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

Should you visit Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

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 Saint Louis and Sequoia National Park. 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.

Saint Louis

Saint Louis is a under rated, unexpected, and fascinating city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a impressive, magical, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Saint Louis and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • 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
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sequoia National Park. Although Saint Louis and Sequoia National Park are both popular with visitors, Sequoia National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sequoia National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint Louis is known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Saint Louis and is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. It is also home to the General Sherman tree. Saint Louis is popular for its blues and live music scene, its authentic personality, and its position as the Gateway to the West.

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

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

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Saint Louis is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Saint Louis from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are a surprising number of museums around town. For art museums you should visit the Contemporary Art Museum, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. For history, the Griot Museum of Black History, the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum, and the Lewis & Clark Museum and Boathouse are all interesting. There are also science, educational, and children's museums. And of course, there's the iconic Gateway Arch.

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 Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis. There are some local dishes that originated here. Toasted ravioli had its start in St. Louis. There's also a St. Louis style pizza. Diners, cafes, and sandwiches are all part of the food scene and be prepared for cheese, meaty, and satisfying.

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 Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Saint Louis is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Louis. Visitors often hang out in the downtown area, particularly around Washington Avenue, for the nightlife scene. Live music is popular, especially the blues, and there are many local venues worth checking out.

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

Is Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a national park with a few options for its resorts. However, Saint Louis is not a resort destination.

Sequoia National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Saint Louis is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

Sequoia National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Saint Louis is a very popular place for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saint Louis. There are vintage stores, boutiques, and suburban strip malls around town. There are also farmer's markets and art galleries.

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

Is Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Both Saint Louis and Sequoia National Park are very good family-friendly destinations.

Saint Louis is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of activities for kids around town. There's the St. Louis Zoo and the City Museum with many hands-on exhibits for kids. There's also the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary and several farms with animals and nature. Forest Park is an impressive urban park as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sequoia National Park is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is well known for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Sequoia National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Saint Louis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fine dining restaurants and eclectic activities make this city an often overlooked couples destination.

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

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Louis is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sequoia National Park is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Saint Louis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of affordable motels around town but no real hostels.

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

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

Saint Louis is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors to Saint Louis can move around easily with public transportation. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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 Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Louis
Sequoia National Park

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

Saint Louis is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, like the downtown area and the sections around the Gateway Arch.

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 Saint Louis Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

Both Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Saint Louis, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis.


  • How many days in Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Louis 1-3 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

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

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the magical national park of Sequoia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Louis. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive destination of Sequoia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

Saint Louis is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive national park of Sequoia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the under rated destination of Saint Louis. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Sequoia National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Saint Louis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Louis is $184, 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 Saint Louis and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Louis $101
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Louis $202
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Saint Louis and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis


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: Saint Louis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Louis $26
    Sequoia National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint Louis

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Saint Louis:

  • St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) to St. Louis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) to St. Louis City - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • St. Louis City to St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) - Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Private Transfers for Departure from Queens to JFK Airport: $29
  • Private Transfer in Saint Louis, MO (STL): $65
  • Private Transfer from Port Louis Airport (MRU) to Port Louis Port: $76
  • Departure Transfer St. Louis to St. Louis Airport by Car or SUV: $115
  • Arrival transfer St. Louis Airport STL to St. Louis by Car or SUV: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Louis or Sequoia National Park?

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Louis

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

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - St. Louis, MO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Louis $46
    Sequoia National Park $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Saint Louis

Here are a few typical costs in Saint Louis for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Gateway Arch parking
    $6.00

Tours and Activities in Saint Louis

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

  • Best of St. Louis Small Group Tour w/St Louis Arch & River Cruise: $174
  • Exploring St. Louis with the Family Walking Tour: $211
  • Interstate 55: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $5.20
  • Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour: $15
  • Landmarks Downtown-West Walking Tour: $15
  • Lemp Haunted Neighborhood Walking Tour: $25
  • Private Gastronomy Barbecue Tour in St. Louis: $125
  • Romantic Tour in The City of Love: $175
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in St. Louis by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • St Louis Cardinals Baseball Game Ticket at Busch Stadium: $8.66
  • St. Louis Arch and River Cruise Small Group Walking Tour: $144
  • St. Louis Christmas Spectacular Tour: $244

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:

  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Louis $19
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint Louis

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Saint Louis:

  • The Haunted Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour: $25


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


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