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

Should you visit Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park?

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 Olympic National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a other-worldly, breathtaking, and spectacular park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a pristine, stunning, and vast park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Bryce Canyon National Park and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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
  • Not as many resort options
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Olympic National Park than Bryce Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Olympic National Park is better known for its museums, food, and resorts, while Bryce Canyon National Park is more popular for its impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Olympic National Park and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Olympic National Park is well known for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. Also, Olympic National Park is famous for the Hoh Rain Forest.

How is Bryce Canyon National Park different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

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

Olympic National Park offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research 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 Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

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

Olympic National Park has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

Neither Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Bryce Canyon National Park There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

People don't go to Olympic National Park for the nightlife. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a great park 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 Olympic National Park. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

You'll find world-class hiking in both Bryce Canyon National Park and Olympic National Park.

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Known for its hiking, Olympic National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

If you're looking to go shopping, Bryce Canyon National Park and Olympic National Park both offer plenty of respectable spots.

If you're looking to go shopping, Bryce Canyon National Park has some nice offerings. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bryce Canyon National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

Olympic National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

Both Bryce Canyon National Park and Olympic National Park are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great park 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.

Olympic National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

For backpackers, both Bryce Canyon National Park and Olympic National Park are world-class places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Bryce Canyon National Park is extremely popular 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.

Olympic National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park and Olympic National Park both offer respectable 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 Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.


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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Olympic National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a moderate park for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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.

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

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

How long in Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park.


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

One day in Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park?

In Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find . Hikers are also drawn to this area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums and food that this stunning destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park?

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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park. It offers something for everyone.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the food and museums that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Olympic National Park?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums and food that this vast destination offers. 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 park offers something for everyone.

A week in Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic National Park?

You'll find around the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the beautiful park of Olympic National Park. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park is $124. 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 Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bryce Canyon National Park or Olympic 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 Bryce Canyon National Park


Hotels in Olympic 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: Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
    Olympic National Park $68

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

Prices for flights to both Olympic National Park 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
    Olympic National Park $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

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

  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • The Beauty of Full-Day Audio Driving Private 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
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $95
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $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

Tours and Activities in Olympic National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Olympic National Park are as follows:

  • Olympic Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Olympic Full Day Small Group Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78
    Olympic National Park $5.57


When comparing the travel costs between Bryce Canyon National Park and Olympic National Park, we can see that Bryce Canyon National Park 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 Olympic National Park Expensive?.


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