A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Death Valley National Park vs. Park City Utah for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

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 Death Valley National Park and Park City Utah can help you decide which place is right for you.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a striking, vast, and dramatic national park. Many visitors also come to Death Valley National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Death Valley National Park travel costs.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a high energy, adventurous, and active town. With stunning beauty, Park City Utah attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Park City Utah travel costs.

Death Valley National Park and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Park City Utah. Although Death Valley National Park and Park City Utah are popular destinations, Park City Utah has more sights and attractions for tourists. Park City Utah is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Death Valley National Park attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Park City Utah is more touristy than Death Valley National Park and is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Deer Valley Resort. Death Valley National Park is famous for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.

How is Death Valley National Park different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for snow skiing. However, Death Valley National Park is not a skiing destination.

Park City Utah is among the world's best ski destinations. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

Death Valley National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah.

Death Valley National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.

While most people don't head to Park City Utah specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is the Food Better in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Dining out in Park City Utah is an experience not to be missed. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

Death Valley National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

Park City Utah is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

Death Valley National Park doesn't offer many options. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.


Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Park City Utah. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Death Valley National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.

Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

You'll find high quality hiking in both Death Valley National Park and Park City Utah.

Death Valley National Park is a popular spot for hiking. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Park City Utah. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Is the Shopping Better in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.


Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah More Beautiful?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

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

Many visitors also come to Death Valley National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The striking desert setting offers stunning beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is at its most beautiful when the sun is low during sunrise and sunset.

Park City Utah is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and is a charming and beautiful mountain town.

Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Death Valley National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Park City Utah is one of the most popular family destinations. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

Death Valley National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for couples. Also, Death Valley National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Park City Utah has plenty to offer. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

Death Valley National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.


Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

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

A large number of backpackers visit Death Valley National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.

Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Park City Utah can get you to most places easily. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is quite limited in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.

Is Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Death Valley National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Park City Utah on foot. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable national park. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Park City Utah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Death Valley National Park?

How long in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

In either Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Park City Utah than Death Valley National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Death Valley National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Park City Utah.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah than Death Valley 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Death Valley National Park 2-4 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

In Death Valley National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this high energy destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

Death Valley National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Five days in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Death Valley National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this active destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This town offers something for everyone.


A week in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park of Death Valley National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Park City Utah. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Death Valley National Park?

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

  • Death Valley National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Park City Utah Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Death Valley National Park $101
    Park City Utah $368

The average daily cost (per person) in Death Valley National Park is $101, while the average daily cost in Park City Utah is $368. 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 Death Valley National Park and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Death Valley National Park $37
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Death Valley National Park $74
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Death Valley National Park and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah? 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 Death Valley National Park


Hotels in Park City Utah


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: Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Death Valley National Park $41
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $175
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $217

Is it cheaper to fly into Death Valley National Park or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Death Valley National Park 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
    Death Valley National Park $35
    Park City Utah $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Death Valley National Park $36
    Park City Utah $68

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Death Valley National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Death Valley National Park: $20

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $118
  • Ebike Adventure with Sitemap : $125
  • Park City Food and Cultural Walking Tour: $150
  • Guided Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • Gourmet Dining Experience: $215
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Death Valley National Park $8.57
    Park City Utah $46


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

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