A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Blue Ridge vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Blue Ridge and Bryce Canyon National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a outdoorsy, historic, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Blue Ridge is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Blue Ridge travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a spectacular, other-worldly, and breathtaking park. Bryce Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Blue Ridge and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Blue Ridge. Although Blue Ridge and Bryce Canyon National Park are popular destinations, Blue Ridge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Blue Ridge is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Bryce Canyon National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Blue Ridge and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Blue Ridge is famous for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere. It is also well known for Chattahoochee National Forest.

How is Blue Ridge different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Blue Ridge is adequate for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Blue Ridge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.


Is the Food Better in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Blue Ridge is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Blue Ridge has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Blue Ridge is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Blue Ridge has a few options to choose from. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.


Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Bryce Canyon National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Blue Ridge. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Blue Ridge is a great town for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Blue Ridge is well-known for its shopping. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Bryce Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This park is one of the most uniquely beautiful, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the colors glow and the hoodoos have a magical quality.

Blue Ridge is a beautiful place to visit, too. There are plenty of hikes to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. There's also a scenic railroad as well as places to kayak or go horseback riding.


Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Blue Ridge and Bryce Canyon National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Blue Ridge is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very kid-friendly town. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Blue Ridge and Bryce Canyon National Park both high quality destinations for a couple.

Blue Ridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

Couples visit Bryce Canyon National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Bryce Canyon National Park. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Blue Ridge is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.


Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Blue Ridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Blue Ridge is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Blue Ridge is a somewhat walkable place. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Blue Ridge Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Blue Ridge?

How long in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Blue Ridge 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Blue Ridge 2-5 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Blue Ridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With around the breathtaking park of Bryce Canyon National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 one day exploring.


A weekend in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Even though Blue Ridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

With around the destination of Bryce Canyon National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park.

Five days in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Blue Ridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This town offers something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon National Park, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Blue Ridge is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Blue Ridge?

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

  • Blue Ridge Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Blue Ridge $150
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Blue Ridge is $150, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $159. 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 Blue Ridge and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Blue Ridge $67
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Blue Ridge $134
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Blue Ridge and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon 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 Blue Ridge


Hotels in Bryce Canyon 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: Blue Ridge Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Blue Ridge $34
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Blue Ridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Blue Ridge 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
    Blue Ridge $61
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Blue Ridge $18
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Blue Ridge

For Blue Ridge, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hour Culture Tour in Helen: $29
  • 2-Hour Helen Haunts and History Walk Tour: $29
  • Helen Haunts, Murder, Mystery Tour With Paranormal Investigation: $20
  • Helen’s Ghosts of Christmas Past Walking Tour: $26

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $90
  • 8 Hours Cosmic Ashtray Experience in Escalante: $299
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $115
  • Bryce Canyon National Park 15-Minute Helicopter Tour: $165
  • Bryce Canyon National Park 30-Minute Helicopter Tour: $299
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Bryce Canyon Photography Tours: $289
  • Bryce Canyon Private Tour: $149
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Blue Ridge $20
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


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

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


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