A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Phoenix for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Phoenix travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shenandoah National Park. Although Shenandoah National Park and Phoenix 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 Phoenix attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Shenandoah National Park is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. It is also well known for Skyline Drive. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with good options for skiing. However, Phoenix 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".

Phoenix is not a skiing destination.


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

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Phoenix is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Phoenix. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science 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 Phoenix? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

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 Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Phoenix is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Phoenix has a few options to choose from. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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 Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Shenandoah National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

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

Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

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 Phoenix More Beautiful?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park for its scenery and beauty. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Shenandoah National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.


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

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Phoenix is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

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 Phoenix a more walkable city?

Shenandoah National Park
Phoenix

Phoenix is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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 Phoenix Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shenandoah National Park and Phoenix. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than in Phoenix. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

Families should spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than Phoenix. 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.


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

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix?

In Shenandoah National Park, you'll find skiing. 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.

With food and shopping around the sprawling city of Phoenix, there's plenty to do. 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 Phoenix?

In Shenandoah National Park, you'll find skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 laid back destination of Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the sprawling city of Phoenix. 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 Phoenix?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shenandoah National Park. Many people enjoy the skiing when visiting Shenandoah National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Phoenix 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.


Which place is cheaper, Phoenix 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
    Phoenix Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Shenandoah National Park $145
    Phoenix $276

The average daily cost (per person) in Shenandoah National Park is $145, while the average daily cost in Phoenix is $276. 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 Phoenix in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shenandoah National Park $53
    Phoenix $144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shenandoah National Park $106
    Phoenix $288
Compare Hotels in Shenandoah National Park and Phoenix

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix? 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 Phoenix


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: Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $70
    Phoenix $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

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

  • Private Roundtrip Transfer From Phoenix Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $299
  • Sky Harbor Airport Private Transfer: $195
  • One Way SUV Transfer from Phoenix Int'l Airport to Phoenix Metro: $180
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $153
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Luxury SUV: $151
  • Arrival Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix by Luxury SUV: $130
  • Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix by Luxury SUV: $129
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Sedan Car: $125
  • Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels: $110
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Business Car: $107
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Business Car: $107
  • Arrival Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix City : $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Shenandoah National Park or Phoenix?

Prices for flights to both Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $90

Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Phoenix: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar: $75
  • Secret Food Tours Phoenix: $92
  • Phoenix Food Tour on Trendy Roosevelt Row with 7 Food Tastings: $95
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Old Town Food Tour of Hidden Gems with 6 Food Tastings: $105
  • Sunset at Desert Botanical Garden: Dinner & Walking Tour : $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $34
    Phoenix $40

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • Phoenix South Mountain Hiking Tour Experience: $64
  • 1-2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Hiking Tour: $70
  • 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $69
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: $75
  • 2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $115
  • 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure: $115
  • 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Experience in Sonoran Desert: $237
  • 3 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $135
  • Amazing 2-Hour Guided Hiking Adventure in Phoenix, Arizona: $125
  • Ancient Ruins Tour - Guided Arizona Desert Tour by UTV: $150
  • Apache Trail Private Half-Day Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
    Phoenix $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

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

  • Phoenix Bar Crawl: $15
  • Halloween Party Bike Bar Crawl in Old Town Scottsdale: $59
  • Old Town Scottsdale Halloween Party Bike Bar Crawl : $69
  • Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix: $70
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $70
  • Make Alfredo Pasta at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $189
  • Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix: $200


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



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

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix 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 Phoenix this time of year.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. Shenandoah National Park is cooler than Phoenix in the summer. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

In July, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C) 
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C)

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

Both Phoenix 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 Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Shenandoah National Park is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Phoenix averages at about 79°F (26°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in October than Phoenix. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C) 
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Phoenix. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Phoenix 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 Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 32°F (-0°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In January, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C) 
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Phoenix. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

Shenandoah National Park is much colder than Phoenix in the spring. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in April than Phoenix. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C) 
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park Phoenix
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Mar 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm)