A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Durham vs. Park City Utah for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Durham or Park City Utah?

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 Durham and Park City Utah can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a diverse, student-filled, and sports oriented city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a high energy, adventurous, and active town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Durham and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Durham or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Park City Utah. Although Durham and Park City Utah are popular destinations, Park City Utah has more sights and attractions for tourists. Park City Utah is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Durham attracts visitors for its museums. Park City Utah is more touristy than Durham and is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Deer Valley Resort. Durham is famous for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for snow skiing. However, Durham is not a skiing destination.

Park City Utah is among the world's best ski destinations. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

Durham is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Durham or Park City Utah?

Durham
Park City Utah

Durham is great for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Durham. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is the Food Better in Durham or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Park City Utah is an experience not to be missed. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Durham. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Park City Utah has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.


Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Durham is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Park City Utah. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Durham is not a resort destination.

Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Durham is not a hiking destination.

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Park City Utah?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Durham. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.


Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Park City Utah is one of the most popular family destinations. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Park City Utah has plenty to offer. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is very good for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Park City Utah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.


Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Students?

Durham
Park City Utah

Durham is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Park City Utah is not popular with students.

Many students visit Durham. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Park City Utah is not popular with students.

Is Durham or Park City Utah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Durham is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Park City Utah can get you to most places easily. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is mostly limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

Is Durham or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Durham
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Durham is not a good city for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Park City Utah on foot. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

Durham is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.


For even more information, also check out Is Durham Worth Visiting? and Is Park City Utah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Durham?

How long in Durham or Park City Utah?

In either Durham or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Park City Utah than Durham because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Durham, and 3-5 days is enough time in Park City Utah.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah than Durham 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Durham or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Durham 1-3 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Durham or Park City Utah?

In Durham, you'll find museums and nightlife. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Park City Utah. 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 Durham or Park City Utah?

Durham is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Park City Utah is a great place to explore. 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 Durham or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Durham. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Park City Utah. 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 Durham or Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Durham. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous destination of Park City Utah. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Durham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Durham is $162, while the average daily cost in Park City Utah is $320. 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 Durham and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Durham $92
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Durham $184
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Durham and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Durham or Park City Utah? 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 Durham


Hotels in Park City Utah


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: Durham Hotel Prices and Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Durham $33
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33
  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $90
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Durham or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Durham 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
    Durham $44
    Park City Utah $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Durham $26
    Park City Utah $68

Tours and Activities in Durham

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

  • Downtown Durham Historian-Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Durham African American History Tour: $16
  • Durham NC: Art Walking Tour: $20
  • True Crime Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Durham $34
    Park City Utah $46


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Durham and Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah is more expensive. And not only is Durham much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Durham would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Durham 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 Park City Utah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Park City Utah than you might in Durham.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Durham Expensive? and Is Park City Utah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Durham or Park City Utah?

Durham has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Park City Utah. When comparing the sizes of Durham and Park City Utah, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.