A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Williamsburg vs. Jasper National Park for Families, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Williamsburg and Jasper National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a quaint, well-preserved, and historic town. Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Williamsburg travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a adventure-filled, stunning, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of Jasper National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Williamsburg and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Williamsburg than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Williamsburg is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Williamsburg is well known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Also, Williamsburg is famous for Colonial Williamsburg. Jasper National Park is well known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Williamsburg different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Williamsburg can be an interesting and educational experience. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Williamsburg makes for a great culinary experience. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is a town with a few options for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Williamsburg is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is terrific for its historic old town. However, Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Williamsburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Jasper National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is well known for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Williamsburg is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Jasper National Park is one of the main draws. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.


Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Jasper National Park is very family-friendly. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg and Jasper National Park both great destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Williamsburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Jasper National Park is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Jasper National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

Williamsburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a number of restaurants and bars that cater to the student population, but there's little else that attracts backpackers.


Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park Better for Students?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is terrific for students. However, Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

Williamsburg is a great destination for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Jasper National Park is not popular with students.

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

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Williamsburg or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Williamsburg
Jasper National Park

Williamsburg is a town with a few options for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Williamsburg is generally not very walkable. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.


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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

In either Williamsburg or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than Williamsburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Williamsburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Williamsburg than Jasper 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 Williamsburg.


  • How many days in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Williamsburg 2-4 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Williamsburg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

Williamsburg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Jasper National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Williamsburg for five days. You'll find museums and food around the town of Williamsburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this adventure-filled destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A week in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

The historic destination of Williamsburg offers food and shopping. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jasper National Park is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Williamsburg?

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

  • Williamsburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Williamsburg $135
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Williamsburg is $135, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Williamsburg and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Williamsburg $66
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Williamsburg $132
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Williamsburg and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Williamsburg or Jasper National Park? 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 Williamsburg


Hotels in Jasper National Park


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: Williamsburg Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Williamsburg $11
    Jasper National Park $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Williamsburg or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Williamsburg 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
    Williamsburg $54
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Williamsburg $34
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Williamsburg

Here are a few actual costs in Williamsburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Williamsburg Colonial Adventure: Exploration Game and Tour: $5.00
  • Williamsburg's Famous Ghosts Self Guided Audio Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Colonial Contradictions Self Guided Walking Tour of Williamsburg: $9.99
  • Colonial Williamsburg Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Yorktown Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Original Ghost of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour: $20
  • The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour: $20
  • Williamsburg, VA: History of Slavery Guided Walking Tour: $25
  • Dark History Conspiracy Tour: $25
  • 1 Hour Christmastide Walking Tour in Virginia Past and Present : $25
  • Colonial Christmas Walking Tour: $25
  • The Patriots Historical Walking Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Jasper National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Jasper National Park: $14
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour: $62
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Morning Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour: $64
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $67
  • Jasper Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour with Maligne Lake Hike: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Williamsburg -
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Williamsburg

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

  • Williamsburg Ghosts and Brews Haunted Pub Crawls: $29
  • Colonial Ghosts Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl: $48


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

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