A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Park City Utah vs. Denali National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Park City Utah or Denali 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 Park City Utah and Denali 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.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a active, high energy, and adventurous town. The beauty of Park City Utah is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Park City Utah travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a epic, vast, and rugged park. Many visitors also come to Denali National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Park City Utah and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Park City Utah or Denali National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Park City Utah. Although Park City Utah and Denali National Park are both popular with visitors, Park City Utah has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Park City Utah is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Denali National Park is known for its impressive beauty. Park City Utah is more touristy than Denali National Park and is known for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to Deer Valley Resort. Denali National Park is popular for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is Park City Utah different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Park City Utah or Denali National Park Better for Skiing?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Denali National Park is not a skiing destination.

Park City Utah is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

Denali National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

You'll find a number of decent museums and attractions in both Denali National Park and Park City Utah.

While most people don't head to Park City Utah specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.

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

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Denali National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Park City Utah has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Denali National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Park City Utah or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

Park City Utah is a world class party destination. 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.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.


Is Park City Utah or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a great town for its luxury resorts. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Park City Utah. 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.

Denali National Park has a few great resort options. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.

Is Park City Utah or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a great town for hiking. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Park City Utah for the hiking trails. 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.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Is the Shopping Better in Park City Utah or Denali National Park?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a great town for its shopping opportunities. However, Denali National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Park City Utah is well-known for its shopping. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.


Is Park City Utah or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Denali National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

Park City Utah is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and is a charming and beautiful mountain town.

Is Park City Utah or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Park City Utah is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is Park City Utah or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Park City Utah has plenty to offer. 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.

Denali National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.


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

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Denali National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

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

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a great town for times when you don't have a car. However, Denali National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Park City Utah can get you to some places easily. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is generally limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Is Park City Utah or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Park City Utah
Denali National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

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

Denali National Park is not a walkable town. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.


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

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Park City Utah?

How long in Park City Utah or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Park City Utah or Denali National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Park City Utah due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Park City Utah, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Park City Utah or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Park City Utah 3-5 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Park City Utah or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Park City Utah. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Denali National Park, you'll find . But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Park City Utah or Denali National Park?

Park City Utah is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Denali National Park 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.

Five days in Park City Utah or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Park City Utah for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the beautiful town of Park City Utah. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

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


A week in Park City Utah or Denali National Park?

The high energy destination of Park City Utah offers skiing and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the park of Denali National Park. 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.


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, Denali National Park or Park City Utah?

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

  • Park City Utah Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Park City Utah $368
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Park City Utah is $368, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. 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 Park City Utah and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Park City Utah $202
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Park City Utah $404
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Park City Utah and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Park City Utah or Denali 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 Park City Utah


Hotels in Denali 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: Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Park City Utah $72
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Park City Utah or Denali National Park?

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Park City Utah $68
    Denali National Park $30

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

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

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

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Hiking Tour in Denali: $209
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in the Alaska Range - Denali Area: $199
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $190

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Park City Utah $46
    Denali National Park $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Park City Utah and Denali National Park, we can see that Park City Utah is more expensive. And not only is Denali National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Denali National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Denali 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 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 Denali National Park.

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