A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Redwood National Park vs. Seattle for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Redwood National Park or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Redwood National Park and Seattle: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Redwood National Park and Seattle are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle.

How is Redwood National Park different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seattle 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 Seattle?

Seattle is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

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 Redwood National Park or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Redwood National Park is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Redwood National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Seattle is an experience not to be missed. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is well known for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Seattle is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is well known for its music scene. However, Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park and Seattle both offer nice beaches.

Redwood National Park offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Redwood National Park or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

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

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Seattle?

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

Many visitors go to Seattle to go shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

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 Seattle Better for Families?

Redwood National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Redwood National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly park. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Redwood National Park or Seattle Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Redwood National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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

Redwood National Park is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Redwood National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Seattle is a good park to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Redwood National Park or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is well known for students. However, Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

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

Seattle is a good destination for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Seattle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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

Is Redwood National Park or Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Redwood National Park or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Redwood National Park and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than in Seattle. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

Families should spend more time in Redwood National Park than Seattle. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Redwood 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 Seattle.

One day in Redwood National Park or Seattle?

In Redwood 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 park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A weekend in Redwood National Park or Seattle?

In Redwood National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Redwood 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 Redwood National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Redwood National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.

You'll find live music and food around the bustling big city of Seattle. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

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

When is the best time to visit Redwood National Park or Seattle?

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 Redwood National Park or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Redwood National Park and Seattle. Many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Redwood National Park is cooler than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 57°F (14°C) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Redwood National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Redwood National Park usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Redwood National Park gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Redwood National Park usually receives less rain than Seattle. Redwood National Park gets 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Seattle in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Redwood National Park is around the same temperature as Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Redwood National Park in October average around 55°F (13°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Redwood National Park often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Redwood National Park gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Redwood National Park gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Redwood National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In January, Redwood National Park is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Redwood National Park average around 48°F (9°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Redwood National Park usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Redwood National Park gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. It's quite rainy in Redwood National Park. In January, Redwood National Park usually receives more rain than Seattle. Redwood National Park gets 6 inches (152 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Redwood National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Redwood National Park is around the same temperature as Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 50°F (10°C) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. In the spring, Redwood National Park often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Redwood National Park gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Redwood National Park gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Redwood National Park