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

Should you visit Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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 Durham and Bryce Canyon National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a sports oriented, diverse, and student-filled city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Durham travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. You'll find world class beauty in Bryce Canyon National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Durham and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bryce Canyon National Park. Although Durham and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Bryce Canyon National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bryce Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Durham is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Durham and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. It is also home to . Durham is popular for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.



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

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

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Durham is a great city for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Durham specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

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.


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

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

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

Durham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

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 Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Durham 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 Durham has a few options to choose from. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

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 Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Durham is not a resort destination.

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.

Durham is not a resort destination.


Is Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Durham is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

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

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Durham is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Durham. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

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 Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Durham is not a destination known for its 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.

Durham is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a well-known place for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.


Is Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Durham is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Durham is very popular with students. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Durham and Bryce Canyon National Park offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

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 Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Durham
Bryce Canyon National Park

Durham and Bryce Canyon National Park both are decent when exploring on foot.

Durham is generally not very walkable. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Durham Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Durham because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Durham, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Durham 1-3 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Durham, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this sports oriented destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Bryce Canyon 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 Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Durham, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Durham. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bryce Canyon 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 Durham or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Durham. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


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

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

  • Durham Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Durham $195
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Durham is $195, 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 Durham and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Durham $92
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Durham $184
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Durham and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Durham 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 Durham


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Durham $33
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Durham 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
    Durham $77
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Durham $26
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

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
    Durham $34
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Durham and Bryce Canyon National Park, we can see that Durham 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 Durham would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Durham 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 Durham Expensive? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Expensive?.