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

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Yellowstone National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Saint Petersburg travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a popular, immense, and unique national park. Many visitors also come to Yellowstone National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Saint Petersburg and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
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 Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Yellowstone National Park and Saint Petersburg have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Saint Petersburg is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Saint Petersburg is well known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

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

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

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Saint Petersburg is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint Petersburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

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

Dining out in Saint Petersburg is an experience not to be missed. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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 Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Saint Petersburg is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Saint Petersburg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

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 Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Yellowstone National Park. 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, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.


Is Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Saint Petersburg is very popular for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Saint Petersburg. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Saint Petersburg is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Saint Petersburg to go shopping. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Yellowstone National Park because of it's amazing beauty. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Yellowstone National Park is a very kid-friendly coastal city. 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.

Is Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Both Saint Petersburg and Yellowstone National Park are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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


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

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination 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.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

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

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Saint Petersburg is a coastal city with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

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

Is Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Yellowstone National Park

Saint Petersburg is a coastal city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable coastal 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 Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg.


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the underrated coastal city of Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 world-famous destination of Yellowstone National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

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

You'll find around the vast national park of Yellowstone National Park. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

Saint Petersburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

Saint Petersburg is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Saint Petersburg?

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

  • Saint Petersburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Petersburg $239
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $239, 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 Saint Petersburg and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $84
    Yellowstone National Park $80
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Yellowstone National Park $34

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
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Yellowstone National Park $19


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

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