A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Redwood National Park vs. Boise for Families and Couples

Should you visit Redwood National Park or Boise?

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 Redwood National Park and Boise. 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.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Boise

Boise is a authentic, friendly, and welcoming city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Redwood National Park and Boise: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Redwood National Park or Boise?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Redwood National Park. Although Redwood National Park and Boise are popular destinations, Redwood National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Redwood National Park is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Boise attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Boise and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. It is also well known for Stout Grove. Boise is famous for its many outdoor and recreational activities.

How is Redwood National Park different from Boise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Redwood National Park or Boise?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Boise is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Boise. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Redwood National Park or Boise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Boise is a city with a few options for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Boise may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. While Idaho has long been associated with the potato, the locals usually think of "finger steaks" when describing local food. These are deep-friend beef strips that are as good as they sound.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Boise Better for Nightlife?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Boise is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Boise has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Redwood National Park or Boise Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Redwood National Park is a popular place for the beach. However, Boise is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Boise is not a beach destination.


Is Redwood National Park or Boise Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Boise is not a hiking destination.

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Boise is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Boise?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Boise is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Boise to go shopping. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Redwood National Park or Boise Better for Families?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Redwood National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Boise is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Redwood National Park. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Boise doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. You'll find parks, playgrounds, and the Discovery Center which will help keep kids entertained.


Is Redwood National Park or Boise Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Redwood National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Boise is lacking in options for romance.

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Boise is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Date night activities include dining at a nice restaurants and seeing a show at the theater.

Is Redwood National Park or Boise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boise is lacking in options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Boise is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Backpackers rarely make their way to this town.

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

Redwood National Park
Boise

Boise is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Boise. There are infrequent buses around town, but visitors usually have a car to get around town efficiently.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Redwood National Park or Boise a more walkable city?

Redwood National Park
Boise

Boise is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Boise is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable neighborhoods but, in general, the town isn't very walkable.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Boise or Redwood National Park?

How long in Redwood National Park or Boise?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Redwood National Park or Boise to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Redwood National Park than Boise because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Boise.

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


  • How many days in Redwood National Park or Boise? Ideal Length of Stay
    Redwood National Park 3-5 
    Boise 1-2

One day in Redwood National Park or Boise?

In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this impressive destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Boise, you'll find shopping and museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boise, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Redwood National Park or Boise?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boise. 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.


Five days in Redwood National Park or Boise?

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boise 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.

A week in Redwood National Park or Boise?

You'll find around the grand destination of Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find shopping and museums around the welcoming destination of Boise. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boise or Redwood National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Redwood National Park is $111, while the average daily cost in Boise is $146. 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 Redwood National Park and Boise in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Redwood National Park $44
    Boise $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Redwood National Park $88
    Boise $150
Compare Hotels in Redwood National Park and Boise

Looking for a hotel in Redwood National Park or Boise? 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 Redwood National Park


Hotels in Boise


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: Boise Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Redwood National Park $53
    Boise $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Redwood National Park or Boise?

Prices for flights to both Boise and Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $33
    Boise $45

Typical Food Prices in Boise

For Boise, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hotel
    $59
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (for 4)
    $55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Redwood National Park $33
    Boise $30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boise

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


  • Edwards Boise Imax
    $27

Tours and Activities in Boise

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $14
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour: $25
  • Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour near Boise, Idaho: $218

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Redwood National Park $11
    Boise $24


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

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