A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Aspen vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Food, Hiking, Backpackers, and Resorts

Should you visit Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Aspen and Bryce Canyon National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Aspen

Aspen is a charming, quaint, and vibrant ski town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Aspen and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aspen. Although Aspen and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Aspen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aspen is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Aspen and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Aspen is popular for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. It is also home to The Maroon Bells.

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

Is Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Skiing?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is very popular for skiing. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.

Aspen is among the world's best ski destinations. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

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

Aspen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

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 Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is a great ski town for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Aspen has something for everybody. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

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 Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Music?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is a great ski town for its live music scene. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Aspen has a thriving music scene. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is a great ski town for its luxury resorts. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Aspen. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

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.

Is Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for its hiking experiences. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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

Many visitors go to Aspen for the hiking trails. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.


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

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is a great ski town for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Aspen is well-known for its shopping. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

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.

Is Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Christmas?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Bryce Canyon National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Aspen. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Bryce Canyon National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is a great ski town for visiting Christmas markets. However, Bryce Canyon National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Aspen is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Bryce Canyon National Park does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is known to be 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.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Aspen and Bryce Canyon National Park are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Aspen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great ski town if you're traveling as 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.

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

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.


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

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Aspen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

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

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

Aspen
Bryce Canyon National Park

Aspen is a great ski town for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Aspen is a very walkable ski town. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

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

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

How long in Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Aspen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Aspen than Bryce Canyon National Park. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Aspen, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aspen than Bryce Canyon 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 Aspen.


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

One day in Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This ski town 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 Aspen or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Aspen is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the other-worldly 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 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, Bryce Canyon National Park or Aspen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aspen is $293, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135. 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 Aspen and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aspen $170
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aspen $340
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Aspen and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Aspen 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 Aspen


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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aspen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aspen:

  • Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) - Private Transfer Arrival or Departure: $269
  • Aspen hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $218

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

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Aspen 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
    Aspen $85
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aspen $45
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Aspen

Here are a few actual costs in Aspen for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aspen Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Aspen's DarkSide Ghost Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Scenic Walking Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Past to Present Historic Tour: $40
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $40
  • Dark History Ghost-Themed Guided Walking Tour: $40
  • From Past to Present History Walking Tour: $40
  • Highlights of Aspen Tour: $40

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

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

  • The Beauty of Full-Day Audio Driving Private Tour: $7.19
  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Self-Driving Bundle Tour : $25
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $110
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Thunder Mt. 4 Hour Ride: $120
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aspen $20
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


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