A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Salt Lake City vs. Yellowstone National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City and Yellowstone National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a notable, religious, and architectural city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Salt Lake City travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking, vast, and world-famous national park. Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Salt Lake City and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Temple Square
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • 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 Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park. Although Salt Lake City and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Yellowstone National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yellowstone National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Salt Lake City attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Salt Lake City and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. It is also well known for Old Faithful. Salt Lake City is famous for its religious landmarks and its large Mormon population.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Salt Lake City is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Salt Lake City offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the fascinating sights around town are influenced by the city's Mormon culture. Temple Square is a highlight for most visitors. It spans 35 acres and is beautifully landscaped with several fountains. There are also four main churches - The Temple, the Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and Assembly Hall. The city also has several museums such as the Natural History Museum and the historic Liberty Park.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Salt Lake City is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Salt Lake City area. In recent years the food scene has really improved and you'll find a variety of restaurants that serve everything from upscale dishes to more casual fare.

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 Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Salt Lake City is a city with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Salt Lake City is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Known for its large Mormon population, nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Salt Lake City. While it will likely never be a party city, there are a growing number of entertainment options around town.

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 Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Salt Lake City is not a resort destination.

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.

Salt Lake City is not a resort destination.


Is Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Salt Lake City is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Salt Lake City has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a number of good ski resorts nearby, making this a good base or starting point for a ski vacation.

Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Salt Lake City has hiking trails worth exploring. The city offers easy access to many diverse trails, so if you're a nature enthusiasts, you'll appreciate this destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Salt Lake City is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Salt Lake City to go shopping. The city has sprawling outlet malls as well as local stores and craft shops. City Creek Center is a favorite shopping destination, but there are also several large shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Salt Lake City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Salt Lake City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Yellowstone National Park. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City. There are museums that kids will enjoy like the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Leonardo Museum. There are also fun-filled activities like a visit to Lagoon Amusement Park. You can learn about history at This Is the Place Heritage Park or learn about the undersea world at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium.

Is Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for couples. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Salt Lake City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with beautiful gardens like Red Butte Garden. There are also nice restaurants and romantic hotels that will make this a nice place for a couple's getaway.


Is Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Salt Lake City is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yellowstone National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Salt Lake City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in town, but most backpackers overlook this destination or breeze through town quickly.

Is Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Salt Lake City is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Salt Lake City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a surprisingly good public transit system that includes light rail, buses, and commuter trains, but if you want to get out of town you'll need to have a car.

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 Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Salt Lake City
Yellowstone National Park

Salt Lake City is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Salt Lake City is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are walkable, like Temple Square, most visitors prefer to have a car.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable 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 Salt Lake City Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Salt Lake City?

How long in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Salt Lake City, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City.


  • How many days in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Salt Lake City 2-3 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the religious city of Salt Lake City. 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.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Salt Lake City. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Salt Lake City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Salt Lake City is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Salt Lake City?

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

  • Salt Lake City Prices
    USA Prices
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Salt Lake City $282
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Salt Lake City is $282, 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 Salt Lake City and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Salt Lake City $119
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Salt Lake City $238
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Salt Lake City and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City


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: Salt Lake City Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Salt Lake City $45
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salt Lake City

Also for Salt Lake City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Salt Lake City Airport SLC: $36
  • Private Transfer from SLC to Park City UT : $286
  • Private Transfer from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Park City hotel or address: $286
  • Private Transfer from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City : $132
  • Private Transfer: Hotels to SLC Airport: $45
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Salt Lake City to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Salt Lake City or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Salt Lake 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
    Salt Lake City $86
    Yellowstone National Park $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Salt Lake City $28
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Salt Lake City

For Salt Lake City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Utah Jazz Basketball Game Ticket: $6.55
  • Utah Jazz Basketball Game Ticket at Delta Center: $8.02
  • Mormon History Salt Lake Self-Guided Audio app Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Salt Lake City by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Salt Lake City Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Walking Tour in Salt Lake City: $20
  • Shadows of Old Salt Lake Walking Tour: $23
  • Salt Lake Ghost Tour: Salt, Spooks, & Shadows: $24
  • Salt Lake City Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Salt Lake City Haunted Old Town Tour: $25
  • Salt Lake City Historical Walking Tour of the City of Zion : $32
  • The City of Zion Walking Tour: $32

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
    Salt Lake City $17
    Yellowstone National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Salt Lake City

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Salt Lake City:

  • Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour: $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Salt Lake City and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City Expensive? and Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.


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