A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Savannah vs. Shenandoah National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Savannah or Shenandoah National Park?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Shenandoah 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 scenic, historic, and beautiful city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a breathtaking, serene, and beautiful national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking.

Savannah and Shenandoah National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Savannah or Shenandoah National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Savannah than Shenandoah National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Savannah is better known for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Shenandoah National Park is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shenandoah National Park is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. 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 Shenandoah National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Savannah or Shenandoah National Park Better for Skiing?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place for snow skiing. However, Savannah is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Savannah is not a skiing destination.


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

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Savannah is great for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

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

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Savannah is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Shenandoah National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Savannah or Shenandoah National Park Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a moderate national park for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

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 Shenandoah National Park Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Savannah is a city with good options for the beach. However, Shenandoah 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Savannah or Shenandoah National Park Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Savannah is great for its historic old town charm. However, Shenandoah 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.

Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Savannah or Shenandoah National Park Better for Hiking?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

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

People visit Shenandoah National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Shenandoah National Park?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Savannah is great for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Savannah or Shenandoah National Park Better for Families?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

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 Shenandoah National Park Better for Couples?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Savannah and Shenandoah 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.

Shenandoah National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.


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

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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 Shenandoah National Park Better for Students?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

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

It's common for students to visit Savannah. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

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

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Savannah is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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 Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.


Is Savannah or Shenandoah National Park a more walkable city?

Savannah
Shenandoah National Park

Savannah is great for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable city. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Shenandoah National Park or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Shenandoah National Park?

In either Savannah or Shenandoah National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than Savannah because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 3-5 days is enough time in Shenandoah National Park.

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Savannah 1-3 
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5

One day in Savannah or Shenandoah National Park?

With shopping and museums around the beautiful city of Savannah, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The beautiful national park of Shenandoah National Park offers food and skiing. 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 Shenandoah National Park?

With museums and food around the scenic destination of Savannah, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Savannah or Shenandoah National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic city of Savannah. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Shenandoah National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Shenandoah National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Savannah or Shenandoah National Park?

Savannah is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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 length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Shenandoah 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, Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park is $125. 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 Shenandoah National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Shenandoah National Park $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Shenandoah National Park $106
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Shenandoah National Park

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah 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
    Shenandoah National Park $70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $432
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $257
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $222
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $222
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $205
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $205
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $179
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Shenandoah National Park?

Prices for flights to both Shenandoah 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
    Shenandoah National Park $28

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 Southern Fried Expectations Walking Food Tour: $67
  • Savannah Ghost Trolley Tour with Dinner at the Pirate's House: $72
  • Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise: $76
  • 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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Savannah $17
    Shenandoah National Park $34
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 Hours Savannah Architectural Tour: $50
  • 2-Hour Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour: $30
  • 2-Hour Explore Savannah Bike Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Savannah Sunset Riverboat Cruise: $54
  • 2hr Paranormal Walking Tour: $30
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Epic Savannah Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • 90 Minute Historic Savannah Walking Haunted Bar Pub Crawl: $19
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $20
  • Captain Stoner Joe's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $20
  • Spanish Moss Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl: $20
  • Late Night Happy Hour Haunted Pub Crawl and Legendary Bar Tour: $22
  • Captain Stoner's Late Night Happy Hour Pub Crawl in Savannah: $22
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl-Walking Tour Historic District: $25
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30


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

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



When is the best time to visit Savannah or Shenandoah 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 Savannah or Shenandoah National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors come to Savannah in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Savannah is generally a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 82°F (28°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Savannah receives a lot of rain in the summer. Savannah usually gets more rain in July than Shenandoah National Park. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Savannah 82°F (28°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Shenandoah National Park in the Autumn?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Savannah for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Savannah is a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In October, Savannah usually receives less rain than Shenandoah National Park. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Savannah 68°F (20°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Shenandoah National Park in the Winter?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Savannah during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Savannah because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Shenandoah National Park in the winter. In the winter, Savannah is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Shenandoah National Park averages at about 32°F (-0°C).

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Shenandoah National Park. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Savannah 49°F (9°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Shenandoah National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Shenandoah National Park. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the natural beauty.

In April, Savannah is generally much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In April, Savannah usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shenandoah National Park. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Savannah 66°F (19°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Shenandoah National Park and Savannah

Savannah Shenandoah National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)