A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Death Valley National Park for Families, Backpackers, Attractions, and Couples

Should you visit Sarasota or Death Valley 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 Sarasota and Death Valley 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a entertaining, underrated, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Sarasota travel costs.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a dramatic, striking, and vast national park. Many visitors also come to Death Valley National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking. See Death Valley National Park travel costs.

Sarasota and Death Valley National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarasota. Although Sarasota and Death Valley National Park are both popular with visitors, Sarasota has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sarasota is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Death Valley National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sarasota is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. It is also home to the John and Mable Ringling Museum. Death Valley National Park is popular for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.

How is Sarasota different from Death Valley National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Sarasota specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

While most people don't head to Death Valley National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.


Is the Food Better in Sarasota or Death Valley National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is very good for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Death Valley National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is very good for its evening party scene. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sarasota. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

Death Valley National Park doesn't offer many options. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.

Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is very good for its resorts. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its luxury resorts.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Death Valley National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.


Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is very good for the beach. However, Death Valley National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Sarasota to enjoy the beach. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Death Valley National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park Better for Hiking?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is great for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Death Valley National Park for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is very good for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Many visitors go to Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.


Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park More Beautiful?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Death Valley National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The striking desert setting offers stunning beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is at its most beautiful when the sun is low during sunrise and sunset.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park Better for Families?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Death Valley National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Sarasota is one of the most popular family destinations. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Death Valley National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park Better for Couples?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Death Valley National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.


Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Death Valley National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Sarasota is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are budget friendly places to stay, but there isn't a large backpacker or young crowd hanging around.

Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Public transit is quite limited in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.

Is Sarasota or Death Valley National Park a more walkable city?

Sarasota
Death Valley National Park

Sarasota is a moderate city for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable city. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Death Valley National Park or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Sarasota or Death Valley National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sarasota due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-4 days is enough time in Death Valley National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sarasota than Death Valley 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 Sarasota.


  • How many days in Sarasota or Death Valley National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sarasota 2-5 
    Death Valley National Park 2-4

One day in Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this relaxing destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful national park of Death Valley 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 Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Death Valley 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 Death Valley National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing destination offers. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.

Death Valley 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 Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Sarasota. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Death Valley 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 national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Death Valley National Park or Sarasota?

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

  • Sarasota Prices
    USA Prices
    Death Valley National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sarasota $350
    Death Valley National Park $101

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $350, while the average daily cost in Death Valley National Park is $101. 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 Sarasota and Death Valley National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    Death Valley National Park $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    Death Valley National Park $74
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and Death Valley National Park

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota or Death Valley 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 Sarasota


Hotels in Death Valley 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: Sarasota Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    Death Valley National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

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

  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $55
  • Sarasota Airport(SRQ) to Anna Maria island hotel-Arrival Transfer: $125
  • Sarasota Airport (SRQ) to Anna Maria island - Round-Trip Transfer: $251

Is it cheaper to fly into Sarasota or Death Valley National Park?

Prices for flights to both Death Valley National Park and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $238
    Death Valley National Park $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    Death Valley National Park $36

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Palmetto Ghost & History Tour by Silent Slayer Ghost Tours: $40
  • Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour: $55
  • Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour: $55
  • Siesta Key: Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboard Tour: $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure : $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
  • Siesta Key Guided Eco Tour: $59
  • Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour: $59
  • Glass Bottom Kayak Fish Feeding LED Night Tour: $59
  • Siesta Key Kayak Tour : $60
  • Sarasota Waterways Tour for All Ages: $60
  • Sharkey's Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Sarasota: $62

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Death Valley National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Death Valley National Park: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sarasota -
    Death Valley National Park $8.57


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Sarasota Expensive? and Is Death Valley National Park Expensive?.