A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Minneapolis vs. Zion National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Minneapolis or Zion 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.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a dynamic, innovative, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Zion National Park

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

Minneapolis and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Minneapolis and Zion National Park are popular destinations, Minneapolis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Minneapolis is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Zion National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Zion National Park is more touristy than Minneapolis and is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Minneapolis is famous for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also well known for Mall of America.

How is Minneapolis different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

Minneapolis is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Minneapolis can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

Is the Food Better in Minneapolis or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Minneapolis makes for a great culinary experience. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Minneapolis is well known for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Minneapolis is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Zion National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Minneapolis is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Zion National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

Minneapolis is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Minneapolis is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park More Beautiful?

Zion National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Zion National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Minneapolis and Zion National Park are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Minneapolis is very family-friendly. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Zion National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Zion National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Zion National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Minneapolis is a good city for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Zion National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park Better for Students?

Minneapolis is well known for students. However, Zion National Park is not popular with students.

Minneapolis is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Zion National Park is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Minneapolis and Zion National Park.

Minneapolis has some public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

You'll find some public transit in Zion National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

Is Minneapolis or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Minneapolis is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Minneapolis is somewhat walkable. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

Both Minneapolis and Zion 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 Zion National Park than in Minneapolis. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Minneapolis, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Minneapolis than Zion 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 Minneapolis.

One day in Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the innovative destination of Minneapolis. This city offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning park of Zion National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

Minneapolis is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the innovative city of Minneapolis. Most people visit for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Minneapolis has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned destination of Zion National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Minneapolis. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the shopping. Five days 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking park of Zion National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Minneapolis or Zion National Park?

Minneapolis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Zion National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this park.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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