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

Should you visit Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tampa

Tampa is a laid-back, easy-going, and low-key city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. Bryce Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Tampa and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tampa. Although Tampa and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Tampa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tampa is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Tampa is popular for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also home to Busch Gardens.

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

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

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Bryce Canyon National Park. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tampa is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Tampa has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

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 Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tampa is adequate for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

Tampa doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

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 Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.


Is Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tampa is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tampa is a great city for the beach. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Tampa is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

People visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.


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

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

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

Bryce Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is 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.


Is Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Bryce Canyon National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.


Is Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Tampa
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tampa and Bryce Canyon National Park are decent when it comes to walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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 Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Tampa 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 Tampa because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Tampa 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.


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

One day in Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Tampa, many people enjoy the food that this low-key destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Bryce Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this spectacular destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Tampa, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bryce Canyon National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 fun place to experience. In Bryce Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tampa or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the city of Tampa. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


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

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

  • Tampa Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tampa $218
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $218, 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 Tampa and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $168
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $168
  • Private transfer from Tampa airport To Zephyrhills, FL: $155
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport TPA to Lakeland/Winter Haven: $144
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg Accommodation: $144
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $120
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $120
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach- Arrival Private Transfer: $119
  • Private transfer Tampa airport To Ruskin, FL: $112
  • Private One-way Transfer from Tampa Airport To Tampa: $100
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Land O' Lakes Florida: $100
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Luxury SUV: $94

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

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Tampa 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
    Tampa $92
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Ybor City Food Tour with 5 Local Delicacies Tastings: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $79
  • 3 hour E.G. Simmons Park Mangrove Tunnel Tour: $64
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $39
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $63
  • Clear Kayaking Glow Tour in Tampa Riverwalk: $74
  • Downtown Tampa Private Evening Cruise for up to 12ppl: $510
  • Escape to Paradise: Private Island Boat Adventure in Tampa: $630
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35
  • Ghost Investigation Tours with Interactive Paranormal Experience: $35

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $90
  • 8 Hours Cosmic Ashtray Experience in Escalante: $299
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $115
  • Bryce Canyon National Park 15-Minute Helicopter Tour: $165
  • Bryce Canyon National Park 30-Minute Helicopter Tour: $299
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Bryce Canyon Photography Tours: $289
  • Bryce Canyon Private Tour: $149
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Naples Bar Crawl Experience: $15
  • Tampa Terrors: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Tampa Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Historic Ybor: $40
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on New Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Downtown 3-Hour Food and Wine Tour: $145
  • Tampa's Top Dive Bar Tour Experience by Golf Cart: $275


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

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