A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yellowstone National Park vs. Toronto for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Yellowstone National Park or Toronto?

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

Should I visit Yellowstone National Park or Toronto? 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.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a popular, immense, and unique national park. Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant, cultural, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Toronto travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park and Toronto: Pros and Cons

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
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Toronto than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Toronto is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Toronto and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Toronto is well known for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. Also, Toronto is famous for the CN Tower.

How is Yellowstone National Park different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

Toronto is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Toronto on the map. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

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

Dining out in Toronto is an experience not to be missed. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

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 Yellowstone National Park or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

Toronto is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Toronto is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

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 Yellowstone National Park or Toronto Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

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

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Toronto is not a resort destination.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Around Yellowstone National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yellowstone National Park or Toronto?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

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

Toronto is a world class destination for shoppers. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Toronto More Beautiful?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Toronto Better for Families?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Yellowstone National Park or Toronto.

Yellowstone National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Toronto is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Toronto Better for Couples?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

With fun activities for couples, both Yellowstone National Park and Toronto make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Yellowstone National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Toronto is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

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

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Toronto is a great national park to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Toronto Better for Students?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

Toronto is very popular for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Toronto. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

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

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

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

Toronto has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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 Yellowstone National Park or Toronto a more walkable city?

Yellowstone National Park
Toronto

Toronto is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Toronto is a very walkable destination. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable national park. 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 Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Yellowstone National Park or Toronto?

Both Yellowstone National Park and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Toronto has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Toronto than Yellowstone National Park. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Yellowstone National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Yellowstone National Park or Toronto? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7 
    Toronto 3-7

One day in Yellowstone National Park or Toronto?

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Toronto is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. 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.

A weekend in Yellowstone National Park or Toronto?

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Toronto is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Yellowstone National Park or Toronto?

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto 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.


A week in Yellowstone National Park or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Toronto is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Toronto or Yellowstone National Park?

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

  • Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Toronto Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Yellowstone National Park $181
    Toronto $249

The average daily cost (per person) in Yellowstone National Park is $181, while the average daily cost in Toronto is $249. 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 Yellowstone National Park and Toronto in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yellowstone National Park $74
    Toronto $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yellowstone National Park $148
    Toronto $172
Compare Hotels in Yellowstone National Park and Toronto

Looking for a hotel in Yellowstone National Park or Toronto? 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 Yellowstone National Park


Hotels in Toronto


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: Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices and Toronto Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yellowstone National Park $37
    Toronto $32

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Toronto

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Toronto are as follows:


  • Airport Shuttle
    $26
  • Train: 2 Day Passes
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toronto

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

  • Private Transfer:- Toronto Pearson Airport to Waterloo Black Car Service: $92
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Pearson Airport YYZ to Toronto in Luxury Van: $173
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Toronto Airport YYZ to Niagara Falls in Luxury SUV: $215
  • Arrival Transfer: Pearson Airport YYZ to Toronto in Sedan Car: $167
  • Departure Private Transfer Toronto City to Toronto Airport YYZ by SUV or Minibus: $72
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toronto to Pearson Airport YYZ in Luxury Van: $147
  • Low Cost :- Private Transfer Toronto Downtown to Niagara Falls Ont: $262
  • Low cost Transfer: Toronto Downtown to Niagara Falls (Lake): $657
  • Niagara Falls private transfers : $277
  • Niagara Falls: Private Transfer to/from Toronto Airport: $700
  • Private Arrival Transfer-Pearson Airport (YYZ) to Niagara Falls: $229
  • Private Departure Transfer to Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ): $88

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

Prices for flights to both Toronto and Yellowstone National Park 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
    Yellowstone National Park $80
    Toronto $112

Typical Food Prices in Toronto

For Toronto, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch at St. Lawrence Market for Two
    $23
  • Dinner at Mill Street Brewery (for 2)
    $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toronto

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

  • Premium Harbor Cruise with Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner: $46
  • Great White North Food Tour: $54
  • Great White North Toronto Food Tour: $55
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery: $61
  • Toronto Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Toronto Premier Dinner Cruise on Odyssey in Toronto Harbour: $66
  • St Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $71
  • Kensington Market 'Taste the World' Food Tour: $72
  • Must-Do Toronto Food Tour by Toronto's First Food Tour Company: $73
  • St Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $78
  • French Bistro Cooking Class in Toronto (Includes 3-Course Meal): $80
  • Niagara Falls Evening Tour with Boat, Journey, Dinner & Fireworks: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yellowstone National Park $34
    Toronto $31

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Toronto

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Toronto's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Gallery of Ontario for Two
    $15
  • CN Tower at night for Two
    $36
  • Harbour Dinner Cruise
    $26
  • Bata Shoe Museum (2)
    $7.26

Tours and Activities in Toronto

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

  • Explore Niagara Falls with bus ticket from/to Toronto: $3.58
  • Old Town Toronto Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based : $4.00
  • City Highlights Walking Tour | 3-Hour: $4.02
  • Old Town Toronto History Walking Tour: $4.44
  • Graffiti in Toronto Walking Tour: $4.44
  • Toronto Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.74
  • Discover Toronto's Waterfront with a Smartphone Trivia Tour!: $8.12
  • Historical Ghost Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Hamilton: $8.99
  • Toronto Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Toronto by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Bata Shoe Museum Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Toronto Audio Tour:Maple Delights in Toronto Audio Tour Adventure: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yellowstone National Park $19
    Toronto $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Toronto

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toronto:

  • Distillery District Historic Walking Tour: $20
  • Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting: $25
  • Illuminarium Toronto in the Distillery District: $26
  • Distillery & Old Town Private Walking Tour: $28
  • Short Distillery District Segway Tour: $35
  • 30-Minute Distillery District Segway Tour: $36
  • Toronto Distillery & Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide: $42
  • Toronto Distillery District Self-Guided Walking Tour: $43
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $44
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $44
  • Distillery District Breakfast Walking Tour: $53
  • Distillery District Breakfast Tour: $54


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