A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. Shenandoah National Park for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez

Oaxaca de Juarez is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a scenic, breathtaking, and serene national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing, food, and hiking.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Shenandoah National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • 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 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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Shenandoah National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oaxaca de Juarez is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Shenandoah National Park is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for Mercado Benito Juárez. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park Better for Skiing?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place for skiing. However, Oaxaca de Juarez 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".

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Oaxaca de Juarez has many famous sights for visitors. There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.

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.

Is the Food Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Oaxaca de Juarez have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.

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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is great for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Oaxaca de Juarez for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.

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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Oaxaca de Juarez is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.

Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park Better for Hiking?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

People visit Shenandoah National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

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

Many people travel to Oaxaca de Juarez specifically to go shopping. The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.

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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a family-friendly place to visit. For trampolines, bouncy houses, and other fun activities, head to El Llano Park on a weekend. There's also an outdoor playground and other fun activities for kids at Museu Infantil de Oaxaca. Kid-friendly restaurants are abundant, and if the kids enjoy hiking, you can head out of town for a day trip.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Shenandoah National Park make for a excellent place to visit.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is famous for its cuisine, so food lovers will enjoy dining their way through town. There are also great hotels, beautiful gardens, and fascinating architecture.

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

For backpackers, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Shenandoah National Park are terrific places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Oaxaca de Juarez. There are many very affordable hostels around town. The city is a mecca for backpackers in Mexico, and you'll find plenty of people to hang out with and great restaurants to explore.

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


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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a 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 Oaxaca de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Shenandoah National Park

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very walkable destination. It's a walkable city that's fun to explore on foot, particularly in the historic center.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable 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 Oaxaca de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Shenandoah National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Shenandoah National Park or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

In either Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Oaxaca de Juarez has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Shenandoah National Park. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 3-5 days is enough time in Shenandoah National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Oaxaca de Juarez.


  • How many days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

With food and shopping around the traditional city of Oaxaca de Juarez, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and skiing around the breathtaking destination of Shenandoah National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

With shopping and museums around the cultural destination of Oaxaca de Juarez, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find skiing and food around the serene national park of Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

With museums and nightlife around the traditional city of Oaxaca de Juarez, there's plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Shenandoah National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Shenandoah National Park or Oaxaca de Juarez?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $46, 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 Oaxaca de Juarez and Shenandoah National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $20
    Shenandoah National Park $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $40
    Shenandoah National Park $106
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Shenandoah National Park

Looking for a hotel in Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Oaxaca de Juarez


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: Oaxaca de Juarez Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Shenandoah National Park $70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also for Oaxaca de Juarez, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Oaxaca: Private Transfer to Huatulco: $408
  • From Oaxaca: Transfer to Puerto Escondido: $402
  • Oaxaca: Santiago Apoala Waterfall Day Trip with Transfers: $344
  • Private transfer from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido - new highway: $270
  • Xoxocotlan Airport: Private Transfer to Oaxaca City: $88
  • Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez-RoundTrip Transfer: $74
  • Round private transfer Airport to hotel in Oaxaca: $59
  • Oaxaca International Airport - Private Transfer From/ to Oaxaca City: $56
  • Oaxaca: Private transfer from Oaxaca airport to hotel: $52
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Oaxaca Airport to Hotels: $46
  • Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez-Arrival Transfer: $37
  • Oaxaca hotels to Oaxaca Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Oaxaca de Juarez or Shenandoah National Park?

Prices for flights to both Shenandoah National Park and Oaxaca de Juarez 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
    Oaxaca de Juarez $14
    Shenandoah National Park $28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • Food tour in Mercado de Abastos (Vegetarian an Vegan Friendly): $33
  • Oaxaca: Night Street Food Tour with Transfers and Tastings: $52
  • Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class: $70
  • Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class: $71
  • Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour: $77
  • AUTHENTIC OAXACA FOOD TOUR, eat like a local.: $89
  • Traditional Oaxaqueña Cooking with Grandma's Recipes: $90
  • Cooking classes from the Isthmus with a Tehuana: $92
  • Nixtamal Cooking Class & Tour To The San Agustin Center of Arts: $99
  • Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class (includes transportation): $100
  • Oaxaca: Day of the Dead Evening Walking Tour with Dinner: $108
  • The Real Traditional Oaxaca Cooking class: $114

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Shenandoah National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Oaxaca de Juarez.

  • Full Day Waterfall Adventure in Sierra Madre Mountains of Oaxaca: $80
  • Romantic tour in Oaxaca: $158
  • Amazing Monte Alban and City tour Private Tour: $200
  • Amazing experience in the mountain of San Jose del Pacifico: $80
  • Ancestral Carnival Tour 2025: $199
  • Ancestral Mezcal Experience + ceramics + Alebrijes + Market: $199
  • Artisanal Mezcal Culture Tour for Tasting and History: $108
  • Bicycle Tour through Oaxaca learning about its Urban Art and History: $19
  • Cacao, Chocolate Experience in Oaxaca for Small Groups: $69
  • Celebrating Day of the Dead in Xoxocotlan Tour: $177
  • Crafts & Cuisine All Included Guided Day Tour from Oaxaca: $165
  • Electric Bike Gastronomy Tour in Oaxaca: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $15
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Oaxaca de Juarez

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oaxaca de Juarez:

  • Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $45
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery tour: $50
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $50
  • From Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $52
  • Tour to Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery (Small groups): $66
  • Artisanal Mezcal distillery in an authentic Zapotec village : $150


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

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