A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Santa Fe vs. Redwood National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Santa Fe or Redwood 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 Redwood National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a historic, charming, and artsy historic town. Santa Fe offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Santa Fe travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Santa Fe and Redwood 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
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Santa Fe or Redwood National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Fe. Although Santa Fe and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Santa Fe has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Fe is very popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Santa Fe and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Santa Fe is famous for its strong arts scene, its Pueblo-style architecture, and its unique local cuisine. It is also well known for The Museum of New Mexico Complex.

How is Santa Fe different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Santa Fe or Redwood National Park Better for Skiing?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Redwood National Park is not a skiing destination.

Head to Santa Fe for some great skiing and other winter activities. 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.

Redwood National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe. 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.

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 Santa Fe or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Santa Fe is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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 Santa Fe or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is a historic town with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Santa Fe is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.


Is Santa Fe or Redwood National Park Better for Music?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is a good destination for its music scene. However, Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Santa Fe. The town has an eclectic music scene that includes a mix of the blues, country, Latin American music, and bluegrass.

Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Santa Fe or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is very good for the beach. However, Santa Fe is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Redwood National Park to enjoy the beach. 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.

Santa Fe is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Fe or Redwood National Park Better for its Old Town?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Redwood National Park does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Santa Fe. 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.

Redwood National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Santa Fe or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for the nearby hiking options.

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

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 Redwood National Park?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is well known for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Santa Fe. There are many unique shops and art galleries that feature local artists and craftsmen.

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 Santa Fe or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a great park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Redwood National 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.

Santa Fe is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Santa Fe or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Santa Fe is not known for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. 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.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Students?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is a good destination for students. However, Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

Santa Fe is popular with students. There are a few colleges and universities in town and students will appreciate the reasonable cost of living and outdoor activities nearby.

Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

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

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is a historic town with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Santa Fe or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Santa Fe
Redwood National Park

Santa Fe is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable historic town. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.


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

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Santa Fe?

How long in Santa Fe or Redwood National Park?

In either Santa Fe or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Santa Fe has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Santa Fe than Redwood National Park. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Santa Fe, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

Couples should spend more time in Santa Fe than Redwood 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 Redwood 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 Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Santa Fe 2-5 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Santa Fe or Redwood National Park?

In Santa Fe, you'll find food and shopping. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful park of Redwood 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Fe. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this historic town. It offers something for everyone.

Redwood National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Santa Fe or Redwood National Park?

Santa Fe is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this historic town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood 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 Redwood 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 Santa Fe or Redwood National Park?

You'll find skiing and live music around the historic destination of Santa Fe. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Redwood 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 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, Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Santa Fe $190
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Santa Fe is $190, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Santa Fe $81
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Santa Fe $162
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Santa Fe and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Santa Fe or Redwood 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 Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $53

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 Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $56

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
    Redwood National Park $33

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
    Redwood National Park $11

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 Redwood National Park, we can see that Santa Fe 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 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 Redwood 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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.