A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlotte vs. Sequoia National Park for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Sequoia National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a magical, breathtaking, and surreal national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Charlotte and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park than Charlotte, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sequoia National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Charlotte is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Also, Sequoia National Park is famous for the General Sherman tree. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Charlotte different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Charlotte is a city with good options for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Charlotte is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Charlotte. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Charlotte or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Charlotte is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Charlotte or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Sequoia National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.


Is Charlotte or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Charlotte is a city with good options for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Charlotte. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.

Is Charlotte or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte 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 Sequoia National Park. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.


Is Charlotte or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Sequoia National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Charlotte or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sequoia National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.

Is Charlotte or Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

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

Plenty of students visit Charlotte. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.


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

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Charlotte is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Charlotte has some public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Is Charlotte or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Sequoia National Park

Charlotte is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

Both Charlotte and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park than in Charlotte. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlotte than Sequoia 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 Charlotte.


  • How many days in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

In Charlotte, you'll find shopping and museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charlotte, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find around the national park of Sequoia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

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

You'll find around the magical destination of Sequoia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

Charlotte 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.

You'll find around the surreal national park of Sequoia National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

A week in Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the growing destination of Charlotte. 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.

Sequoia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sequoia National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Charlotte?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $191, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $130. 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 Charlotte and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte or Sequoia 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 Charlotte


Hotels in Sequoia 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: Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Sequoia National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $133
  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $136
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $133

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $46
    Sequoia National Park $31
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

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


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlotte $43
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • 2.5 Hour Black History Van Tour-Perseverance, Power, and Progress: $59
  • 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte: $75
  • Beer & BBQ Walking Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $115
  • Big Bite Brew Tour in Charlotte's LoSo District: $150
  • Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour : $27
  • Charlotte Comedy City Tour: $40
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • Charlotte Historic : Queen Bee City Tour: $39
  • Charlotte Historical City Tour: $45
  • Charlotte Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $90

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


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

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