A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Minneapolis for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and Minneapolis 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.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a serene, beautiful, and scenic national park. The beauty of Shenandoah National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a diverse, dynamic, and innovative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Shenandoah National Park and Minneapolis are both popular with visitors, Minneapolis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Minneapolis is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Shenandoah National Park is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shenandoah National Park is more touristy than Minneapolis and is known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Minneapolis is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also home to Mall of America.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Minneapolis is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Shenandoah National Park is a great destination to visit. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Minneapolis is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis is great for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Minneapolis. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Is the Food Better in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Minneapolis is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Minneapolis has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Shenandoah National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Minneapolis is great for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Minneapolis for the nightlife scene. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Shenandoah National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Many people travel to Minneapolis specifically to go shopping. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis More Beautiful?

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Shenandoah National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Minneapolis are high quality to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shenandoah National Park. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Minneapolis is a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Shenandoah National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Minneapolis is a good national park for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Shenandoah National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Minneapolis is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

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

Minneapolis is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Minneapolis offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Minneapolis is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Minneapolis than Shenandoah 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 Minneapolis.

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the serene national park of Shenandoah National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With food and shopping around the diverse city of Minneapolis, there's plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the serene destination of Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With shopping and museums around the dynamic destination of Minneapolis, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the breathtaking national park of Shenandoah National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic city of Minneapolis. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the skiing when visiting Shenandoah National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. One week 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 length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Minneapolis. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shenandoah National Park is generally around the same temperature as Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 77°F (25°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

In July, Shenandoah National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Minneapolis. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Minneapolis. The autumn months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

Shenandoah National Park is a little warmer than Minneapolis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in October than Minneapolis. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis in the Winter?

Both Minneapolis and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Minneapolis. It's quite cold in Shenandoah National Park in the winter. In the winter, Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in January average around 32°F (-0°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 15°F (-10°C).

In January, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Minneapolis in the Spring?

Both Minneapolis and Shenandoah National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Minneapolis in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Shenandoah National Park is generally a little warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 54°F (12°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in April than Minneapolis. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Shenandoah National Park