A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Yosemite National Park for Backpackers, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Yosemite National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Atlanta travel costs.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and popular national park. Many visitors also come to Yosemite National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Yosemite National Park travel costs.

Atlanta and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Atlanta. Although Atlanta and Yosemite National Park are popular destinations, Atlanta has more sights and attractions for tourists. Atlanta is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yosemite National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Atlanta is famous for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also well known for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Atlanta different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Atlanta is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Atlanta on the map. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Atlanta is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Dining out in Atlanta is an experience not to be missed. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Atlanta is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

Atlanta offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a great national park for its luxury resorts. However, Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.


Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yosemite National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Atlanta is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Atlanta is a world class destination for shoppers. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Yosemite National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Atlanta and Yosemite National Park are both very good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Yosemite National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a great national park for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Yosemite National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yosemite National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.


Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park Better for Students?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Atlanta is a well-known place for students. However, Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.

Atlanta is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.

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

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

While Yosemite National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Atlanta or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Yosemite National Park

Atlanta is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.


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

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

Both Atlanta and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park than in Atlanta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

Atlanta is a big city with plenty to do. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Yosemite National Park, you'll find . Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

Atlanta is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Yosemite National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yosemite National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

Atlanta is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the big city destination of Atlanta. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yosemite National Park. In Yosemite National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite National Park or Atlanta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Atlanta Prices
    USA Prices
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlanta $204
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $204, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Atlanta and Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Yosemite 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Yosemite 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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Yosemite National Park $41
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

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

  • Private Transfer Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta City: $38
  • Round Trip Private Transfer from Atlanta Airport to your Hotel : $40
  • Atlanta to Atlanta Airport (ATL) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Atlanta International Airport: Transfer to Atlanta City: $70
  • Private One-way Transfer from Atlanta Airport to Atlanta: $83
  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta by Business Car: $131
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Sedan Car: $131
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Sedan Car: $131
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL by SUV: $139
  • Land transfer limo suv sedan vans : $145

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $74
    Yosemite National Park $69
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

For Atlanta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $65
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Macaron Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class With a Local Chef: $75
  • Atlanta : 2-Hour Gnocchi Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Walking Food Tour: $106
  • Private Atlanta Cooking Class with a Fun Local Chef Naina: $139
  • Prohibition Themed Downtown Atlanta Progressive Dinner: $275

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Yosemite National Park $19

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • App-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket: $22
  • Selma in Atlanta Tour: $25
  • World of Coca-Cola General Admission Ticket: $25
  • World of Coca-Cola General Admission Ticket: $25
  • The Burning & the Bound: Grievous Ghost Tour of Atlanta: $27
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $29
  • Ponce City Market Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Midtown Walking Tour on Women's History: $30
  • LEGO® Discovery Center Admission Ticket: $30
  • The Burning & the Bound: Grievous Ghost Tour of Atlanta: $32
  • Sloomoo Institute Admission Ticket: $32

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Family Explorers: Customizable Private Tour: $399
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Yosemite National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Atlanta's Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $130
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $144
  • North Georgia Mountains TWO Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $155
  • Elijay Hike w/ Waterfall & Wine Tasting Private Tour from ATL: $230
  • Georgia Vineyards Wine Tour: $2,300


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

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