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

Should you visit Nashville or Yellowstone 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 Nashville and Yellowstone 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.

Nashville

Nashville is a country music lovers, eclectic, and southern city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, museums, and nightlife. See Nashville travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking, vast, and world-famous national park. Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Nashville and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • 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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nashville than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nashville is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Nashville and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Nashville is well known for its influence in country music and its many live music venues. Also, Nashville is famous for The Grand Ole Opry.

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

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

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Nashville is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nashville. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

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

Dining out in Nashville is an experience not to be missed. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

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 Nashville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

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

Nashville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

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 Nashville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Music?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Nashville is very popular for its music scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a live music destination.

In Nashville you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Yellowstone National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Nashville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Nashville makes a nice vacation spot. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Is Nashville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

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

Around Yellowstone National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Nashville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nashville or Yellowstone National Park?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Nashville is a city with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nashville has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Nashville or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Nashville 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.

Nashville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nashville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

Is Nashville or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for romance. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Nashville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.


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

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Yellowstone National Park. 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 backpackers visit Nashville. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

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

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Neither Nashville or Yellowstone National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Nashville or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Nashville
Yellowstone National Park

Neither Nashville or Yellowstone National Park are walkable places.

Nashville is not a very walkable city. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

Yellowstone National Park is not a 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 Nashville Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Nashville or Yellowstone National Park?

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

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

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


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

One day in Nashville or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the country music lovers city of Nashville. 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.

You'll find around the national park of Yellowstone National Park. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Nashville or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nashville. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the live music. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find around the vast destination of Yellowstone National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nashville or Yellowstone National Park?

Nashville 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.

You'll find around the vast national park of Yellowstone National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.


A week in Nashville or Yellowstone National Park?

Nashville is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the live music. 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 choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yellowstone National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Nashville?

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

  • Nashville Prices
    USA Prices
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nashville $202
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Nashville is $202, 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 Nashville and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nashville $99
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nashville $198
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Nashville and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nashville 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 Nashville


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: Nashville Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nashville $21
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nashville

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

  • Nashville Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Nashville: $90
  • Airport to Downtown Private Transfer: $70
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $60
  • Transfer from John C Tune Airport-JWN: $150

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

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Nashville 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
    Nashville $72
    Yellowstone National Park $80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nashville

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

  • East Nashville Walking Food Tour with 5+ Tastings: $96
  • The Gulch Walking & Tasting Food Tour: $98
  • Secret Food Tour Nashville - 12South: $104
  • East Nashville Guided Walking Food Tour: $145
  • Dishing on Downtown: Nashville Food Tour: $145
  • Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Food Tour: $189

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nashville $27
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Nashville

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

  • Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Factory Tour: $8.74
  • Music History Guided Walking Tour: $10
  • Legends of Country Music Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Hatch Show Print Shop Guided Tour: $23
  • Haunted History Walking Tour with Guide: $25
  • Nashville's Wildest Honky Tonk Party Bus | Public Tour (21+): $25
  • Nightmare & Hauntings of Music City Nashville Ghost Tour: $27
  • Madame Tussauds Admission Ticket: $30
  • True Crime Walking Tour from Mr. E's Crimecast: $30
  • Guided Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $30
  • Ryman Auditorium Self-Guided Tour: $30
  • Battle at Belle Meade Civil War Tour: $32

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
    Nashville $15
    Yellowstone National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Nashville

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nashville:

  • Music City Pub Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl: $33
  • Seeking Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Live Music Bar Crawl with Local Artists: $35
  • Music History and Moonshine Pub Crawl: $35
  • Revelry Tours Nashville Bordellos, Burlesque, and Blood Tour: $35
  • Murder Mystery Interactive Party Game & Pub Crawl: $38
  • Nashville's Haunted Spirits Murder & True Crime Pub Crawl: $38
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Brewery Trolley Tour: $45
  • Nashville Bar Crawl: Guided Pub Crawl with Drinks Discounts: $48
  • Nashville's Speakeasy Secrets: True Crime Tasting Pub Crawl: $55


When comparing the travel costs between Nashville and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Nashville is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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