A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Avon vs. Zion National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Avon or Zion 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 Avon and Zion 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.

Avon

Avon is a outdoorsy, scenic, and active town. It's also known for food, hiking, and skiing.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Avon and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Avon or Zion National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Avon and Zion National Park are both popular with visitors, Zion National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zion National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Avon is known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Zion National Park is more touristy than Avon and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also home to Angels Landing. Avon is popular for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort.

How is Avon different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Avon or Zion National Park Better for Skiing?

Avon
Zion National Park

Avon is well known for winter skiing. However, Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.

Avon is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Avon or Zion National Park?

Avon
Zion National Park

Both Avon and Zion National Park have decent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

Is the Food Better in Avon or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avon
Zion National Park

Avon is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Avon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Avon or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Avon
Zion National Park

Avon is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Avon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.


Is Avon or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Avon
Zion National Park

Avon is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

Avon has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Zion National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Is Avon or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Avon
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Zion National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Avon is a good destination for hiking. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Is the Shopping Better in Avon or Zion National Park?

Avon
Zion National Park

Avon is a town with a few options for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Avon is a good destination for shopping. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.


Is Avon or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Avon
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Avon is a family-friendly town. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.

Is Avon or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Avon
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is notable for romance. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Zion National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.

Is Avon or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Avon
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Avon is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zion National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

Avon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers prefer to stay closer to the ski facilities.


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

Avon
Zion National Park

Both Avon and Zion National Park offer good public transit options.

Avon has a few public transit options. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

Zion National Park has some public transit options. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

Is Avon or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Avon
Zion National Park

Avon is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Avon is somewhat walkable. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Avon?

How long in Avon or Zion National Park?

Both Avon and Zion 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 Zion National Park than in Avon. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Avon, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

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


  • How many days in Avon or Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Avon 2-4 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Avon or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active destination of Avon. This town offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Zion National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Avon or Zion National Park?

Avon is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the active town of Avon. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Avon has to offer.

Zion National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Avon or Zion National Park?

Many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting Avon. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Zion National Park. This park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Avon or Zion National Park?

Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned park of Zion National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Zion National Park or Avon?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Avon is $277, while the average daily cost in Zion National Park is $119. 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 Avon and Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Avon $177
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Avon $354
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Avon and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Avon or Zion 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 Avon


Hotels in Zion 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: Avon Hotel Prices and Zion National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Avon $41
    Zion National Park $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Avon or Zion National Park?

Prices for flights to both Zion National Park and Avon 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
    Avon $67
    Zion National Park $37

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Avon $48
    Zion National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

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

  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $19
  • East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour: $49
  • Campfire S'mores and Stars Tour in Kanab: $65
  • Zion Sunset Jeep Tour: $69
  • Virgin: Zion National Park Off-Road Vehicle Tour & Hike: $89
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $98
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon UTV and Hiking Adventure: $99
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $100
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon Jeep Tour: $104
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $109
  • UTV Dune Cruise and Surf at Coral Pink Sand Dunes: $114
  • Via Ferrata / Rappel Adventure in East Zion: $119

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Avon $38
    Zion National Park $8.28


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

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