A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. Shenandoah National Park for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Miami or Shenandoah 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 Miami and Shenandoah National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a bustling, high energy, and glamorous beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and breathtaking national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking.

Miami and Shenandoah National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • 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 Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Miami than Shenandoah National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Shenandoah National Park is more popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Shenandoah National Park and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

How is Miami different from Shenandoah National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Skiing?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is very good for winter skiing. However, Miami is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Miami is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Miami or Shenandoah National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Miami is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Miami have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Shenandoah National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Miami is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

Miami is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.


Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Music?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Miami is renowned for its music scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a live music destination.

Miami has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Shenandoah National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Resorts?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Miami is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Miami is a world class resort vacation destination. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Beaches?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Miami is renowned for the beach. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Miami is considered to be a world-class beach destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Hiking?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Miami is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Shenandoah National Park specifically for its hiking. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Miami is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Many people travel to Miami specifically to go shopping. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Families?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Shenandoah National Park.

Miami is a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Shenandoah National Park is very family-friendly. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.


Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Couples?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Both Miami and Shenandoah National Park are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Shenandoah National Park is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park Better for Students?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

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

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.


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

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Miami is a beach city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Miami or Shenandoah National Park a more walkable city?

Miami
Shenandoah National Park

Miami is great for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

Miami is a very walkable destination. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable beach city. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Shenandoah National Park or Miami?

How long in Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

In either Miami or Shenandoah National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than Miami because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 3-5 days is enough time in Shenandoah National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than Shenandoah 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 Miami.


  • How many days in Miami or Shenandoah National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5

One day in Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

When visiting Miami, people usually allow for lots of time. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

When visiting Miami, people usually allow for lots of time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shenandoah National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the diverse beach city of Miami. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people come for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Shenandoah National Park is a fun place to experience. In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

Miami is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find food and skiing around the serene destination of Shenandoah National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Shenandoah National Park or Miami?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $206, while the average daily cost in Shenandoah National Park is $125. 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 Miami and Shenandoah National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Shenandoah National Park $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Shenandoah National Park $106
Compare Hotels in Miami and Shenandoah National Park

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Shenandoah 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 Miami


Hotels in Shenandoah 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: Miami Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Shenandoah National Park $70
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • Transfer to West Palm Beach: $420
  • From Miami Beach: Roundtrip Bimini Ferry and Hotel Transfers: $289
  • From Miami Airport - Private Transfer to Hotels and Homes: $265
  • From Miami - Private Transfer from Miami Hotels to Airport: $265
  • Private Airport Transfer From Miami Airport to Hotels and Home: $255
  • Round Trip Motorcoach Transfer to Key West from Miami: $245
  • Transfer from Miami Hotel or Miami Port to Fort Lauderdale Airport or Hotel: $199
  • Guided Tour with Transfer from Cruise Port to Airport: $184
  • Shared Tour in Miami with Transfer: $170
  • Private transfer from Miami hotel to Port of Miami: $160
  • Transfer from Miami Airport to Miami Hotel or Miami Port: $160
  • Private Magic City Tour with Transfers: $155

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Shenandoah National Park?

Prices for flights to both Shenandoah National Park and Miami 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
    Miami $41
    Shenandoah National Park $28
Typical Food Prices in Miami

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Miami:


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

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

  • Little Havana- Family Friendly Walking Food Tour : $52
  • Little Havana Ultimate Food Tour : $64
  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $64
  • A Taste of South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Taste of Little Havana Food Tour in Miami with Cuban Street Food: $75
  • Food Tour of Miami's South Beach: $79
  • Mango's Dinner and Show Ticket: $98
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100
  • Guided Small Group Little Havana Food Tour: $124
  • 3 Hour Regional Indian Cooking Class and Dining Experience in Miami: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    Shenandoah National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Miami

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

  • 30 Minute- Ocean Drive Segway Tour: $42
  • Cultural Brunch Experience in Miami: $75
  • Miami Beach Art Deco Tour with Cocktails: $75
  • Miami's Most Authentic Walking Tour of Little Havana: $39
  • 1 Day Key West Tour from Miami Florida: $175
  • 1 Hour Jet Ski Experience in Miami Beach Florida: $95
  • 1 Hour Star Island Segway Tour: $74
  • 1HR Boat Tour Around Miami Celebrities Mansion: $65
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Miami Beach: $273
  • 2 hrs Miami Private Boat Tour with Cooler, Ice, Bluetooth Stereo: $75
  • 2-Day Key West and Miami South Beach Tour: $100
  • 2-Hour Miami Beach Electric Bike Tour: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group Brewery Golf Cart Tour of Wynwood with a Local Guide: $59
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100


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

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



When is the best time to visit Miami or Shenandoah 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 Miami or Shenandoah National Park in the Summer?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Miami during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets more rain in July than Shenandoah National Park. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Miami or Shenandoah National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors come to Miami in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Miami is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Shenandoah National Park. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Miami or Shenandoah National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Miami as well as Shenandoah National Park. Most visitors come to Miami for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Shenandoah National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Shenandoah National Park averages at about 32°F (-0°C).

Miami usually gets less rain in January than Shenandoah National Park. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Miami or Shenandoah National Park in the Spring?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Miami because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year.

In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In April, Miami usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shenandoah National Park. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Shenandoah National Park and Miami

Miami Shenandoah National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)