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

Should you visit Monterey 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 Monterey 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Monterey travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique, stunning, and breathtaking 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.

Monterey and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monterey. Although Monterey and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Monterey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Monterey and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also well known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

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

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

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

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

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Dining out in Monterey is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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 Monterey or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

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 Monterey or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Monterey or Yellowstone National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monterey or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a popular place for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Monterey or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking trails. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Yellowstone National Park?

Monterey 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 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Monterey or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Monterey or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Monterey is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Monterey or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Monterey and Yellowstone National Park both superb destinations for a couple.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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

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

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Monterey 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 Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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

Monterey 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 Monterey. There is a bus system through 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 Monterey or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Monterey is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

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

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

How long in Monterey or Yellowstone National Park?

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

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

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

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

One day in Monterey or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laid back city of Monterey. 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.

The beautiful national park of Yellowstone National Park offers . 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Monterey. 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 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Monterey 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yellowstone National Park, 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Monterey 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. This national park 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.

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