A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Dallas vs. Yellowstone National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Dallas or Yellowstone 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 Dallas and Yellowstone National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dallas

Dallas is a chic, active, and upscale city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a immense, unique, and stunning national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Dallas and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • 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
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dallas. Although Dallas and Yellowstone National Park are both popular with visitors, Dallas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dallas is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yellowstone National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Dallas and is known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Dallas is popular for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture. It is also home to the Sixth Floor Museum.

How is Dallas different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Dallas is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Dallas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Dallas is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Dallas is an experience not to be missed. There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Dallas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Dallas is well known for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Dallas is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Dallas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Dallas is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Yellowstone National Park. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Dallas is not a resort destination.


Is Dallas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Dallas is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Dallas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Dallas is well known for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Dallas. You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea markets.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dallas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Dallas or Yellowstone National Park.

Dallas is a very kid-friendly city. The city is filled with families, and you'll find many kid-friendly activities around town. For some outdoor time you can visit the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden or the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas Zoo is a favorite for many kids and there are also a number of kid-friendly museums around town such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas World Aquarium.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.


Is Dallas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Both Dallas and Yellowstone National Park are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Dallas is a very popular place to visit for couples. Head to the observation deck at Reunion Tower for spectacular views of the night skyline. The city also has many great comedy clubs and performing arts venues as well as fine dining restaurants that make for a great date night.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Is Dallas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Dallas is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Yellowstone National Park. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

Dallas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there are a couple of hostels around town, this isn't a popular destination for the backpacker crowd.

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

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Dallas is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Dallas, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While it's still very much a car-centered city, the public transportation system, DART, is one of the fastest growing in the country. It includes both light rail and bus service.

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.


Is Dallas or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Dallas
Yellowstone National Park

Dallas is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Dallas is generally not very walkable. The city is not particularly walkable, but there are several more walkable areas such as Ellum and Uptown.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable city. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Dallas?

How long in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Dallas and Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park than in Dallas. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dallas, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dallas than Yellowstone 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 Dallas.


  • How many days in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dallas 2-4 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active city of Dallas. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yellowstone National Park. 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 Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Dallas. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Dallas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Dallas is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Yellowstone National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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, Yellowstone National Park or Dallas?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dallas is $141, while the average daily cost in Yellowstone National Park is $147. 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 Dallas and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dallas $84
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dallas $168
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Dallas and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Dallas or Yellowstone 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 Dallas


Hotels in Yellowstone 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: Dallas Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dallas $28
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dallas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dallas:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Dallas Airport DAL to Dowtown Dallas by Luxury Vehicle: $83
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dallas Airport DAL to Fort Worth by Luxury Vehicle: $135
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Dallas Airport DFW to Dallas in Business Car: $105
  • Dallas Airport (DAL) to Dallas - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW): Transfer to Dallas: $203
  • Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) to Dallas - Arrival Private Transfer: $41
  • Dallas to Dallas Airport (DFW) - Departure Private Transfer: $58
  • Dallas to Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Departure Private Transfer Dowtown Dallas to Dallas Airport DAL Luxury Vehicle: $83
  • Departure Private Transfer: Dallas to Dallas Airport DFW in Luxury SUV: $126
  • Plano/Allen to Dallas Airport (DFW) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Departure Transfer to Dallas Fort Worth Airport DFW: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Dallas or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Dallas 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
    Dallas $35
    Yellowstone National Park $46
Typical Food Prices in Dallas

Some typical examples of dining costs in Dallas are as follows:


  • Cowboys Stadium Tour (for 2)
    $55
  • Whataburger Lunch (family of 4)
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dallas

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dallas.

  • West Village Happy Hour Food Tour: $39
  • Dallas Secret Food Tour: $97
  • Secret Food Tour of Dallas with Private Tour Option: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dallas $13
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Dallas

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dallas are as follows:

  • Historic Downtown Audio Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Historic Dallas Downtown Solo Self Guided Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Dallas in Wonderland: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Must-See Landmarks & Attractions Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • JFK Assassination Walking Tour (Self-Guided): $16
  • The Assassination of John F. Kennedy Experience: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Denton by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Plano by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • John F. Kennedy Trolley Tour in Dallas: $22
  • Dallas' Reunion Tower GeO-Deck Observation Ticket: $25
  • Historic West End Ghost Walking Tour: $26

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Yellowstone Old Faithful Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Yellowstone National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone Lake & Hot Springs / 3 Hour Morning or Twilight Tour : $150
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dallas $12
    Yellowstone National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Dallas

Also in Dallas, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Deep Ellum and Downtown Dallas: $55
  • Dallas Party Bike Pub Crawl in Deep Ellum: $55


When comparing the travel costs between Dallas and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Yellowstone 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 Dallas Expensive? and Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.