A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Santa Fe vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Santa Fe and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a artsy, cultural, and historic historic town. Santa Fe is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for skiing, live music, and food. See Santa Fe travel costs.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a vast, overlooked, and underrated park. With stunning beauty, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park travel costs.

Santa Fe and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santa Fe than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santa Fe is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Santa Fe is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its strong arts scene, its Pueblo-style architecture, and its unique local cuisine. Also, Santa Fe is famous for The Museum of New Mexico Complex. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Santa Fe different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Skiing?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a historic town with good options for snow skiing. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a skiing destination.

Santa Fe is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. There are a few good ski resorts not far from Santa Fe. Popular options include Taos Ski Valley, Ski Santa Fe, Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, and Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a historic town with good options for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

Santa Fe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Head to the Museum of New Mexico Complex, which has four museums that give a great overview of the history of the area. Also make sure you visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.

Is the Food Better in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santa Fe makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local restaurants that use regional ingredients and offer great flavors. There are also cafes and bistros where you can enjoy breakfast or brunch. Local dishes include sopaipillas made with Native American fry bread, slow-cooked beans, and anything made with red and green chili peppers.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a moderate historic town for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Santa Fe specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. While most of the town quiets down at night, the city has a few areas that stay active late into the night. Live music is popular and diverse. It often includes different genres such as the blues, country, salsa or bluegrass.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.


Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Music?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a historic town with good options for live music. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Santa Fe. The town has an eclectic music scene that includes a mix of the blues, country, Latin American music, and bluegrass.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for its Old Town?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have a historic old town.

Santa Fe is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. As the 2nd oldest city in the United States, the old town historic district is filled with charm. The Pueblo-style buildings are brightly colored and there are churches throughout.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park for hiking. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking trails. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Santa Fe has hiking trails worth exploring. Because it's located right by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there are many beautiful hikes right outside of town. Popular trails include the Picacho Peak Trail and the Nambe Lake Trail. Bandelier National also has many places to hike.


Is the Shopping Better in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a well-known place for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Santa Fe is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many unique shops and art galleries that feature local artists and craftsmen.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park More Beautiful?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park for its scenery and beauty. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful lakes and mountains, without the large crowds of the more well-known parks, make this a great natural destination.

Santa Fe is a gorgeous place to visit. This cultural city has a unique beauty that is hard to find anywhere else.

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Santa Fe offers lots of family activities. There are a few kids' museums in Santa Fe including the Santa Fe Children's Museum and the Meow Wolf Art Complex. Kids also enjoy the botanical gardens at Museum Hill and Bandelier National Monument just outside of the city.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.


Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park for couples. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for romance.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

Santa Fe is a nice destination for couples. There are many romantic inns around town, each with a lot of character. The town also has a lot of atmosphere that makes for a romantic getaway.

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Santa Fe is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Santa Fe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel in town as well as several campgrounds.

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Students?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a historic town with good options for students. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.

Santa Fe is a good historic town to visit for students. There are a few colleges and universities in town and students will appreciate the reasonable cost of living and outdoor activities nearby.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.


Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a moderate historic town for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Santa Fe. There is a bus system - the Santa Fe Trails Bus Service.

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

Is Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Santa Fe
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Santa Fe is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

Santa Fe is very walkable. The historic district is walkable and it's easy to visit most of the tourist sights in this area on foot.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable historic town. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Santa Fe Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Santa Fe?

How long in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Fe than Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Santa Fe.


  • How many days in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Santa Fe 2-5 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Santa Fe, many people enjoy the museums and skiing that this destination offers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beautiful park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Santa Fe, a popular historic town, is full of activities for travelers. In Santa Fe, many people enjoy the skiing and live music that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Santa Fe, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic town offers. If you have five days, this historic town makes for a great vacation. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Santa Fe is a popular choice for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great place to explore. 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 park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Santa Fe?

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

  • Santa Fe Prices
    USA Prices
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Santa Fe $190
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Santa Fe is $190, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $148. 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 Santa Fe and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Santa Fe $81
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Santa Fe $162
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Santa Fe and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Santa Fe


Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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: Santa Fe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Santa Fe $61
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santa Fe

Also for Santa Fe, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • New Mexico: Private Transfer from Santa Fe Regional Airport: $196

Is it cheaper to fly into Santa Fe or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Santa Fe 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
    Santa Fe $75
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santa Fe

For Santa Fe, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • New Mexican Flavors Food Tour of the Santa Fe Plaza: $187
  • Wander New Mexico Food Tour - Downtown Plaza 'Sip & Savor': $209
  • Santa Fe Farmers Market & Railyard Food Tour: $213
  • Savor Wine Pairing Dinner: $234
  • Downtown Plaza "Sip and Savor" Half-day Food Tour: $239

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Santa Fe $17
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Santa Fe

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

  • Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self Guided GPS Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Santa Fe Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Santa Fe NM: $15
  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour of Historic Santa Fe: $15
  • Santa Fe Botanical Garden General Admission Ticket : $17
  • Meow Wolf The House of Eternal Return Ticket: $35
  • Allan Houser Sculpture Garden and Studio Tour: $35
  • Canyon Road Art & History Walking Tour: $69
  • Canyon Road Art & History Walking Tour: $70
  • Santa Fe Chocolate Tasting and History Exploration Tour : $80
  • Small Group History Walking Tour Thru Santa Fe a City Different: $98
  • Santa Fe Deep Dive History Walking Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Santa Fe $9.68
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Santa Fe

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

  • Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery Tour and Tasting: $18
  • Architectural Walking Tour & Wine Tasting: $135
  • Join in Wine Tours: $145


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Santa Fe and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, we can see that Santa Fe is more expensive. And not only is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Santa Fe would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Santa Fe than you might in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Santa Fe Expensive? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Expensive?.