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

Should you visit Pasadena or Bryce Canyon 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 Pasadena and Bryce Canyon 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.

Pasadena

Pasadena is a picturesque, quaint, and charming city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Pasadena travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. You'll find world class beauty in Bryce Canyon National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Pasadena and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pasadena. Although Pasadena and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Pasadena has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pasadena is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Pasadena and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Pasadena is popular for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl. It is also home to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

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

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

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Pasadena is a great city for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Pasadena specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There's a good number of museums around town that include kids' museums, art museums, and local museums. Popular museums include the USC Pacific Asia Museum, the Norton Simon Museum, and the Pasadena Museum of History. Many people also enjoy touring the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

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.


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

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Pasadena is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Pasadena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local restaurants feature southern California cuisine as well as international flavors. Dishes often use local ingredients that are fresh and seasonal. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

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 Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Pasadena is a great city for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Pasadena has something for everybody. Much of the nightlife scene is concentrated around Old Pasadena. You'll find clubs, bars, and lounges that begin the evening with Happy Hours and then become more party-focused as the evening progresses.

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 Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Pasadena is not a resort destination.

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.

Pasadena is not a resort destination.


Is Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Pasadena is not a hiking destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Pasadena is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Pasadena is a great city for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Pasadena is well-known for its shopping. Old Pasadena is where you'll find some of the best shopping. It's filled with a charming atmosphere and interesting boutiques.

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 Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Pasadena is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Bryce Canyon National Park as well. 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.

Pasadena is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Pasadena is a family-friendly city. There are a number of kid-friendly museums around town including Kidspace Children's Museum. There are also nature centers, playgrounds, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Is Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is notable for couples. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Pasadena is a nice destination for couples. It's a charming town with a bit of a European vibe and plenty of outdoor activities. Fine dining and interesting shopping make this a nice weekend destination.

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

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. However, Pasadena is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Pasadena is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.


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

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Pasadena is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Pasadena offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses and light rail offer local transit and connect the city to nearby Los Angeles.

Public transit is generally 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 Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Pasadena
Bryce Canyon National Park

Pasadena is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Pasadena is a somewhat walkable place. Most people head to Old Pasadena, which is the most concentrated and walkable part of the city.

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.

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

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

How long in Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Pasadena because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Pasadena, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pasadena than Bryce Canyon 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 Pasadena.


  • How many days in Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pasadena 1-3 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Pasadena, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this charming destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The beautiful park of Bryce Canyon 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 Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Pasadena, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bryce Canyon National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Pasadena. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon 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 Bryce Canyon 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 Pasadena or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Pasadena. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Pasadena?

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

  • Pasadena Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pasadena $76
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Pasadena is $76, 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 Pasadena and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pasadena $25
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pasadena $50
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Pasadena and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Pasadena 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 Pasadena


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: Pasadena Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pasadena $21
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Pasadena 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
    Pasadena $32
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
Typical Food Prices in Pasadena

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pasadena are as follows:


  • Casual Dinner Out (family of 4)
    $58

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pasadena -
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Pasadena

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pasadena are as follows:

  • Los Angeles Chocolate Salon and Festival Entry Ticket: $20
  • Pasadena Ghost Tour: Purgatory Phantoms: $24

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
    Pasadena -
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


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

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


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