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

Should you visit Detroit or Yosemite National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Yosemite 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Detroit travel costs.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a popular, world-famous, and stunning national park. Yosemite National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Yosemite National Park travel costs.

Detroit and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit. Although Detroit and Yosemite National Park are both popular with visitors, Detroit has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Detroit is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Yosemite National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Detroit is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Detroit or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

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

Detroit offers plenty to do in the evening. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Detroit or Yosemite National Park Better for Music?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Detroit is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a live music destination.

In Detroit you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Yosemite National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Detroit or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Detroit or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yosemite National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Yosemite National Park?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Detroit is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Detroit or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Yosemite National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Detroit or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yosemite National Park is very family-friendly. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Detroit or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.


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

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yosemite National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Yosemite National Park has some public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Detroit or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Detroit
Yosemite National Park

Detroit is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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


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

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

How long in Detroit or Yosemite National Park?

Both Detroit and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than in Detroit. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Detroit or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Detroit 1-3 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Detroit or Yosemite National Park?

The city of Detroit offers shopping and museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

In Yosemite National Park, you'll find . Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Detroit or Yosemite National Park?

The hardworking destination of Detroit offers museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Yosemite National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Detroit or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Detroit. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yosemite National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Detroit or Yosemite National Park?

Detroit is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Detroit. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yosemite National Park. In Yosemite National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite National Park or Detroit?

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

  • Detroit Prices
    USA Prices
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Detroit $165
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $165, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Detroit and Yosemite National Park in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Detroit or Yosemite National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Detroit


Hotels in Yosemite National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Detroit Hotel Prices and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    Yosemite National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

Also for Detroit, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $155
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $155
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $183

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

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park and Detroit 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
    Detroit $76
    Yosemite National Park $69

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Secret Food Tour with Tastings: $80
  • Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City: $95
  • Detroit Flavors Food Tour: $150
  • Delicious in Detroit Food Tour: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Detroit $21
    Yosemite National Park $19

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Self Guided Detroit's Spirit and History Solo Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $11
  • Self-Guided Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Ann Arbor MI: $15
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $20
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • French History Tour of Detroit A Self-Guided Audio Tour App: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $22
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $23
  • Macabre, Murder, & Mayhem in Motor City: Detroit Ghost Tour: $24

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

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

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Family Explorers: Customizable Private Tour: $399
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Yosemite National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between Detroit and Yosemite National Park, we can see that Detroit is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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