A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shenandoah National Park vs. Ottawa for Backpackers, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa?

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 Ottawa 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. 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.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a welcoming, cultural, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Ottawa travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shenandoah National Park. Although Shenandoah National Park and Ottawa are popular destinations, Shenandoah National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Shenandoah National Park is very popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ottawa attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Shenandoah National Park is more touristy than Ottawa and is known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. It is also well known for Skyline Drive. Ottawa is famous for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Ottawa 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".

Ottawa is not a skiing destination.

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

Ottawa 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 Ottawa. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War 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 Ottawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ottawa is a city with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ottawa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

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 Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is reasonable in both Shenandoah National Park and Ottawa.

Shenandoah National Park doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Most people don't head to Ottawa specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa Better for Hiking?

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

People visit Shenandoah National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa?

Ottawa is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Ottawa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

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 Ottawa More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

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

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Ottawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa Better for Students?

Ottawa is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Ottawa. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

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

Ottawa 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 Ottawa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

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 Ottawa a more walkable city?

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

Ottawa is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

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 Ottawa Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shenandoah National Park and Ottawa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than in Ottawa. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Ottawa.

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

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing when visiting the destination of Shenandoah National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With shopping and museums around the cultural city of Ottawa, 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 Ottawa?

Shenandoah National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With museums and food around the friendly destination of Ottawa, 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 Ottawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shenandoah National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Ottawa. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the skiing when visiting the serene destination of Shenandoah National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Ottawa 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Shenandoah National Park and Ottawa, we can see that Shenandoah National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Ottawa Expensive?.

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

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 Ottawa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Ottawa. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ottawa in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Shenandoah National Park is a little warmer than Ottawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Ottawa fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

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

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Ottawa. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Ottawa for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Ottawa averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in October than Ottawa. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Ottawa and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ottawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ottawa can be very cold. Shenandoah National Park can be very cold during winter. In January, Shenandoah National Park is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 32°F (-0°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In January, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Ottawa and Shenandoah National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the natural beauty.

Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Ottawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Ottawa fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in April than Ottawa. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Shenandoah National Park