A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Monterey vs. Park City Utah for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Monterey or Park City Utah?

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 Monterey and Park City Utah. 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Monterey travel costs.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a high energy, adventurous, and active town. With stunning beauty, Park City Utah attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Park City Utah travel costs.

Monterey and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Monterey or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Park City Utah. Although Monterey and Park City Utah are popular destinations, Park City Utah has more sights and attractions for tourists. Park City Utah is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Monterey attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Park City Utah is more touristy than Monterey and is known for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Deer Valley Resort. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Monterey different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Monterey is not a skiing destination.

Park City Utah is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

Monterey is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Monterey or Park City Utah?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Monterey is great for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is the Food Better in Monterey or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Monterey and Park City Utah can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Park City Utah makes for a great culinary experience. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Park City Utah has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.


Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Park City Utah to choose from. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Monterey is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Beaches?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Monterey is a good destination for the beach. However, Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Monterey offers a nice beach destination. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Park City Utah is not a beach destination.


Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Park City Utah. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Park City Utah?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Monterey and Park City Utah.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Park City Utah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Is Monterey or Park City Utah More Beautiful?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Park City Utah attracts visitors from all around. It's surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and is a charming and beautiful mountain town.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Both Monterey and Park City Utah are terrific family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Park City Utah is a very family-friendly destination. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Park City Utah is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Monterey and Park City Utah are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.


Is Monterey or Park City Utah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Park City Utah offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Monterey or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Monterey
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Park City Utah. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Monterey Worth Visiting? and Is Park City Utah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Monterey?

How long in Monterey or Park City Utah?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah than Monterey 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Monterey or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Monterey 1-3 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Monterey or Park City Utah?

In Monterey, you'll find nightlife and food. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The beautiful town of Park City Utah offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Monterey or Park City Utah?

Monterey is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Park City Utah is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Monterey or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Park City Utah is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Park City Utah, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Monterey or Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Monterey. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Park City Utah is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Monterey?

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

  • Monterey Prices
    USA Prices
    Park City Utah Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Monterey $211
    Park City Utah $368

The average daily cost (per person) in Monterey is $211, while the average daily cost in Park City Utah is $368. 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 Monterey and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Monterey $90
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Monterey $180
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Monterey and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Monterey or Park City Utah? 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 Monterey


Hotels in Park City Utah


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: Monterey Hotel Prices and Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Monterey $32
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $175
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $217

Is it cheaper to fly into Monterey or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Monterey 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
    Monterey $98
    Park City Utah $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Monterey $27
    Park City Utah $68

Tours and Activities in Monterey

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

  • "Family Friendly" Scenic E-Bike Tour along 17 Mile Dr: $79
  • Big Sur: Sightseeing Tour with 4 to 5 Stops: $214
  • From San Francisco: Monterey and Carmel Day Tour: $131
  • Mist, Mayhem & Murder: Monterey Ghost Tours: $24
  • Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise: $95
  • Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour: $75
  • Monterey County Salinas Valley Farm Tour: $208
  • Monterey Peninsula Sightseeing Tour including 17 Mile Drive: $202
  • Monterey- 3 Hour GPS Guided Tour: $229
  • 1-Hour GPS Guided Scooter Car Tour: $112
  • 17-Mile Drive Guided E-Bike Tour: $79
  • 17-Mile Drive Pebble Beach E-Bike Tour: $75

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Ebike Adventure with Sitemap : $125
  • Gourmet Dining Experience: $215
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260
  • Guided Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • Park City Food and Cultural Walking Tour: $150
  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Monterey $21
    Park City Utah $46

Sample the Local Flavors in Monterey

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

  • Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour: $206


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

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


Which is Bigger, Monterey or Park City Utah?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Park City Utah. When comparing the sizes of Monterey and Park City Utah, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.