A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New York City vs. Sequoia National Park for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit New York City or Sequoia 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 New York City and Sequoia 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.

New York City

New York City is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant, and energetic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. New York City is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See New York City travel costs.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a surreal, impressive, and magical national park. Sequoia National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

New York City and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in New York City or Sequoia National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although New York City and Sequoia National Park are both popular with visitors, New York City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New York City is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Sequoia National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. New York City is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Sequoia National Park is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New York City or Sequoia National Park?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit New York City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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 New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Theater?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Sequoia National Park is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in New York City that are not to be missed. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Sequoia National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New York City or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in New York City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

New York City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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


Is New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Music?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.

New York City is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Sequoia National Park is not a live music destination.

Is New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New York City is not a resort destination.

Sequoia National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Sequoia National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

New York City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Sequoia National Park?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in New York City. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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

Is New York City or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Sequoia National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

New York City is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Is New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

Both New York City and Sequoia National Park are very good family-friendly destinations.

New York City is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Sequoia National Park is a very kid-friendly city. 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.


Is New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Sequoia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

New York City is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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

Is New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Sequoia National Park. 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.

New York City is a great city to visit for backpackers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Is New York City or Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

New York City is a very popular city for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.


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

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in New York City is top-notch. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all 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 New York City or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

New York City
Sequoia National Park

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in New York City. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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 New York City Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or New York City?

How long in New York City or Sequoia National Park?

Both New York City and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, New York City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in New York City than Sequoia National Park. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.


  • How many days in New York City or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    New York City 3-7 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in New York City or Sequoia National Park?

Because New York City 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the surreal destination of Sequoia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in New York City or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sequoia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in New York City or Sequoia National Park?

New York City is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Sequoia National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in New York City or Sequoia National Park?

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Sequoia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or New York City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • New York City Prices
    USA Prices
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    New York City $363
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in New York City is $363, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $152. 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 New York City and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New York City $175
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New York City $350
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in New York City and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in New York City 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 New York City


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: New York City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New York City $49
    Sequoia National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:


  • Subway
    $4.50
  • Taxi Ride
    $8.00
  • Subway
    $2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Woodbury Outlets Transfer with shopping from NYC | Kids 50% Off: $121
  • VIDA VIP Airport Transfer in New Jersey and New York: $144
  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer in New York HTL-APT (JFK,EWR,LGA): $126
  • Transfer: New York City Center to John F.K. Airport(JFK) : $69
  • Transfer from Newark Airport to Times Square New York : $150
  • Skip the line One World Observatory Private Tour with Transfers : $296
  • Shared transfer EWR: $39
  • Private Transfer: Newark Airport to Manhattan Up to 6pax: $130
  • Private Transfer: Newark Airport EWR to New York by Luxury SUV: $177
  • Private Transfer: New York to Newark Airport EWR by Luxury SUV: $177
  • Private Transfer: New York to Newark Airport EWR by Business Car: $165
  • Private Transfer: New York to LaGuardia Airport LGA by Sedan Car: $167

Is it cheaper to fly into New York City or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and New York City 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
    New York City $87
    Sequoia National Park $53
Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Gelato
    $7.50
  • Snacks for Two at Yankees Game
    $34
  • Coffee
    $6.53
  • Smoothie
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

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

  • East Village Noho Food Tour: $32
  • The Chinatown, Little Italy, Food Tour: $35
  • The Lower East Side Food Tour: $35
  • Sweets and Slices Greenwich Village Walking Food Tour: $49
  • New York City's Best Pizza tour: $59
  • Made in Brooklyn Food Tour: $65
  • Greenwich Village Pizza Walk: $75
  • Brooklyn Pizza Walk: $75
  • New York's Classic Eats West Village Food Tour: $75
  • New York's Classic Eats Lower East Side Food Tour: $75
  • Union Square Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $75
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    New York City $180
    Sequoia National Park $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Comedy Show Tickets
    $56
  • City Map
    $8.00
  • Broadway Musical
    $111
  • Broadway Show Program
    $10
  • Magazine
    $6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

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

  • 3 Hour Session at Williamsburg's Adventure Park Area 53: $42
  • 9/11 Memorial Tour with Skip-the-Line Museum Ticket: $65
  • Central Park Pedicab Tours - History and Movie Locations: $50
  • Godfather Movie Locations New York Tour with Private Guide: $195
  • Grand Central Terminal Walking Tour: $35
  • Harlem Bronx Brooklyn Queens Tour in 7 Hours: $65
  • New York City Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village: $39
  • Official Central Park Pedicab Tours: $50
  • VIP Central Park Experience Tour with photos 50min~Skip the line: $280
  • & Juliet on Broadway Ticket : $94
  • & Juliet on Broadway Ticket with VIP Experience and Lunch: $299
  • "The Met" Metropolitan Museum of Art Exclusive Guided Tour: $133

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:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids, Things to Do in Central Park in NYC, and The Best Museums in New York City.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    New York City $29
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

  • Brooklyn Distillery Tour : $22
  • NYC Pub Crawl Experience: $24
  • Distillery Tour and Tasting: $25
  • NYC Pub Crawl Tour: $30
  • NYC Pub Crawl with Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $33
  • Top Shelf Distillery Tour: $33
  • New York Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Cheers to Chinatown Tour and Bar Crawl: $40
  • Brooklyn Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Greenwich Village Piano Bar Crawl: $50
  • Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between New York City and Sequoia National Park, we can see that New York City 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City 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 New York City Expensive? and Is Sequoia National Park Expensive?.