A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charleston vs. Yellowstone National Park for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Resorts

Should you visit Charleston or Yellowstone National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Yellowstone National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Charleston

Charleston is a quaint, historic, and classic coastal town. With stunning beauty, Charleston attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Charleston travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique, stunning, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty in Yellowstone National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Charleston and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charleston. Although Charleston and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Yellowstone National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Charleston is famous for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park.

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

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

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston 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 Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

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 Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

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

Charleston has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

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 Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Music?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Yellowstone National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston is well known for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Charleston is considered a top beach destination. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for its Old Town?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

Charleston has a world-famous historical area. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yellowstone National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Yellowstone National Park?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

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

Charleston is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Charleston or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Yellowstone National Park as well. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Charleston is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The charming history, beautiful architecture, and historic churches all make this city one of the most beautiful in the southern United States.


Is Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Yellowstone National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly coastal town. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston is very popular for couples. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Yellowstone National Park is a great coastal town if you're traveling as 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.

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

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.


Is Charleston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Students?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston is a popular place for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Charleston is popular with students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

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

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston is a coastal town 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 Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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 Charleston or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Charleston
Yellowstone National Park

Charleston is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable coastal town. 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 Charleston Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Charleston or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Charleston and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Charleston than Yellowstone National Park. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Yellowstone 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 Charleston.


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

One day in Charleston or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the classic coastal town of Charleston. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

With around the popular national park of Yellowstone 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 Charleston or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Charleston. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

With around the destination of Yellowstone National Park, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Charleston or Yellowstone National Park?

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park, a popular national 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 national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Charleston or Yellowstone National Park?

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Charleston?

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

  • Charleston Prices
    USA Prices
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Charleston $212
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Charleston is $212, 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 Charleston and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charleston $90
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charleston $180
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Charleston and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Charleston 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 Charleston


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: Charleston Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charleston $33
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charleston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Charleston:

  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $268
  • Charleston city to Charleston Airport (CHS) - Departure Private Transfer: $134
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $80
  • Folly Beach to Charleston Airport (CHS) - Departure Private Transfer: $147
  • From Boone Hall Plantation Entry with Transfers: $71
  • Kiawah/Seabrook Islands to Charleston Airport (CHS) – Departure Private Transfer: $208
  • Private Transfer from Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston Port: $134

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

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Charleston 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
    Charleston $100
    Yellowstone National Park $80
Typical Food Prices in Charleston

Some typical examples of dining costs in Charleston are as follows:


  • Lunch in downtown Charleston for two
    $21
  • Breakfast
    $26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Charleston

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

  • Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise: $72
  • Hands-on Cooking Class in Charleston: $89
  • Tastes Through Time - Charleston's Best Food Tour!: $96
  • Tastes Through Time - Charleston's Best Food Tour: $98
  • Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $100
  • Charleston French Quarter or Brunch Food Tour with 7+ Tastings: $110
  • Downtown Charleston Food Tour: $110
  • Small Group Food Tour – Savor the Flavors: $111
  • Savor the Flavors Upper King Street Food Tour: $111
  • Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise: $111
  • Historic Downtown Food Tour: $112
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $116

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charleston $22
    Yellowstone National Park $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Charleston

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


  • Patriots Point (for 2)
    $60

Tours and Activities in Charleston

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

  • Charleston Self-Guided Ghost Tour in 12 Languages: $5.00
  • Charleston's Haunted Ghost Tour - Solo Smart Phone Guided Tour: $6.75
  • Charleston Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $7.78
  • Charleston Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Self-Guided "The French Quarter Charleston" Solo Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Charleston Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Window into American History: A Self-guided Charleston Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Charleston Self Guided Ghost Tour in 12 Languages: $10
  • Charleston Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • South Carolina Audio Tour: Charleston Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • 300 Years of War and Peacetime in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting: $17

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • Yellowstone's Old Faithful Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Yellowstone National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Yellowstone Lake & Hot Springs / 3 Hour Morning or Twilight Tour : $125
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charleston $36
    Yellowstone National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Charleston

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Charleston:

  • Charleston Bar Hunt: Charleston Chase Bar Crawl: $13
  • Striped Pig Distillery Tour and Tasting: $22
  • Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Charleston Women and Wine Tour: $34
  • Women and Wine Tour: $34
  • Charleston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Bay Street Bastards Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl for the Broken-Hearted: $35
  • Bay Street Bastards Pub Crawl Shared Tour in Charleston : $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl for the Broken-Hearted: $35
  • Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl: $35
  • 108 Elemental Presents Spirits & Spirits: Pub Crawl w/ Adam Miles: $36


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

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