A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Napa Valley for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley 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 scenic, breathtaking, and serene national park. With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. Many visitors also come to Napa Valley because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Napa Valley travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Napa Valley. Although Shenandoah National Park and Napa Valley are popular destinations, Napa Valley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Napa Valley is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors for its skiing and hiking. Shenandoah National Park is famous for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Napa Valley is famous for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also well known for Louis M. Martini Winery.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with good options for skiing. However, Napa Valley is not a skiing destination.

Head to Shenandoah National Park for some great skiing and other winter activities. 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".

Napa Valley is not a skiing destination.


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

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

You'll find a number of reasonable museums and attractions in both Napa Valley and Shenandoah National Park.

While most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Napa Valley have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

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

Many people head to Napa Valley for the nightlife scene. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Shenandoah National Park is terrific for hiking. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for the nearby hiking options.

Around Shenandoah National Park visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Napa Valley is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley?

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is great for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley More Beautiful?

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Napa Valley because of it's amazing beauty. It is filled with rows of vineyards, classic chateaus, and picturesque settings, which make this a beautiful destination to explore.

Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is renowned for couples. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

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

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

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Shenandoah National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Napa Valley is not known for backpackers.

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

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.


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

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Neither Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Shenandoah National Park
Napa Valley

Neither Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley are walkable places.

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

Napa Valley is not a walkable national park. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley. 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 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than Napa Valley 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 Shenandoah National Park.


  • How many days in Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the scenic 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 scenic area of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the breathtaking 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 nightlife around the scenic destination of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you have a weekend, this area 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 Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the scenic 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 nightlife and food around the picturesque area of Napa Valley. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley?

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.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Shenandoah National Park?

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

  • Shenandoah National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Napa Valley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Shenandoah National Park $145
    Napa Valley $333

The average daily cost (per person) in Shenandoah National Park is $145, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $333. 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 Shenandoah National Park and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shenandoah National Park $53
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shenandoah National Park $106
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Shenandoah National Park and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley? 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 Shenandoah National Park


Hotels in Napa Valley


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: Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $70
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

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

  • San Francisco Airport Private Transfer to Napa Valley: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Shenandoah 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
    Shenandoah National Park $49
    Napa Valley $108

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Napa Valley

For Napa Valley, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Zero Proof Libations and Food Tour of Downtown Napa: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $34
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • 3 Hour Electric Trike Sunset Tour at Sonoma: $175
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour Around Bodega Head : $9.99
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $159
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour with Picnic Lunch: $224
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $169
  • Napa Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Napa Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Napa Valley & Sonoma Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $25
  • Napa Valley Daily Join In Group Wineries Tour Including Lunch: $125
  • Napa Valley Mountainside Small Group Winery Tour: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

  • Napa Exploration Wine Tasting: $78
  • Serene and Romantic Wine Tasting Next to the Vines in Napa Valley: $85
  • Guided Wine Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • ATV Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting: $150
  • ATV Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $155
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $156
  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine Tasting & History Tour (Public Tour): $189
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour | 6-8hr Private Fully Customized.*XL SUV: $250


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



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

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 Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

Shenandoah National Park is around the same temperature as Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In July, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Shenandoah National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Shenandoah National Park is cooler than Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Napa Valley. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shenandoah National Park. In January, Shenandoah National Park is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 32°F (-0°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In January, Shenandoah National Park usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Napa Valley. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty during these months.

Shenandoah National Park is around the same temperature as Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)