Walk Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • San Antonio Private Scavenger Hunts Experience: $15
  • San Antonio Texas Audio Adventure: $15
  • River Walk Cruise Ticket: $17
  • Witte Museum Admission Ticket: $17
  • Botanical Garden Admission Ticket: $18
  • Buckhorn Saloon & Museum / Texas Ranger Museum Entry Ticket: $18

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
    San Antonio -
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • San Antonio Texas Bar Crawl: Drinks Up in San Antonio!: $15
  • River City: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Texas’ Oldest Haunted Pub Crawl Shared Walking Tour: $30
  • San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ghost Bus Pub Crawl : $62
  • Ghost Bus Haunted Pub Crawl: $62
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $179
  • Fredericksburg Hill Country Aficionado Wine Tour from San Antonio: $229


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