A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Yellowstone National Park for Families, Backpackers, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Sarasota or Yellowstone 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 Sarasota and Yellowstone 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a entertaining, underrated, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Sarasota travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a immense, unique, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come to Yellowstone National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Sarasota and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 nightlife


Is there more to do in Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yellowstone National Park. Although Sarasota and Yellowstone National Park are both popular with visitors, Yellowstone National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Sarasota and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. It is also home to Old Faithful. Sarasota is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities.

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

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

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

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

Sarasota offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

Sarasota 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 Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

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 Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

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

Sarasota has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

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

There are plenty of resorts in Yellowstone National Park to choose from. 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.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.


Is Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

Sarasota is a popular place for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

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

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

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

Many visitors go to Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

Sarasota is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Sarasota is a very family-friendly destination. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Yellowstone National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as 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.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.


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

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yellowstone National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Sarasota is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are budget friendly places to stay, but there isn't a large backpacker or young crowd hanging around.

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

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

Sarasota is a 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 Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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 Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Sarasota
Yellowstone National Park

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

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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 Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sarasota 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 Sarasota.


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

One day in Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the entertaining city of Sarasota. 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.

The beautiful national park of Yellowstone 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 Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sarasota. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park?

Sarasota is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park?

Sarasota 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Sarasota?

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

  • Sarasota Prices
    USA Prices
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sarasota $350
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $350, 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 Sarasota and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota 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 Sarasota


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: Sarasota Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

Also for Sarasota, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sarasota Airport (SRQ) to Anna Maria island - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Sarasota Airport(SRQ) to Anna Maria island hotel-Arrival Transfer: $125
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Sarasota or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $238
    Yellowstone National Park $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Palmetto Ghost & History Tour by Silent Slayer Ghost Tours: $40
  • Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour: $55
  • Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour: $55
  • Siesta Key: Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboard Tour: $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure : $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
  • Siesta Key Guided Eco Tour: $59
  • Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour: $59
  • Glass Bottom Kayak Fish Feeding LED Night Tour: $59
  • Siesta Key Kayak Tour : $60
  • Sarasota Waterways Tour for All Ages: $60
  • Sharkey's Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Sarasota: $62

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
    Sarasota -
    Yellowstone National Park $19


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