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

Should you visit Austin or Olympic National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Olympic National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the food, 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. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Austin and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin. Although Austin and Olympic National Park are popular destinations, Austin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Austin is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Olympic National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Olympic National Park is more touristy than Austin and is known for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital.

How is Austin 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 Austin. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Austin
Olympic National Park

Austin 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.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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 Austin or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Austin is a must-visit destination 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.

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Austin is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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

Is Austin or Olympic National Park Better for Music?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Austin is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Olympic National Park is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Olympic National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Austin or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a great destination for its resorts. However, Austin is not a resort destination.

Olympic National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Austin or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

Known for its hiking, Olympic National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Olympic National Park?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Austin is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Austin offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

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 Austin or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Olympic National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Austin or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Olympic National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

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

Austin
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Olympic National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.


Is Austin or Olympic National Park Better for Students?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Austin is a well-known place for students. However, Olympic National Park is not popular with students.

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Olympic National Park is not popular with students.

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

Austin
Olympic National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Olympic National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly 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 Austin or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Austin
Olympic National Park

Austin is a moderate city for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

Austin is generally not very walkable. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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


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

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

How long in Austin or Olympic National Park?

In either Austin 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 Austin because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

Families should spend more time in Olympic National Park than Austin. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin 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 Austin.


  • How many days in Austin or Olympic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Austin 2-3 
    Olympic National Park 2-5

One day in Austin or Olympic National Park?

In Austin, you'll find food and shopping. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Olympic 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.

A weekend in Austin or Olympic National Park?

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

Olympic National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Olympic National Park?

Austin is a fun place to experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Olympic 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.


A week in Austin or Olympic National Park?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the entrepreneurial destination of Austin. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the pristine destination of Olympic National Park. This 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic National Park or Austin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Austin is $142, 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 Austin and Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Austin $56
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Austin $112
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Austin and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Austin 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 Austin


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: Austin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Austin $47
    Olympic National Park $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Austin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:

  • Private Transfer Between Airport and Hotels: $80
  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $96
  • Austin Airport Group Pickup / Transfer up to 1 hour away.: $150

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

Prices for flights to both Olympic National Park and Austin 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
    Austin $35
    Olympic National Park $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Austin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Austin.

  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Austin South Congress Walking Food Tour for Small Groups: $95
  • Secret Food Tour: $97
  • Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Secret Food Tour of South Congress: $107
  • The Brunch Bus: Food Tour with a Live Band on Board the Bus!: $125
  • Private Guided Food Tour of Austin Neighborhoods: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Austin $28
    Olympic National Park $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Austin

Here are a few typical costs in Austin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Austin Duck Tour
    $31

Tours and Activities in Austin

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Round Rock by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Austin,TX: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Austin Trails Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Downtown Austin Haunted History Tour: $24
  • The Ghosts of Austin Walking Tour: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghosts of Austin Tour: $25
  • Ha Ha Haunted Austin Walking Ghost Tour: $26
  • Private 1 Hour Axe Throwing Experience in Texas: $27
  • Haunted Austin Walking History Tour: $28
  • City and Hill Country Non-Stop Tour in a Mercedes: $30
  • Forest Mindfulness and Embodiment Experience: $30

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
    Austin $28
    Olympic National Park $5.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Austin

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Austin:

  • Austin Bar Hunt: Sixth Street Spree: Austin Bar Crawl: $12
  • Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Downtown Austin Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Downtown Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Austin Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $44
  • From Texas Hill Country Brewery & Distillery Shuttle: $65
  • Private Austin Brewery Tour by Pedicab with All-Inclusive Beer Flight Option: $70
  • 4-Hour Austin Signature Brewery Tour: $100
  • The Brew Bus: Austin Brewery Tour with Live Band: $125
  • Half-Day Private Texas Hill Country Wine Tour from Austin: $143
  • Brewery 5K Fun Run, BBQ, and Texas History Museum in Austin : $175


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



When is the best time to visit Austin or Olympic National Park?

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 Austin or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Olympic National Park. Many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Olympic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Austin is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Austin in July average around 87°F (30°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Olympic National Park this time of the year. In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. Austin usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during summer. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 210 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Austin usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Austin 87°F (30°C) 
    Olympic National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Austin or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Austin as well as Olympic National Park. Most visitors come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Austin is generally much warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 73°F (23°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In the autumn, Austin often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Austin usually gets less rain in October than Olympic National Park. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Austin 73°F (23°C) 
    Olympic National Park 51°F (10°C)

Should I visit Austin or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

Both Olympic National Park and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Olympic National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Olympic National Park in the winter. Austin is much warmer than Olympic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Austin usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during winter. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. In January, Austin usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Austin 51°F (11°C) 
    Olympic National Park 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Austin or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

Both Olympic National Park and Austin during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Austin is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Austin in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 47°F (8°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. In the spring, Austin often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 148 hours of full sun.

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Austin usually gets less rain in April than Olympic National Park. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Austin 71°F (22°C) 
    Olympic National Park 47°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Austin

Austin Olympic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 41°F (5°C) 13.7 inches (349 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 43°F (6°C) 12.2 inches (311 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 44°F (7°C) 11.6 inches (294 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 47°F (8°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 52°F (11°C) 5.6 inches (142 mm)
Jun 83°F (29°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jul 87°F (30°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 58°F (14°C) 5 inches (126 mm)
Oct 73°F (23°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 51°F (10°C) 10.4 inches (263 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 45°F (7°C) 14 inches (355 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 41°F (5°C) 15 inches (380 mm)