A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. The Hamptons for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and The Hamptons can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Shenandoah National Park

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

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a lavish, wealthy, and opulent beach destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Shenandoah National Park and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shenandoah National Park than The Hamptons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shenandoah National Park is better known for its skiing, museums, hiking, and impressive beauty, while The Hamptons is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Shenandoah National Park is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Also, Shenandoah National Park is famous for Skyline Drive. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with good options for winter skiing. However, The Hamptons 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".

The Hamptons is not a skiing destination.


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

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Shenandoah National Park and The Hamptons.

Shenandoah National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

The Hamptons offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

Is Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a beach destination with good options for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

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.


Is Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is great for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

In The Hamptons, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a beach destination with good options for the beach. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in The Hamptons. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Shenandoah National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

The Hamptons offers some nice hiking trails. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.


Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Many people travel to The Hamptons specifically to go shopping. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

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 Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

The Hamptons offers lots of family activities. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

Is Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

Both Shenandoah National Park and The Hamptons are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as 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.

The Hamptons is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.


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

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options 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.

The Hamptons is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's more popular with the rich and famous than it is with the budget crowd, so you may struggle to find an affordable place to stay, much less a hostel.

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

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

Neither Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Is Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Shenandoah National Park
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a beach destination with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable beach destination. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.

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


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

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

Both Shenandoah National Park and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Shenandoah National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than The Hamptons 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 Shenandoah National Park.


  • How many days in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this breathtaking national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and shopping around the opulent beach destination of The Hamptons, there's plenty to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

Shenandoah National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With shopping and nightlife around the lavish destination of The Hamptons, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this scenic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With nightlife and food around the opulent beach destination of The Hamptons, there's plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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, The Hamptons or Shenandoah National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Shenandoah National Park is $125, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $223. 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 Shenandoah National Park and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shenandoah National Park $53
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shenandoah National Park $106
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Shenandoah National Park and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons? 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 Shenandoah National Park


Hotels in The Hamptons


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $70
    The Hamptons $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Shenandoah National Park 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
    Shenandoah National Park $28
    The Hamptons $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $34
    The Hamptons $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
    The Hamptons $31


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



When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons?

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 Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as The Hamptons. The summer months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year.

In the summer, Shenandoah National Park is around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in July average around 77°F (25°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 76°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in The Hamptons. Shenandoah National Park usually gets less rain in July than The Hamptons. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

Both The Hamptons and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Shenandoah National Park is generally around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 56°F (13°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In October, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Shenandoah National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The Hamptons can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Shenandoah National Park. Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than The Hamptons in the winter. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 32°F (-0°C) in January, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets less rain in January than The Hamptons. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and The Hamptons. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Shenandoah National Park is a little warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in April average around 54°F (12°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In April, Shenandoah National Park usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)