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

Should you visit Boone or Yosemite National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Boone and Yosemite National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a charming, relaxing, and quaint town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, Boone attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Boone 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.

Boone and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boone. Although Boone and Yosemite National Park are popular destinations, Boone has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boone is very popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Yosemite National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Boone and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Boone is famous for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. It is also well known for the Blue Ridge Parkway.

How is Boone 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 Boone. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Boone or Yosemite National Park Better for Skiing?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Boone is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Yosemite National Park is not a skiing destination.

Boone is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Yosemite National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Boone is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite 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 Boone. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Boone is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Boone area. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

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 Boone or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

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

Boone offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.

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 Boone or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Yosemite National Park. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Boone or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Boone is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Yosemite National Park?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Boone is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Boone. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Boone or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and 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.

Boone is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The surrounding area is filled with great natural beauty and wonderful hikes.

Is Boone or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Boone or Yosemite National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Boone. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

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 Boone or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Both Boone and Yosemite National Park are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Boone is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.


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

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boone. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

Is Boone or Yosemite National Park Better for Students?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Boone is a world-class destination for students. However, Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boone. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.

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

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Boone 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 Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.


Is Boone or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Boone
Yosemite National Park

Boone is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Boone is a very walkable destination. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

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

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

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

How long in Boone or Yosemite National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boone than Yosemite National Park 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 Boone.


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

One day in Boone or Yosemite National Park?

Boone might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this world-famous 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 Boone or Yosemite National Park?

Even though Boone is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yosemite 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 Boone or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 fun place to experience. In Yosemite 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 Boone or Yosemite National Park?

Boone is a fun place to experience. Boone is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning 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 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, Yosemite National Park or Boone?

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

  • Boone Prices
    USA Prices
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boone $211
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $211, 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 Boone and Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Boone and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Boone 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 Boone


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: Boone Hotel Prices and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Yosemite National Park $41

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

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park and Boone 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
    Boone $91
    Yosemite National Park $69
Typical Food Prices in Boone

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


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Yosemite National Park $19

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 Tour Indulging in Nature, Flavors, and History: $30
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Yosemite National Park $11


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