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

Should you visit Houston 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 Houston 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.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums. See Houston travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a pristine, stunning, and vast park. The beauty of Olympic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

Houston and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Houston than Olympic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Houston is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Olympic National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Olympic National Park is more touristy than Houston and is known for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

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

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

Houston 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.

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Houston is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Olympic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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 Houston or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Houston is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

Houston offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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

Is Houston or Olympic National Park Better for Music?

Houston is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Olympic National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Olympic National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Houston or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Olympic National Park is well known for its resorts. However, Houston 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.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

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

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.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Olympic National Park?

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

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

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 Houston or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

Olympic National Park is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Olympic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The diversity of landscapes give the park a unique beauty. You can explore old growth rainforests, wander down pristine beaches, or take in the stunning mountain views.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Houston or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Both Houston and Olympic National Park are superb family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Olympic National Park. 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.

Is Houston or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Olympic National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

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

Olympic National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Houston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this sprawling city, but there are some hostels and cheap motels.

Is Houston or Olympic National Park Better for Students?

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

Houston is a good city to visit for students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Olympic National Park is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

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 Houston or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Houston 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.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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 Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Olympic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Houston or Olympic National Park?

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

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

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

One day in Houston or Olympic National Park?

Because Houston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

In Olympic National Park, you'll find museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Houston or Olympic National Park?

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

In Olympic National Park, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Olympic National Park has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Olympic National Park?

Houston 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.

Olympic National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Olympic National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Houston or Olympic National Park?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the diverse big city of Houston. 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.

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

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 Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Houston 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 Houston or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Olympic National Park. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Houston is much warmer than Olympic National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Houston usually receives more rain than Olympic National Park. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Houston as well as Olympic National Park. Many travelers come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Olympic National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Houston is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Houston in October average around 71°F (22°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 51°F (10°C).

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Houston receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Houston usually gets less rain in October than Olympic National Park. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Olympic National Park and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Houston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Olympic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Olympic National Park can be very cold during winter. In January, Houston is generally much warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 52°F (11°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. In January, Houston usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Olympic National Park and Houston during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Houston for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the natural beauty.

Houston is much warmer than Olympic National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Houston usually gets less rain in April than Olympic National Park. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Houston