A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sequoia National Park vs. Seattle for Hiking, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Sequoia National Park or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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 breathtaking, surreal, and impressive national park. You'll find world class beauty in Sequoia National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and beaches. See Seattle travel costs.

Sequoia National Park and Seattle: 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Sequoia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seattle is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Sequoia National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Seattle and is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Sequoia National Park different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seattle 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 Seattle?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

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 Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Theater?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a city with good options for theatre. However, Sequoia National Park is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Sequoia National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. 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.

Is Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Seattle has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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


Is Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Music?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for live music. However, Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Sequoia National Park is a moderate national park for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Sequoia National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Sequoia National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Sequoia National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Sequoia National Park or Seattle?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

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 Seattle More Beautiful?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Sequoia National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Sequoia National Park as well. 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.

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.


Is Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Families?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Sequoia National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Sequoia National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly national park. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Couples?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Sequoia National Park is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Sequoia National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Sequoia National Park is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sequoia National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Seattle is a good national park to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.


Is Sequoia National Park or Seattle Better for Students?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle 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.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, 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 Seattle a more walkable city?

Sequoia National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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


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

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

How long in Sequoia National Park or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sequoia National Park and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park than in Seattle. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Sequoia National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Sequoia 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 Seattle.


  • How many days in Sequoia National Park or Seattle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sequoia National Park 2-7 
    Seattle 2-3

One day in Sequoia National Park or Seattle?

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.

Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A weekend in Sequoia National Park or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Seattle?

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 live music and food around the bustling big city of Seattle. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Seattle 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
    Seattle Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sequoia National Park $152
    Seattle $242

The average daily cost (per person) in Sequoia National Park is $152, while the average daily cost in Seattle is $242. 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 Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sequoia National Park $64
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sequoia National Park $128
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in Sequoia National Park and Seattle

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


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: Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $56
    Seattle $30

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Seattle HTL-APT (SEA): $143
  • Transfer Pier 91 to International SeaTac Airport One Way: $27
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $171
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $132
  • SEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|Hotels: $37
  • SEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|Hotels: $140
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $112
  • Seattle to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Seattle - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $130
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Seattle - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Seattle SEA Airport to Downtown|Pier 91|Bellevue Private Transfer: $42

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

Prices for flights to both Seattle 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
    Seattle $88

Typical Food Prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

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

  • Bite-Sized Seattle History & Food Tour: $26
  • Meet Me at the Market Food Tour: $44
  • Taste Pike Place Walking Food Tour: $63
  • Seattle Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $71
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market: $72
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $73
  • Gnocchi Cooking Class With Local Chef in Seattle: $75
  • Japanese Ramen Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Seattle Pike Market Food Tasting Tour with Secret Food Tours: $75
  • Street Food Tour of South Lake Union- Area of Amazon Spheres : $77
  • Plant Based in Pike Place Food Tour (GF available): $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $31
    Seattle $16

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

Tours and Activities in Seattle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Guided Boat Tour in Gig Harbor and Narrows Bridges: $55
  • Leavenworth Exclusive Tour from Seattle: $195
  • 2 Hour Sound Tour: $118
  • Bainbridge Island Discovery Tour: $165
  • Bainbridge Island Electric Bike Tour: $175
  • Bainbridge Island Serenity Forest Hike & Cultural Landmarks Tour: $235
  • Bald Eagles Nesting Area Tour at Skagit River: $135
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour: $29
  • Best of Seattle Small Group Walking Tour W/ Space Needle: $244
  • Bike Tour Seattle. 5 star Electric Bike Tour Seattle's waterways: $90
  • Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle: $125
  • Brunch Cruise with Buffet in Washington: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sequoia National Park $7.84
    Seattle $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

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

  • Seattle Bar Crawl Belltown Bar Blitz: $15
  • Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Where the Hops Grow! Yakima Brewery Tour : $45
  • Diverse Wine Tasting Experience Near Pike Place Market: $75
  • Diverse Wine Tasting Experience with Bites: $75
  • Woodinville Guided Wine Tour with Optional Tastings: $109
  • Bainbridge Island Discovery and Wine Tour: $159
  • Hollywood Artisan Wine Tasting Experience: $249
  • All-inclusive Wine Tasting and Lunch Experience: $249
  • Private Wine Tour on Whidbey Island, WA 7hrs: $288
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $344


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