A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Albuquerque vs. Olympic National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Albuquerque or Olympic 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 Albuquerque and Olympic 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.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a cosmopolitan, cultural, and outdoorsy town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a vast, pristine, and stunning park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Albuquerque and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Albuquerque. Although Albuquerque and Olympic National Park are popular destinations, Albuquerque has more sights and attractions for tourists. Albuquerque is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Olympic National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Olympic National Park is more touristy than Albuquerque and is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. Albuquerque is famous for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes. It is also well known for The Old Town.

How is Albuquerque different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its museums and history.

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Olympic National Park. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.


Is the Food Better in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Albuquerque. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Olympic National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a great park for its luxury resorts. However, Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Olympic National Park to choose from. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Albuquerque is not a resort destination.


Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park Better for its Old Town?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Olympic National Park does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Albuquerque can be explored in its historical center. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

Olympic National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Olympic National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Albuquerque is a good destination for hiking. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Is the Shopping Better in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Albuquerque is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.


Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a great park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Olympic National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque and Olympic National Park both superb destinations for a couple.

Albuquerque is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Olympic National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Olympic National Park. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.


Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park Better for Students?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque is a popular place for students. However, Olympic National Park is not popular with students.

Albuquerque is a good town to visit for students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Olympic National Park is not popular with students.

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

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque and Olympic National Park both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Public transit is generally limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

Is Albuquerque or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Albuquerque
Olympic National Park

Albuquerque is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.


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

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Albuquerque?

How long in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albuquerque than Olympic 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 Albuquerque.


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

One day in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

In Albuquerque, you'll find shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the vast park of Olympic National Park. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albuquerque. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the pristine destination of Olympic National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

Albuquerque is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the vast park of Olympic National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


A week in Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the cosmopolitan destination of Albuquerque. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Olympic National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic National Park or Albuquerque?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Albuquerque is $135, while the average daily cost in Olympic National Park is $124. 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 Albuquerque and Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albuquerque $69
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albuquerque $138
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Albuquerque and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Albuquerque or Olympic 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 Albuquerque


Hotels in Olympic 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: Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albuquerque $37
    Olympic National Park $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $39
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $79
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Private Transfer: $126
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Pagosa Springs Private Transfer: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Albuquerque or Olympic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Olympic National Park and Albuquerque 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
    Albuquerque $41
    Olympic National Park $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albuquerque $24
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour by App: $6.50
  • Historic Old Town Albuquerque smart phone App/Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Albuquerque by Operation City Quest: $10
  • The Turquoise Museum Curator's Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Albuquerque by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket: $20
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Old Town Albuquerque Ghost Tour: $26
  • The Ghost Tour of Old Town - New Mexico's oldest Ghost Walk - Since 2001: $35
  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • ABQ City Guided History Tour: $35

Tours and Activities in Olympic National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Olympic National Park are as follows:

  • Olympic Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Olympic Full Day Small Group Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albuquerque $20
    Olympic National Park $5.57


When comparing the travel costs between Albuquerque and Olympic National Park, we can see that Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque Expensive? and Is Olympic National Park Expensive?.


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