A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boise vs. Yellowstone National Park for Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Should I visit Boise or Yellowstone 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.

Boise

Boise is a authentic, friendly, and welcoming city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Boise travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-famous, popular, and immense national park. Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Boise and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park. Although Boise and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Yellowstone National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yellowstone National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Boise attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Boise and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. It is also well known for Old Faithful. Boise is famous for its many outdoor and recreational activities.

How is Boise different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Boise is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Boise. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Boise or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Both Boise and Yellowstone National Park offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

Boise may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. While Idaho has long been associated with the potato, the locals usually think of "finger steaks" when describing local food. These are deep-friend beef strips that are as good as they sound.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Boise or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Boise is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Boise has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Yellowstone National Park Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is Boise or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Boise is not a resort destination.

Yellowstone National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Boise is not a resort destination.


Is Boise or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Boise is not a hiking destination.

People visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Boise is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Boise is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Boise to go shopping. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Boise or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Boise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Boise is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Boise or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Boise is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Boise doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. You'll find parks, playgrounds, and the Discovery Center which will help keep kids entertained.

Is Boise or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Boise is lacking in options for romance.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Boise is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Date night activities include dining at a nice restaurants and seeing a show at the theater.

Is Boise or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boise is lacking in options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yellowstone National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

Boise is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Backpackers rarely make their way to this town.


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

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

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

Public transit is generally limited in Boise. There are infrequent buses around town, but visitors usually have a car to get around town efficiently.

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Boise or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Boise
Yellowstone National Park

Boise is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Boise is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable neighborhoods but, in general, the town isn't very walkable.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable city. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Boise?

How long in Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Boise and Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park than in Boise. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Boise, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Boise or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boise 1-2 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the friendly city of Boise. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this unique destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Boise. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Boise is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park is a fun place to experience. In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Boise is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Boise?

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

  • Boise Prices
    USA Prices
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boise $179
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Boise is $179, while the average daily cost in Yellowstone National Park is $181. 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 Boise and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boise $75
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boise $150
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Boise and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Boise or Yellowstone 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 Boise


Hotels in Yellowstone 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: Boise Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boise $34
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Boise or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Boise 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
    Boise $78
    Yellowstone National Park $80
Typical Food Prices in Boise

For Boise, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hotel
    $59
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (for 4)
    $55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boise $30
    Yellowstone National Park $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boise

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Boise's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Edwards Boise Imax
    $27

Tours and Activities in Boise

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour: $25
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $49
  • Boise River: Guided Rafting, Swimming, and Wildlife Tour: $68
  • Culinary and Cultural Tour of Boise: $152
  • Boise's Best Brunch Experience: $152

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $250
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $299
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Salt Lake City: Yellowstone 4-day Tour with Airport Pickup: $918
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boise $24
    Yellowstone National Park $19


When comparing the travel costs between Boise and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Yellowstone 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 Boise Expensive? and Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.


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