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

Should you visit Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Columbus

Columbus is a down-to-earth, authentic, and friendly city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Columbus and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bryce Canyon National Park. Although Columbus and Bryce Canyon National Park are popular destinations, Bryce Canyon National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bryce Canyon National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Columbus attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. It is also well known for . Columbus is famous for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.


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

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

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

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

Columbus offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History 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 Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Foodies will find both Columbus and Bryce Canyon National Park both to be reasonable destinations.

Columbus offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

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.

Is Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Columbus 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 Columbus has a few options to choose from. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

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 Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

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

Columbus is not a resort destination.


Is Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

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

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Columbus 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 Columbus. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

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 Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park.

Columbus is a very family-friendly destination. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very kid-friendly city. 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.


Is Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options 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.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

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

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options 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.

Columbus is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there is a hostel in town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Columbus and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

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 Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Columbus
Bryce Canyon National Park

Columbus is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable place. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have 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 Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Columbus because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Columbus, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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

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

One day in Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

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.

A weekend in Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Columbus, 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.

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.


Five days in Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

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.

A week in Columbus or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Columbus. 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.

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.


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, Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbus?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Columbus is $158, 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 Columbus and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Columbus $72
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Columbus $144
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Columbus and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Columbus 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 Columbus


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Columbus $50
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Columbus

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

  • Columbus Ohio (CMH) Airport Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: $180
  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Columbus to Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Arrival Private Transfer: $65

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

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Columbus 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
    Columbus $49
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Columbus $46
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Columbus

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

  • Columbus Scavenger Hunt Adventure : $21
  • 1-Hour Themed Escape Room Adventure & Narrative: $41
  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Columbus with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Ticket: $28
  • Trolley Pub Holiday Lights Tour in Columbus: $45
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Columbus by Crazy Dash: $10

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: $299
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Bryce Canyon Photography Tours: $289
  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • Grand Staircase Full-Day Private Tour: $299
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

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


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


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