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

Should you visit Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon 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.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nature-filled, charming, and breathtaking ski resort. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a other-worldly, breathtaking, and spectacular park. You'll find world class beauty in Bryce Canyon National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Breckenridge and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Breckenridge than Bryce Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Breckenridge is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Bryce Canyon National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Breckenridge and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Breckenridge is well known for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Also, Breckenridge is famous for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

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

Is Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Breckenridge is very popular for skiing. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.

Breckenridge is among the world's best ski destinations. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Breckenridge is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Breckenridge has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

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 Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge has a few options to choose from. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

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 Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Breckenridge is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its resorts.

With a selection of resorts, Breckenridge makes a nice vacation spot. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Is Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Breckenridge is very good for its old town. However, Bryce Canyon National Park does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Breckenridge. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Bryce Canyon National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.


Is the Shopping Better in Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Breckenridge is a great ski resort for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Breckenridge is well-known for its shopping. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

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 Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Bryce Canyon National Park as well. 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.

With stunning beauty, Breckenridge attracts visitors from all around. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Is Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park.

Breckenridge is a very kid-friendly ski resort. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park. 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 Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Breckenridge and Bryce Canyon National Park make for a great place to visit.

Breckenridge is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Bryce Canyon National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Breckenridge and Bryce Canyon National Park offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

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.


Is Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Bryce Canyon National Park

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

Breckenridge is a very easy ski resort to get around on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

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 Breckenridge Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than Bryce Canyon National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Breckenridge, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Bryce Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This ski resort offers something for everyone.

In Bryce Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Breckenridge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. Lots of people come for the skiing. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Breckenridge?

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

  • Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Breckenridge $301
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Breckenridge is $301, 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 Breckenridge and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $143
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $286
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge


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: Breckenridge Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $38
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Breckenridge 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
    Breckenridge $119
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $82
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

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

  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260
  • Astronomy Tour in Breckenridge : $59
  • Breckenridge Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Backcountry Ski Tour: $303
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Rock Climb Adventure: $204
  • Continental Divide Tour: $155
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

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

  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $90
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $115
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $125
  • Zebra Slot Canyon Hiking Tour in Escalante: $139
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139
  • Bryce Canyon Private Tour: $149
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $38
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden-Fall Foliage Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85
  • Ridden-Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer and Distillery Tour: $85


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

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