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

Should you visit Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bryce Canyon National Park and Boise can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bryce Canyon National Park

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

Boise

Boise is a welcoming, authentic, and friendly city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bryce Canyon National Park and Boise: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bryce Canyon National Park. Although Bryce Canyon National Park and Boise are both popular with visitors, Bryce Canyon National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bryce Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Boise is known for its museums & sights, nightlife, and shopping. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Boise and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. It is also home to . Boise is popular for its many outdoor and recreational activities.


How is Bryce Canyon National Park different from Boise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Boise is very good for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Boise offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.

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.


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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Both Bryce Canyon National Park and Boise offer decent local cuisine and restaurants.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Bryce Canyon National Park. 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.

Boise may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. While Idaho has long been associated with the potato, the locals usually think of "finger steaks" when describing local food. These are deep-friend beef strips that are as good as they sound.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise Better for Nightlife?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Boise is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Boise has a few options to choose from. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise Better for Resorts?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

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

Boise is not a resort destination.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise Better for Hiking?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Boise 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.

Boise is not a hiking destination.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Boise is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boise. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise Better for Families?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Bryce Canyon National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Boise is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park. 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.

Boise doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. You'll find parks, playgrounds, and the Discovery Center which will help keep kids entertained.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise Better for Couples?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Bryce Canyon National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Boise 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.

Boise is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Date night activities include dining at a nice restaurants and seeing a show at the theater.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boise is lacking in options for backpackers.

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.

Boise is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Backpackers rarely make their way to this town.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

Bryce Canyon National Park and Boise both offer decent public transit to get you around.

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 generally limited in Boise. There are infrequent buses around town, but visitors usually have a car to get around town efficiently.


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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Boise

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

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not a very walkable park. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

Boise is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable neighborhoods but, in general, the town isn't very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Boise Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Boise because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bryce Canyon National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Boise.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Boise 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 Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5 
    Boise 1-2

One day in Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise?

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.

In Boise, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this authentic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise?

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.

In Boise, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. 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.


Five days in Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise?

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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Boise. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

A week in Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Boise. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135, while the average daily cost in Boise is $146. 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 Bryce Canyon National Park and Boise in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
    Boise $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
    Boise $150
Compare Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park and Boise

Looking for a hotel in Bryce Canyon National Park or Boise? 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 Bryce Canyon National Park


Hotels in Boise


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
    Boise $34

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

Prices for flights to both Boise and Bryce Canyon 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
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33
    Boise $45

Typical Food Prices in Boise

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


  • Hotel
    $59
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (for 4)
    $55

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

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: $80
  • 8 Hours Cosmic Ashtray Experience in Escalante: $249
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Audio Tour Guide: $15
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Bryce Canyon Photography Tours: $289
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures All Day Ride: $150
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $110

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boise

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


  • Edwards Boise Imax
    $27

Tours and Activities in Boise

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

  • A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour: $25
  • Boise River: Guided Rafting, Swimming, and Wildlife Tour: $68
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.27
  • Sights & Highlights Walking tour: $11
  • Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour near Boise, Idaho: $218
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge: $10

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78
    Boise $24


When comparing the travel costs between Bryce Canyon National Park and Boise, we can see that Boise is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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