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

Should you visit Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Gainesville or Bryce Canyon 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.

Gainesville

Gainesville is a vibrant, high energy, and active city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a spectacular, other-worldly, and breathtaking park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Gainesville and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bryce Canyon National Park. Although Gainesville 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 Gainesville attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Gainesville and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. It is also well known for . Gainesville is famous for being the home of the University of Florida


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

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

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Gainesville is a great city for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Gainesville specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There's a surprising number of museums around town such as the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Also fascinating is the Historic Haile Homestead, the Butterfly Rainforest, and the city's planetarium.

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 Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Gainesville is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Gainesville has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Casual eateries are popular around town, particularly with the student population. There are grills, diners, and bistros that serve local dishes at affordable prices.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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 Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Gainesville is a great city for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Gainesville has something for everybody. The nightlife centers around the student population. The two main party areas are Midtown and Downtown. Midtown is between Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 18th Street and it's convenient for students who live on campus. The area has a great stretch of bars and clubs. The Downtown area has many of the city's top clubs, and it's popular with upperclassmen and students who live off campus.

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 Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a resort destination.


Is Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

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

Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

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

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Gainesville 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 Gainesville. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town such as malls, shopping centers, and retail outlets. Two popular areas are the Neighborhoods at Butler and Celebration Pointe.

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 Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Gainesville is a family-friendly city. You'll find outdoor activities, nature parks, and a couple of museums that will appeal to all ages. Highlights for families include A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, the Adventure Outpost, and Alfred A. Ring Park.


Is Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is notable for romance. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Gainesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wine tasting and fine dining or enjoying the city's many outdoor activities. Go on a picnic or explore one of the museums in Downtown Gainesville.

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

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is very popular for backpackers. However, Gainesville is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Gainesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many travelers, but there are some cheap motels where budget travelers can stay.

Is Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Gainesville is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Gainesville is very popular with students. As the location of the University of Florida, you'll find many students around town. This keeps the energy high with plenty of evening activities and affordable entertainment options.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.


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

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

Gainesville 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 Gainesville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system that's free to students and employees of the university.

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 Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Gainesville
Bryce Canyon National Park

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

Gainesville is a somewhat walkable place. Biking is actually a popular way to get around town and some areas are pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

How long in Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Gainesville 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 Gainesville because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Gainesville, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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


  • How many days in Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Gainesville 1-2 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking park of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Gainesville, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking park of Bryce Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Gainesville or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Gainesville. 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Bryce Canyon National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Gainesville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Gainesville is $221, 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 Gainesville and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gainesville $119
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gainesville $238
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Gainesville and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Gainesville 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 Gainesville


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gainesville $40
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Gainesville 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
    Gainesville $70
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33
Typical Food Prices in Gainesville

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


  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $17
  • Lunch at Chop Stix (for 2)
    $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Gainesville $44
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Manatee Tour for Two
    $98
  • Tour Guide Tip
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Gainesville

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

  • Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Natural History Ticket: $15
  • Private Snorkeling Tour in Florida Springs: $250
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Gainesville by Operation City Quest: $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.

  • The Beauty of Full-Day Audio Driving Private Tour: $7.19
  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Self-Driving Bundle Tour : $25
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $110
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Thunder Mt. 4 Hour Ride: $120
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gainesville $49
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


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


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