A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Families, Couples, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Bryce Canyon 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.

Panama City

Panama City is a active, cosmopolitan, and fun-filled beach town. Panama City is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Panama City travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a other-worldly, breathtaking, and spectacular park. The famous beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Panama City and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Panama City than Bryce Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Panama City is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Bryce Canyon National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Panama City is well known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Also, Panama City is famous for Pier Park. Bryce Canyon National Park is well known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters.

How is Panama City different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Panama City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City is a great beach town for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Panama City has something for everybody. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Music?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City is very good for its live music scene. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its resorts.

With a selection of resorts, Panama City makes a nice vacation spot. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City is a great beach town for the beach. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Panama City is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Bryce Canyon National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Panama City. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. This park is one of the most uniquely beautiful, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the colors glow and the hoodoos have a magical quality.

Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bryce Canyon National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Panama City is one of the most popular family destinations. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Bryce Canyon National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.


Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City and Bryce Canyon National Park are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bryce Canyon National Park. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Panama City is a great beach town for its student-friendly activities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Panama City is very popular with students. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.


Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Is Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Panama City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a park with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

For even more information, also check out Is Panama City Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Panama City than Bryce Canyon National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Panama City 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Panama City 3-7 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this active destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the spectacular park of Bryce Canyon 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 Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the live music and food that this fun-filled destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking park of Bryce Canyon 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 Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beach town offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Bryce Canyon National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Panama City?

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

  • Panama City Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Panama City $272
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $272, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $159. 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 Panama City and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Bryce Canyon 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 Panama City


Hotels in Bryce Canyon 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: Panama City Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Panama City 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
    Panama City $115
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Panama City

Here are a few actual costs in Panama City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Big Kahuna Sunset Dolphin Cruise Experience: $55
  • 2 Hour Private Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour Shell Island: $70
  • 2 Hour Shell Island Jet Ski Dolphin Tour: $149
  • 2 Hours Shell Island Jet Ski Tour: $159
  • 3 Hour Tiki Boat Adventure: $55
  • 90 Minute Sunset Tiki Boat Tour: $45
  • Adventure Tour to Shell Island on the Privateer Catamaran: $65
  • Cruisin Tikis Shell Island Big Kahuna Beach and Snorkel Cruise: $70
  • Cypress Springs Eco Adventure: $130
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $40
  • Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour: $50
  • Original CRUISIN TIKIS 3 Hour Cruise, Snorkel, Swim/float Sandbar: $80

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $90
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $115
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $125
  • Zebra Slot Canyon Hiking Tour in Escalante: $139
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139
  • Bryce Canyon Private Tour: $149
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


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

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