A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pittsburgh vs. Yosemite National Park for Backpackers, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh or Yosemite 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a under-rated, industrial, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Pittsburgh travel costs.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and popular national park. Many visitors also come to Yosemite National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Yosemite National Park travel costs.

Pittsburgh and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pittsburgh. Although Pittsburgh and Yosemite National Park are popular destinations, Pittsburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pittsburgh is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yosemite National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Pittsburgh is famous for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood". It is also well known for Mount Washington.

How is Pittsburgh different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Pittsburgh is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Pittsburgh offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Pittsburgh area. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Pittsburgh is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

Pittsburgh offers plenty to do in the evening. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.


Is Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yosemite National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Pittsburgh to go shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Pittsburgh is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Yosemite National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

Pittsburgh is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Yosemite National Park. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is great for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Yosemite National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yosemite National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.


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

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Pittsburgh and Yosemite National Park both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Yosemite National Park has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Is Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Pittsburgh
Yosemite National Park

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable city. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or Pittsburgh?

How long in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

Both Pittsburgh and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park than in Pittsburgh. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pittsburgh, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pittsburgh 2-3 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

The city of Pittsburgh offers museums and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With around the world-famous national park of Yosemite National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

The authentic destination of Pittsburgh offers nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With around the destination of Yosemite National Park, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pittsburgh. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Yosemite National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

Pittsburgh is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Pittsburgh. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Yosemite National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite National Park or Pittsburgh?

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

  • Pittsburgh Prices
    USA Prices
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pittsburgh $220
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Pittsburgh is $220, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Pittsburgh and Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pittsburgh $106
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pittsburgh $212
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Pittsburgh and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Pittsburgh or Yosemite 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 Pittsburgh


Hotels in Yosemite 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: Pittsburgh Hotel Prices and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pittsburgh $22
    Yosemite National Park $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Pittsburgh or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park and Pittsburgh 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
    Pittsburgh $94
    Yosemite National Park $69

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Handmade Sushi Cooking Class With Local Chef in Pittsburgh: $75
  • Downtown Pittsburgh Hidden Eats Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pittsburgh $38
    Yosemite National Park $19

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.

  • Pittsburgh's Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Echoes from the Iron Forge: Pittsburgh Phantoms Ghost Tour: $32
  • Reel Pittsburgh Movie Tour: $33
  • Black & Gold Sunset Tour: $33
  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Holiday Lights Tour: $33
  • JUST THE TOUR - Double Decker bus sightseeing tour of Pittsburgh.: $45
  • Whiskey Rebellion & Prohibition Tour: $45
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $50

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Family Explorers: Customizable Private Tour: $399
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pittsburgh $33
    Yosemite National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $69
  • Bikes & Brews Tour: Pittsburgh Brewery Tour: $89
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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

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