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

Should you visit Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland?

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 Portland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a spectacular, other-worldly, and breathtaking park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Portland

Portland is a quirky, eclectic, and tree-lined city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Bryce Canyon National Park and Portland: 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 popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Portland. Although Bryce Canyon National Park and Portland are popular destinations, Portland has more sights and attractions for tourists. Portland is very popular for its museums & sights, nightlife, music, shopping, and small town charm, while Bryce Canyon National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Portland and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Portland is famous for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. It is also well known for Washington Park.

How is Bryce Canyon National Park different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland 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 Portland?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Portland is adequate for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Portland specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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 Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Both Bryce Canyon National Park and Portland offer reasonable 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.

Portland may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Portland 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 Portland has a few options to choose from. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

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 Portland Better for Music?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Portland is very good for its live music scene. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland Better for Resorts?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland Better for Hiking?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Bryce Canyon National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Portland 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 Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

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 Portland Better for Families?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland Better for Couples?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Bryce Canyon National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Bryce Canyon National Park. 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.

Portland is a great park to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland Better for Students?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Portland is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

Portland 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 Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland a more walkable city?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Portland

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

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

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

How long in Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bryce Canyon National Park and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than in Portland. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bryce Canyon National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

Families should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Portland. 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.

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


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

One day in Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland?

The beautiful park of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Portland, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this tree-lined destination offers. 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.

A weekend in Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bryce Canyon National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Portland, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Portland?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bryce Canyon National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Portland?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Portland. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week 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, Portland 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 Portland is $180. 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 Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
    Portland $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
    Portland $194
Compare Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park and Portland

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


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 Portland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
    Portland $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

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

  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $194
  • Portland Airport to The Summit at Snoqualmie Arrival Transfer: $192
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $156
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $147
  • Private Transfer from Portland City Hotels to Astoria Cruise Port: $90
  • Private Transfer from Portland Airport (PDX) to Astoria Port: $90
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $78
  • Tigard hotel or address to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $78
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Arrival Private Transfer: $73
  • Lake Oswego to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $73
  • Private Departure Transfer to Portland Airport (PDX): $40

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

Prices for flights to both Portland 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
    Portland $43

Typical Food Prices in Portland

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


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

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

  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Portland Pizza Tour : $75
  • Secret Food Tour with Local Guide: $89
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $100
  • Downtown Food Tour: $102
  • The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour: $105
  • The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour: $105
  • 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River: $127
  • Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise: $127

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30
    Portland $24

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

Tours and Activities in Portland

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

  • 2-hour Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River: $102
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2-Hour Sunset River Cruise on the Willamette River: $281
  • 2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River: $86
  • 7 Wonders of the Gorge 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise: $90
  • Aerial adventure above Portland, Oregon: $189
  • Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland: $75
  • Afternoon Multnomah Falls and Gorge Waterfalls Tour: $85
  • Air Tour of Mount Hood and Columbia River Gorge: $289
  • Airplane Flight Tour over Portland, Oregon: $99
  • All Day Northern Oregon Wineries and Forest Bike Tour: $245
  • Awesome Mt. Hood & Columbia River Gorge Air Tour: $289

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78
    Portland $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Oregon Priority Wine Tasting Pass: $40
  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $40
  • Weird Bar Crawl with Fanatical Local: $59
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $65
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included): $135
  • Urban Wine Tasting Tour: $139
  • Portland Urban Wine Tasting Tour: $139
  • Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch: $210
  • From Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $210


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