A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Raleigh vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a suburban-style, friendly, and southern city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a vast, overlooked, and underrated park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Raleigh and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Raleigh than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Raleigh is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. Also, Raleigh is famous for North Carolina State University. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Raleigh different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Raleigh is a city with good options for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Raleigh is a city with good options for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Raleigh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Raleigh is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a park with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Raleigh. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers lots of family activities. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Couples visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.


Is Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular park for backpackers and budget travelers. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Students?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Raleigh is a well-known place for students. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.

Is Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Neither Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.


Is Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Raleigh is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

Raleigh is generally not very walkable. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Raleigh Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Raleigh and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In our opinion, Raleigh has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Raleigh than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park than Raleigh 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.


  • How many days in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Raleigh 2-3 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Raleigh, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This 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 Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Raleigh, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. In Raleigh, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this friendly destination offers. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has to offer.


Five days in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Raleigh. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Five days 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Raleigh is a popular choice for travelers. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Raleigh?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Raleigh is $189, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $126. 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 Raleigh and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Raleigh


Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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: Raleigh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer: $62
  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $118
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $124

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Raleigh 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
    Raleigh $57
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30
Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

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


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

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

  • Private Cooking Class in Durham with an Expert Home Cook: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Durham by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC: $15
  • Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: $16
  • Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham: $16
  • Raleigh Downtown: Historic Walking Tours: $16
  • Raleigh Ghost and Urban Legend Tour: $16
  • Raleigh African American History Tour: $16
  • True Crime History Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Walking Tour: $26
  • Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour: $33
  • Raleigh Puzzling Adventure: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Raleigh $27
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


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

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



When is the best time to visit Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Raleigh is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Raleigh in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 83°F (29°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of the year. In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during summer. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 436 hours of full sun in the summer.

Raleigh gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Raleigh is generally cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 61°F (16°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the autumn, Raleigh often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 284 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets more rain in October than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Winter?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

The weather in Raleigh can be very cold. Raleigh is much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during winter. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In January, Raleigh usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Spring?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Raleigh during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Raleigh is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Raleigh in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 60°F (16°C).

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the spring, Raleigh often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 329 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets more rain in April than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Raleigh

Raleigh Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)


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