A Travel Price Comparison for California Sacramento vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Attractions, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

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

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sacramento or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a laid back, relaxed, and undiscovered city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a underrated, vast, and overlooked park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Sacramento and Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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
  • 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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sacramento. Although Sacramento and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are popular destinations, Sacramento has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sacramento is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sacramento is famous for its history and state capital. It is also well known for the California State Railroad Museum. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is famous for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

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

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

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Sacramento is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sacramento. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile 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 Sacramento or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Sacramento 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.

Sacramento offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

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 Sacramento or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Sacramento 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 Sacramento. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

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 Sacramento or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Sacramento is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Sacramento is not a hiking destination.


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

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Sacramento is a city with good options for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Sacramento is a great destination for shopping. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

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

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Sacramento and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Sacramento is a family-friendly city. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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 Sacramento or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.


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

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Sacramento is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although most backpackers skip this town for more popular destinations, there are a couple of hostels in town.

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

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Sacramento is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.

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

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

Sacramento
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.

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 Sacramento Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sacramento and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park than in Sacramento. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Sacramento, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sacramento than Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Sacramento.


  • How many days in Sacramento or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sacramento 1-2 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

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

In Sacramento, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With around the underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Sacramento or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

With around the destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Sacramento. 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, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


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

Sacramento 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sacramento is $281, 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 Sacramento and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sacramento $111
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sacramento $222
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Sacramento and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Sacramento 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 Sacramento


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: Sacramento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sacramento $51
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sacramento

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

  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $110
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Sacramento hotel/address- RoundTrip Private Transfer: $122
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Heavenly Mountain - Arrival Transfer: $218
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $220
  • Round Trip Private Transfer in Sacramento Airport to Calistoga: $295
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Mammoth Mountain - Arrival Transfer: $295

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sacramento 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
    Sacramento $53
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sacramento

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

  • Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour: $98
  • Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour: $98
  • Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Midtown Walking Food Tour: $145
  • Italian Cooking and Dance Class Experience: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sacramento $19
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Sacramento

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

  • Gold Rush & Ghosts SmartPhone App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Delta's History and Wine: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Auburn to Placerville: $12
  • Sacramento Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sacramento $12
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Sacramento

Also in Sacramento, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sacramento Bar Hunt: Sacramento Sprint Bar Crawl: $12
  • Placer County Wine Tasting Pass: $19
  • Wine Tasting Audio Tour - Amador County CA: $30
  • Cider and Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch - near Sacramento: $125


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



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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

The summer brings many poeple to Sacramento as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sacramento this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sacramento is generally cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Sacramento average around 76°F (24°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 83°F (29°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 Sacramento this time of the year. In the summer, Sacramento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Sacramento gets 439 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 436 hours of full sun.

Sacramento usually gets less rain in July than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Sacramento gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Sacramento 76°F (24°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sacramento are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Sacramento for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Sacramento is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sacramento averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sacramento. Sacramento usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during autumn. Sacramento gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 284 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Sacramento usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Sacramento gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Sacramento 64°F (18°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sacramento during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sacramento in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Sacramento is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sacramento in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 47°F (9°C).

In the winter, Sacramento often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Sacramento gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 162 hours of full sun.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sacramento usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Sacramento gets 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sacramento 45°F (7°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sacramento and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the natural beauty.

In April, Sacramento is generally around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Sacramento average around 58°F (15°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of the year. In Sacramento, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sacramento usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during spring. Sacramento gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 329 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sacramento usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Sacramento gets 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Sacramento 58°F (15°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sacramento

Sacramento Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 51°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 58°F (15°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 65°F (18°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 76°F (24°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)