A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. Zion National Park for Attractions, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Boston or Zion 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 Boston and Zion 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.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Boston travel costs.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Boston and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • 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 Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boston or Zion National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Zion National Park are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Zion National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Zion National Park is more touristy than Boston and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

How is Boston different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or Zion National Park?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.


Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Theater?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is well known for theatre. However, Zion National Park is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Zion National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is well known for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Boston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.


Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Music?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Zion National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Zion National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Boston
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Zion National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Beaches?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Zion National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for its Old Town?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Boston
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Zion National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Zion National Park?

Boston
Zion National Park

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

Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.


Is Boston or Zion National Park More Beautiful?

Boston
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

Boston is a beautiful place to visit, too. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zion National Park is very family-friendly. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Boston
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Zion National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.


Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zion National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Boston or Zion National Park Better for Students?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is a must-visit destination for students. However, Zion National Park is not popular with students.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Zion National Park is not popular with students.

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

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Boston has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

While Zion National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.


Is Boston or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Boston
Zion National Park

Boston is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Boston?

How long in Boston or Zion National Park?

Both Boston and Zion 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 Zion National Park than in Boston. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Zion 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 Boston.


  • How many days in Boston or Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Boston or Zion National Park?

Boston is a traditional big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Zion National Park. 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.

A weekend in Boston or Zion National Park?

Boston is a popular place to visit. Boston is a historic city where you can fill many days. Most people visit for the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Zion National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Boston or Zion National Park?

Boston is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zion National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or Zion National Park?

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Zion National Park. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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


Which place is cheaper, Zion National Park or Boston?

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

  • Boston Prices
    USA Prices
    Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boston $291
    Zion National Park $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $291, while the average daily cost in Zion National Park is $146. 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 Boston and Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Boston and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Boston or Zion 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 Boston


Hotels in Zion 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: Boston Hotel Prices and Zion National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    Zion National Park $30
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Boston hotels to Flynn Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $121
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Boston Airport BOS to Boston City in Luxury SUV: $143
  • Arrival Transfer: Boston Airport BOS to Boston by Business Car: $119
  • Boston Airport (BOS) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $70
  • Boston Airport (BOS): Transfer to Flynn Cruise Port Boston: $184
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $121
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $190
  • Boston Logan Airport Chauffeur, Boston Airport private Transfer: $50
  • Boston Logan Airport Transfer Limo & Car Service: $140
  • Boston Logan International Airport: Transfer to Boston: $120
  • Boston Logan Intl Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or Zion National Park?

Prices for flights to both Zion National Park and Boston 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
    Boston $86
    Zion National Park $64

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

  • Self Guided "The North End Pizza, Cannoli and Picnic" Solo Walking Tour : $5.50
  • Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $65
  • Boston Pizza Lovers Food & History Walking Food Tour: $69
  • North End Pizza Walking Tour with 3 Slices & Cannoli: $69
  • 2-Hour Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Boston: $75
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $75
  • Pizza, Beer, and Paul Revere Tour: $75
  • City Cruises Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $89
  • Boston’s Politically Incorrect North End Food tour: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boston $33
    Zion National Park $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Boston Historical and Heritage Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Self Guided "Historic Boston Downtown Freedom Trail" Audio/GPS Walking Tour: $5.00
  • The Ghosts of Boston's Past Haunted Self-guided Tour: $5.00
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Boston North End: $5.75
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Salem: $7.75
  • Harvard's Haunts Solo Smart Phone Guided App Ghost Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Self Guided Classic Freedom Trail Location Aware (GPS) Walking Audio Tour: $7.75
  • City History and Highlights Audio App Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Boston's Old North Church Admission with Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.00
  • Boston Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.32
  • Harvard’s Secret Society: Exploration Game and Tour: $8.93
  • Boston Harborwalk & Tea Party Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $8.99

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

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

  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $22
  • Zion Canyon Hot Springs Soak Experience: $36
  • East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour: $58
  • Zion Sunset Jeep Tour: $81
  • Harry Potter's Zion Ghost Tour: $85
  • Virgin: Zion National Park Off-Road Vehicle Tour & Hike: $89
  • From Virgin: Zion Night Sky Jeep Tour with a Telescope: $100
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon Jeep Tour: $104
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105
  • East Zion Brushy Cove Jeep Tour: $117
  • East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • Private Photographers Choice Slot Canyon Tour: $125

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    Zion National Park $8.28

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Bar Crawl Back Bay Beat Bar Craw: $15
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $35
  • 2 Hour Historic Pub Crawl in Boston: $35
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $36
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $56
  • Boston Freedom Trail History Pub Crawl Small-Group Tour: $60
  • Freedom Trail History Tour and Brewery Taste: $71
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Boston: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Distillery in Boston: $75


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

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