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

Should you visit Durham or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a diverse, student-filled, and sports oriented city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Durham 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.

Durham and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park. Although Durham and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Yellowstone National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yellowstone National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Durham attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Durham and is known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. It is also well known for Old Faithful. Durham is famous for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham 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 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Durham is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Durham offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Durham is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Durham area. 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.

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 Durham or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

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

Durham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

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 Durham or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Durham is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Yellowstone National Park. 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.

Durham is not a resort destination.


Is Durham or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

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

Many people visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Yellowstone National Park?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

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

Many visitors go to Durham to go shopping. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Durham or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national 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 Yellowstone National Park as well. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Durham is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Durham or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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.

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.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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.

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

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city 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.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Students?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Durham is well known for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Durham is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

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

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Durham is a city 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 Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the 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 Durham or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Durham
Yellowstone National Park

Durham is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable city. 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 Durham Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Durham or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Durham and Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park than in Durham. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Durham, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Durham 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 Durham.


  • How many days in Durham or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Durham 1-3 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Durham or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse city of Durham. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Durham. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Durham or Yellowstone National Park?

Durham is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Durham is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the popular destination of Yellowstone National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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, Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Durham $195
    Yellowstone National Park $181

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



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Durham $92
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Durham $184
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Durham and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Durham 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 Durham


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: Durham Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

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

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

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Durham $26
    Yellowstone National Park $34

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
    Durham $34
    Yellowstone National Park $19


When comparing the travel costs between Durham and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Durham 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 Durham Expensive? and Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.