A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pittsburgh vs. Sequoia National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a industrial, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a magical, breathtaking, and surreal national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Pittsburgh and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park than Pittsburgh, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sequoia National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pittsburgh is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Also, Sequoia National Park is famous for the General Sherman tree. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

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

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

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Pittsburgh is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Pittsburgh is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Pittsburgh. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

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 Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Pittsburgh is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Pittsburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

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

Is Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Sequoia National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.


Is Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Sequoia National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park?

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Pittsburgh is a city with good options for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Pittsburgh. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

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

Is Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sequoia National Park. 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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.


Is Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is great for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

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

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sequoia National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

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

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Pittsburgh is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Pittsburgh has some public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

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 Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Pittsburgh
Sequoia National Park

Pittsburgh is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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 Pittsburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park?

Both Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pittsburgh, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh.


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

One day in Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park?

In Pittsburgh, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

With around the breathtaking national park of Sequoia National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pittsburgh. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

With around the destination of Sequoia National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


Five days in Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park?

Pittsburgh is a fun place to experience. 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, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Pittsburgh or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Pittsburgh. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sequoia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Pittsburgh?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pittsburgh is $181, 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 Pittsburgh and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pittsburgh $106
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pittsburgh $212
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Pittsburgh and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh


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: Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pittsburgh $22
    Sequoia National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $96

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

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Pittsburgh 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
    Pittsburgh $54
    Sequoia National Park $31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pittsburgh $38
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour: $33
  • Bike the Burgh Tour: $50
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Discover Oakland Tour: $33
  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take: $75
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $40
  • New! Art & Artists Tour: $33
  • New! Bikes & Brews Tour: $75
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30
  • Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Game Ticket at PNC Park: $35

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
    Pittsburgh $33
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $50
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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


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