A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jacksonville vs. Redwood National Park for Backpackers, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Jacksonville or Redwood 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 Jacksonville and Redwood 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a youthful, fun, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Jacksonville and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jacksonville. Although Jacksonville and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Jacksonville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jacksonville is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also well known for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Jacksonville different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Jacksonville. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Jacksonville or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

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

Dining out in Jacksonville is an experience not to be missed. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Jacksonville or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Jacksonville is well known for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Jacksonville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Jacksonville or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Jacksonville is well known for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Many people visit Jacksonville for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.


Is Jacksonville or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Redwood National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Jacksonville is well known for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Jacksonville or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Redwood National Park. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.


Is Jacksonville or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Is Jacksonville or Redwood National Park Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Jacksonville is a good destination for students. However, Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

Jacksonville is popular with students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Redwood National Park is not popular with students.


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

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Jacksonville is a good destination for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Jacksonville, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Jacksonville or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Redwood National Park

Jacksonville is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Jacksonville is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

In either Jacksonville or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Jacksonville because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jacksonville than Redwood 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 Jacksonville.


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

One day in Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

In Jacksonville, you'll find shopping and museums. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this monumental 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 Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

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

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

Jacksonville is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this grand 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 Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the youthful destination of Jacksonville. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Redwood 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood National Park or Jacksonville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $220, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $111. 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 Jacksonville and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Redwood 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 Jacksonville


Hotels in Redwood 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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Redwood National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Carnival Cruise Port Transfer to Jacksonville: $336
  • Carnival Cruise Port to Jacksonville Airport (JAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Amelia Island: $195
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Place/ St. Johns Town Center: $164
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $96
    Redwood National Park $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

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

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $18

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

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

  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $6.00
  • Murray Hill Walking Mural Tour: $25
  • Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Jacksonville Ghosts and Ghouls Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $41
  • Self-Guided Kayaking: Real Florida Adventure: $45
  • Self Guided Family Friendly Kayak Rental Experience Old Florida : $48
  • Eight Flags Road Tour: $50
  • Electric Bike Tour with Free Application for Navigation: $50
  • Guided Kayak Eco Tour: Real Florida Adventure: $55
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Redwood National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

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

  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135


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

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



When is the best time to visit Jacksonville or Redwood National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

Both Redwood National Park and Jacksonville during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

Jacksonville is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In Redwood National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the summer, Jacksonville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Redwood National Park. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Jacksonville is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Redwood National Park. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Redwood National Park. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Jacksonville is generally a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In the winter, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Redwood National Park. Jacksonville usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

Both Redwood National Park and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Jacksonville is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during spring. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Redwood National Park. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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