A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sequoia National Park vs. Calgary for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sequoia National Park and Calgary can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a impressive, magical, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of Sequoia National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Calgary

Calgary is a western, local, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Calgary travel costs.

Sequoia National Park and Calgary: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park. Although Sequoia National Park and Calgary are popular destinations, Sequoia National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sequoia National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Calgary attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Calgary and is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. It is also well known for the General Sherman tree. Calgary is famous for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.

How is Sequoia National Park different from Calgary?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a city with good options for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Calgary is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Sequoia National Park or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sequoia National Park and Calgary can be difficult as they are each reasonable in their own way.

Sequoia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Calgary. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.

Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary Better for Nightlife?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Calgary. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary Better for Resorts?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Sequoia National Park is a national park with a few options for its resorts. However, Calgary is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Calgary is not a resort destination.


Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary Better for Hiking?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Calgary is not a hiking destination.

Around Sequoia National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Calgary is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a city with good options for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Calgary. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.

Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary More Beautiful?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Sequoia National Park is one of the main draws. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary Better for Families?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Sequoia National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Sequoia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.

Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary Better for Couples?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Sequoia National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Sequoia National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Calgary is a good national park for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.

Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sequoia National Park. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Plenty of backpackers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.


Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Calgary is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Calgary has some public transit options. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Is Sequoia National Park or Calgary a more walkable city?

Sequoia National Park
Calgary

Sequoia National Park and Calgary are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Sequoia National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

Calgary is generally not very walkable. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.

For even more information, also check out Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Calgary or Sequoia National Park?

How long in Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Sequoia National Park or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Sequoia National Park than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Sequoia National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sequoia National Park than Calgary 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 Sequoia National Park.


  • How many days in Sequoia National Park or Calgary? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sequoia National Park 2-7 
    Calgary 1-2

One day in Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Calgary, you'll find shopping and museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Calgary, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sequoia National Park has to offer.

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

Five days in Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

Sequoia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sequoia National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Calgary is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sequoia National Park. In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the local destination of Calgary. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Sequoia National Park?

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

  • Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Calgary Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sequoia National Park $152
    Calgary $177

The average daily cost (per person) in Sequoia National Park is $152, while the average daily cost in Calgary is $177. 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 Sequoia National Park and Calgary in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sequoia National Park $64
    Calgary $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sequoia National Park $128
    Calgary $146
Compare Hotels in Sequoia National Park and Calgary

Looking for a hotel in Sequoia National Park or Calgary? 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 Sequoia National Park


Hotels in Calgary


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: Calgary Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $56
    Calgary $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:

  • Transfer from Calgary Airport: $51
  • Private Transfers during Calgary Stampede: $72
  • Private Transfer: Calgary Airport to Downtown: $110
  • Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary by Luxury SUV: $138
  • Private Transfer within Calgary from Airport or Hotels: $111
  • Private Transfer from Calgary to Calgary Airport YYC in Luxury Van: $141
  • Private Transfer from Calgary to Calgary Airport YYC in Luxury SUV: $141
  • Private Transfer from Calgary to Calgary Airport YYC in Business Car: $118
  • Private Transfer from Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Business Car: $118
  • From Bus Transfer to Jasper: $154
  • From Bus Transfer to Banff: $60
  • From Calgary YYC Airport: Hassle-free Private Transfer to Banff.: $146

Is it cheaper to fly into Sequoia National Park or Calgary?

Prices for flights to both Calgary and Sequoia National Park 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
    Sequoia National Park $53
    Calgary $54

Typical Food Prices in Calgary

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:


  • Bread, Chips, Cheese
    $8.10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary

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

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $62
  • Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
  • Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $80
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $127
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $31
    Calgary $15

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary

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


  • Stampede Admission (for 2)
    $22

Tours and Activities in Calgary

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

  • 1 Day Tour | Banff | Moraine Lake | Lake Louise | From Calgary: $80
  • 1 Day of Banff Viewpoints Lakes Bow Valley in Private Custom Tour: $88
  • 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Guided Group Tour : $131
  • 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands in Private Custom Tour: $88
  • 1 Hour Shared Winter Sleigh Ride Experience in Kananaskis: $39
  • 2-Day Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Columbia Icefield Rockies Tour: $80
  • 3 Day Banff Moraine Lake Louise Johnston Columbia Icefield Tour : $241
  • 6-Hour Private City Tour Drive to Calgary Tower: $682
  • Airport Pickup & Private Tour from Calgary to The Rockies!: $256
  • Badlands Tour: Drumheller with Museum, Hoodoos & Coal Mine: $121
  • Banff Big 3 Moraine Lake, Lake Louise and Emerald Lake Tour: $176
  • Banff Explorer™ Private Tour with Moraine Lake & Lake Louise: $537

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sequoia National Park $7.84
    Calgary $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary

Also in Calgary, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Brewery Tours at Award Winning Venues: $82
  • Calgary Brewery Tour: $88


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

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