A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Savannah vs. Joshua Tree National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Joshua Tree 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.

Savannah

Savannah is a beautiful, charming, and scenic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking.

Savannah and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Savannah than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Savannah is better known for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Joshua Tree National Park is more popular for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Joshua Tree National Park is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Savannah is well known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Also, Savannah is famous for Forsyth Park.

How is Savannah different from Joshua Tree National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Savannah is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Savannah. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.


Is the Food Better in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Savannah is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Savannah has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is not a good place to visit for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Joshua Tree National Park for the nightlife. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Savannah is a city with good options for the beach. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Savannah. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Savannah is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Joshua Tree National Park does not have a historic old town.

Savannah is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Joshua Tree National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing national park to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

People visit Joshua Tree National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Savannah is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Savannah. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.


Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

Savannah is a family-friendly city. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.

Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Savannah and Joshua Tree National Park make for a excellent place to visit.

Savannah is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

Joshua Tree National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Joshua Tree National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Savannah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.


Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Students?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Savannah is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Savannah. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Joshua Tree National Park is not popular with students.

Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Savannah is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Savannah
Joshua Tree National Park

Savannah is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Savannah is a very walkable destination. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore on foot.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable city. You need a car to truly explore the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Savannah Worth Visiting? and Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah than Joshua Tree 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 Savannah.


  • How many days in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Savannah 1-3 
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4

One day in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the charming city of Savannah. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The beautiful national park of Joshua Tree National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Savannah. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Joshua Tree National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

Savannah is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

Savannah is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Joshua Tree National Park or Savannah?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Savannah is $160, while the average daily cost in Joshua Tree National Park is $152. 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 Savannah and Joshua Tree National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Joshua Tree National Park

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Joshua Tree 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 Savannah


Hotels in Joshua Tree 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: Savannah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Joshua Tree National Park $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $432
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $257
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $206
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $222

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Joshua Tree National Park?

Prices for flights to both Joshua Tree National Park and Savannah 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
    Savannah $58
    Joshua Tree National Park $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Savannah

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

  • Grave Encounters Ghost Tour with Cellar and Dinner: $55
  • 2-Hour Southern Food Tour: $63
  • Savannah Ghost Trolley Tour with Dinner at the Pirate's House: $72
  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Savannah's Port City Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Famous and Secret East Side/Port City Food Tour: $82
  • 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment: $91
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $91
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $106
  • True South Lunch Food Tour: $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Savannah $17
    Joshua Tree National Park $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Savannah

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Savannah are as follows:


  • Pub Crawl
    $10

Tours and Activities in Savannah

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Savannah are as follows:

  • "Savannah for Morons" Comedy Trolley Tour: $59
  • 1-Hour Bonaventure Cemetery Golf Cart Guided Tour in Savannah : $30
  • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Savannah: $35
  • 2-Hour Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour: $30
  • 2-Hour Explore Savannah Bike Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Savannah Sunset Riverboat Cruise: $54
  • 5 Hours Tybee Island Exclusive Bus and Bike Combo Tour: $75
  • 60-Minute Guided Segway History Tour of Savannah: $55
  • 90 Minutes Walking Tour in Savannah: $30
  • 90 minute Original Haunted Savannah Tour | 8pm: $25
  • 90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise: $41
  • Best of Savannah Small Group Tour w/ Wormsloe Historic Site: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Epic Savannah Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $20
  • Captain Stoner Joe's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $20
  • Captain Stoner's Late Night Happy Hour Pub Crawl in Savannah: $22
  • 10 to Midnight Happy Hour and Haunted Pub Crawl w/ the Captain: $22
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl-Walking Tour Historic District: $25
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33


When comparing the travel costs between Savannah and Joshua Tree National Park, we can see that Savannah is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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