A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Sequoia National Park for Resorts, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Sequoia 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and theater.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a magical, breathtaking, and surreal national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Orlando and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • 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 the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Sequoia National Park are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Sequoia National Park is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orlando is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Sequoia National Park is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Sequoia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Theater?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Orlando is a city with good options for theatre. However, Sequoia National Park is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Sequoia National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Orlando is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Orlando is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

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


Is Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Orlando is a world class resort vacation destination. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Is Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

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

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Orlando is a very popular place for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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


Is Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Sequoia National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Sequoia National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sequoia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Orlando is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Sequoia National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.


Is Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

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

Plenty of students visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Orlando and Sequoia National Park both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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 Orlando or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Orlando
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is adequate for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Sequoia National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

Both Orlando and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park than in Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sequoia National Park than Orlando 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 Sequoia National Park.


  • How many days in Orlando or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

In Orlando, you'll find shopping and theater. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Sequoia National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

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

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


Five days in Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

Orlando is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Sequoia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sequoia National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the family-friendly destination of Orlando. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sequoia National Park. In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Orlando?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $321, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $130. 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 Orlando and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Orlando 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 Orlando


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: Orlando Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Sequoia National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

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


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

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

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Orlando APT-HTL (MCO): $96
  • Transfer service in Orlando. MCO: $75
  • Transfer from Orlando International Airport to Central Florida: $115
  • Sedan Transfer Orlando Airport to Disney Resort up to 4 Passengers: $150
  • Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) to Hotels near Universal - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • SUV Transfer TO or FROM MCO to Lake Buena Vista (Disney Hotels): $145
  • Roundtrip transfer Orlando Airport-Hotels in Disney and Universal: $96
  • Private Transfers from Port Canaveral to Disney Hotels: $250
  • Private Transfer: Sanford Airport to Lake Buena Vista Resort Area: $75
  • Private Transfer: Orlando to Orlando International Airport (MCO): $80
  • Private Transfer: Legoland to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $153
  • Private Transfer: Lake Buena Vista Resort to MCO Airport in SUV: $111

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Orlando 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
    Orlando $65
    Sequoia National Park $31
Typical Food Prices in Orlando

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

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

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $38
  • Tastes of the World Food Tour in Winter Haven : $50
  • Señor Frogs Lunch / Dinner Package: $50
  • Dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe with Live Music: $58
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Sleuth's Mystery Dinner Show, Orlando: $69
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Teatro Martini Dinner Show in Orlando: $79
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Sequoia National Park $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orlando.

  • 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando: $77
  • Everglades Airboat Tour near Orlando Florida: $89
  • 1 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of The Famous Chain of Lakes: $27
  • 16 mile Heli Tour Over Disney Spring, Epcot, Hollywood Studios: $86
  • 16 miles Private Helicopter Day Tour over Fun Spot: $65
  • 2 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of the Chain of Lakes: $42
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 23 mile Heli Tour, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom &more: $127
  • 23 miles Day Flight Heli Coaster Adventure Ride: $128
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $300
  • Beer Spirits and Ghosts Walking Tour: $170

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:

  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Virtual Bar Crawl & Scavenger Hunt: $12
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $85
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


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