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

Should you visit Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Jacksonville and Yellowstone National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a fun, vibrant, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Jacksonville travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a immense, unique, and stunning national park. Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Jacksonville and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jacksonville. Although Jacksonville and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Jacksonville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jacksonville is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Yellowstone National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also well known for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

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

Jacksonville offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Jacksonville is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Jacksonville is an experience not to be missed. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

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 Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Jacksonville is well known for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Jacksonville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

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 Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Yellowstone National Park to choose from. 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.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.


Is Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Jacksonville is well known for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Jacksonville is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

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

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Jacksonville is well known for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Yellowstone National Park. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.


Is Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yellowstone National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Is Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Jacksonville is a popular place for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Jacksonville is popular with students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

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

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Jacksonville is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Jacksonville, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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 Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Yellowstone National Park

Jacksonville is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Jacksonville is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

Families should spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than Jacksonville. 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.

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

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


  • How many days in Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant city of Jacksonville. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this vast national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Jacksonville. Most people come for the beaches. 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 fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park?

Jacksonville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Jacksonville or Yellowstone National Park?

Jacksonville 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Jacksonville?

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

  • Jacksonville Prices
    USA Prices
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jacksonville $289
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $289, 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 Jacksonville and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville


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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Jacksonville Airport to Casa Monica Resort and Spa Transfer: $189
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Jacksonville Airport Limo Transfer to Hammock Beach Golf Resort: $275
  • Jacksonville Airport Private Lux Car Transfer to Downtown Hotels: $139
  • Luxury Car Transfer JAX Airport to Margaritaville Beach Hotel: $155
  • Miami: One Way To/From Airport Transfer: $78
  • Private Transfer JAX Airport to Ritz Carlton Amelia Island: $135
  • Private Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Downtown Savannah Hotels: $300
  • Private Transfer from Jacksonville to Cruise Port Jacksonville: $108

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

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $166
    Yellowstone National Park $80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

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

  • San Marco Food Tour Culinary Journey in Jacksonville: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

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

  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $8.00
  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour: $8.60
  • Scenic A1A Byway Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Main Event Improv Comedy Ticket: $17
  • Murray Hill Walking Mural Tour: $25
  • Bike Ride Through Ponte Vedra Beach Private Tour Florida: $27
  • Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Specters of the Spanish Moss: Jacksonville Ghost Tour: $32
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • Jacksonville FL: Ortega River Kayak Rental Adventure: $40
  • Self-Guided Kayaking: Real Florida Adventure: $45
  • Electric Bike Tour with Free Application for Navigation: $50

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $250
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $299
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Salt Lake City: Yellowstone 4-day Tour with Airport Pickup: $918
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Yellowstone National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

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

  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135


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

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


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