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

Should you visit Detroit or Yellowstone National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Yellowstone National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a vast, world-famous, and popular national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Detroit and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
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
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit. Although Detroit and Yellowstone National Park are both popular with visitors, Detroit has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Detroit is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, 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 Detroit and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

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

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

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Detroit is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Detroit is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

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 Detroit or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

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

Detroit is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Detroit or Yellowstone National Park Better for Music?

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Detroit is very popular for its music scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a live music destination.

In Detroit you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Yellowstone National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Detroit or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Detroit or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yellowstone National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Yellowstone National Park?

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Detroit is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Detroit or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

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

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Detroit or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

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

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yellowstone National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.


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

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Detroit is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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 Detroit or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Detroit
Yellowstone National Park

Detroit is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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 Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Detroit or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Detroit 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 Detroit. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Detroit or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Detroit 1-3 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Detroit or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the overlooked city of Detroit. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Detroit or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Detroit. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the live music. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Detroit or Yellowstone National Park?

Detroit 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Detroit or Yellowstone National Park?

Detroit is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Detroit?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $133, 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 Detroit and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Detroit 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 Detroit


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: Detroit Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142

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

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Detroit 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
    Detroit $44
    Yellowstone National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Detroit $21
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Self Guided "Detroit's Spirit and History" Solo Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $11
  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted 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:

  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • 5-Day Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Tour: $3,349
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $200
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $269
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Yellowstone National Park $19


When comparing the travel costs between Detroit 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 Detroit Expensive? and Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.


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