A Travel Price Comparison for Canada Winnipeg vs. Jasper National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Winnipeg and Jasper National Park 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.

Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a friendly, welcoming, and cultural city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a breathtaking, adventure-filled, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Winnipeg and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
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
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jasper National Park. Although Winnipeg and Jasper National Park are popular destinations, Jasper National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jasper National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Winnipeg attracts visitors for its museums & sights, nightlife, and shopping. Jasper National Park is more touristy than Winnipeg and is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty It is also well known for Icefields Parkway. Winnipeg is famous for its festivals, culture, and railway connections.

How is Winnipeg different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Winnipeg is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Winnipeg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some unique museums around town including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Other popular museums are the Manitoba Museum and the Manitoba Children's Museum.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Winnipeg or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Winnipeg and Jasper National Park can be an enjoyable experience.

Winnipeg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants around town that serve a mix of local dishes and international cuisines. A must-see part of the city is the historic Forks Market.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Jasper National Park area. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Winnipeg or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Winnipeg is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Winnipeg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has an active nightlife, even during the winter months. You'll find dance clubs, bars, and pubs around town that are popular with locals and visitors alike.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Winnipeg or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

Around Jasper National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Winnipeg is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Winnipeg is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town, from boutiques to big box shops and even some outlets.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Winnipeg or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Jasper National Park is very family-friendly. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

Winnipeg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Assiniboine Park Zoo or the Manitoba Children's Museum. There are a number of parks and playgrounds around town as well as the Prairie Dog Central Railway. There are many kid-friendly restaurants in the city as well.

Is Winnipeg or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is great for its romantic activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Jasper National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Winnipeg is a good city for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy wandering through Assiniboine Park. There are also many romantic restaurants and spas for couples.


Is Winnipeg or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Jasper National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

Plenty of backpackers visit Winnipeg. While it's often overlooked by backpackers, there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Winnipeg is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Winnipeg. There's a bus system around town, but many visitors prefer to have a vehicle.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Winnipeg or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Winnipeg
Jasper National Park

Winnipeg is a city with a few options for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Winnipeg is generally not very walkable. While there are a few walkable neighborhoods, the city itself is not particularly walkable, particularly during the cold winter months.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.


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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Winnipeg?

How long in Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

In either Winnipeg or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than Winnipeg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Winnipeg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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


  • How many days in Winnipeg or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Winnipeg 2-4 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Winnipeg. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful national park of Jasper National Park offers food. 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 Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

Winnipeg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Jasper 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 Jasper National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Winnipeg for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Winnipeg. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Jasper 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 Jasper 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 Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

The friendly destination of Winnipeg offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jasper 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 3-Day Tours from Vancouver, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vancouver, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Toronto, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Winnipeg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Winnipeg is $256, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $84. 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 Winnipeg and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Winnipeg $93
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Winnipeg $186
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Winnipeg and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Winnipeg or Jasper 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 Winnipeg


Hotels in Jasper 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: Winnipeg Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Winnipeg -
    Jasper National Park $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Winnipeg

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

  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg Hotels: $63
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport to Winnipeg Accommodation : $37
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Hotels to Winnipeg Airport (YWG): $63
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $125
  • Winnipeg One way Private transfer from/to the Airport: $200
  • Winnipeg accomodation to Winnipeg Airport (YWG) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • Arrivals Private Transfer from Richardson Airport: $141

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jasper National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Jasper National Park:

  • Jasper Thermal Resorts to Calgary Airport YYC Departure Transfer: $173

Is it cheaper to fly into Winnipeg or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg $5.50
    Jasper National Park $24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $106
  • Peak Nic - A hike and an outdoor cooking lesson: $119
  • 4-Hours E-Bike Food Tour : $200

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Winnipeg $2.57
    Jasper National Park $7.90

Tours and Activities in Winnipeg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Winnipeg.

  • Assiniboine Park Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.08
  • Wealthy Beginnings Audio Walking Tour: $5.08
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.08
  • Manitoba Legislative Grounds Audio Walking Tour: $5.08
  • The Forks Self-Guided Smartphone Tour with Audio: $5.08
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour: $5.08
  • Winnipeg's Most Haunted: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour: $5.99
  • Winnipeg's Wealthy Beginnings: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Discover Assiniboine Park with a Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Manitoba Legislative Grounds: a Smartphone Audio Tour & Trivia Challenge: $5.99
  • The Forks Historic Site: a Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Jasper National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1-Hour Guided Group Fat Bike Tour: $82
  • 5.5-Hour Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise from Jasper: $148
  • Canadian Rockies Tour by Chauffeured Sidecar from Jasper: $118
  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $107
  • Explore Jasper Tour: $122
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $59
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Jasper Ice Climbing Experience: $176
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $64
  • Jasper Rock Climbing Experience: $108
  • Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Winnipeg -
    Jasper National Park $12


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

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