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

Should you visit Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a active, adventurous , and picturesque city. Flagstaff is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Flagstaff travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. The famous beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Flagstaff. Although Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Flagstaff has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Flagstaff is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Flagstaff and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Flagstaff is popular for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66. It is also home to Walnut Canyon National Monument.

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

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

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Flagstaff is very good for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Flagstaff offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.

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 Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Flagstaff is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Flagstaff has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

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 Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff has a few options to choose from. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

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 Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a park with a few options for its resorts. However, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is not a resort destination.


Is Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon National Park are destinations which offer amazing hiking.

Around Flagstaff visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

Bryce Canyon National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

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

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.

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 Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. 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.

Flagstaff is a gorgeous place to visit. While the city itself isn't exactly beautiful, the surrounding landscapes are surreal and truly unique.


Is Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon National Park are superb to visit with kids.

Flagstaff is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is well known for couples. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Bryce Canyon National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Flagstaff is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.

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

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Flagstaff is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.


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

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

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 Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Flagstaff
Bryce Canyon National Park

Flagstaff is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Flagstaff is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. 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 Flagstaff Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Flagstaff, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Flagstaff than Bryce Canyon 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 Flagstaff.


  • How many days in Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Flagstaff 2-4 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Flagstaff, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this active destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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.

You'll find around the park of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Flagstaff, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

You'll find around the other-worldly destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Flagstaff. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the spectacular park of Bryce Canyon National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

A week in Flagstaff or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Flagstaff. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


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

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

  • Flagstaff Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Flagstaff $207
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Flagstaff is $207, 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 Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Flagstaff $86
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Flagstaff $172
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Flagstaff $37
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Flagstaff 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
    Flagstaff $95
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Flagstaff $28
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Flagstaff

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

  • Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park Tour with Lunch & Pickup: $245
  • Comprehensive Grand Canyon Tour from Flagstaff: $209
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour: $28
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Walking Tour: $28
  • Family-Friendly Ghost Walking Tour in Flagstaff: $30
  • Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course-Adult Course: $65
  • Flagstaff Segway Tour: $129
  • Flagstaff Underground: Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Flagstaff's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Adults-Only Haunted Walking Tour: $35
  • Family Friendly Haunted Walking Tour: $30
  • Grand Canyon, Wupatki & Volcano Christian Tour: $209

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
    Flagstaff $29
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78

Sample the Local Flavors in Flagstaff

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

  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl: $50
  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl Of Downtown Flagstaff: $60


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


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