A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Canyon National Park vs. Zion National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a striking, breathtaking, and stunning national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are both popular with visitors, Zion National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zion National Park is more popular for its museums, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Grand Canyon National Park is known for its resorts. Grand Canyon National Park is popular for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Zion National Park is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also home to Angels Landing.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

Zion National Park is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at decent restaurants in both Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park.

Grand Canyon National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Zion National Park is not a good area for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Zion National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

Grand Canyon National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Zion National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Zion National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

Zion National Park is not a good area for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park Better for Families?

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

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly destination. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Zion National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are both world-class destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Canyon National Park. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Zion National Park. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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

Zion National Park is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Zion National Park has some public transit options. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

Public transit is generally limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable national park. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Grand Canyon National Park?

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

Both Grand Canyon National Park and Zion 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 Zion National Park than in Grand Canyon National Park. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zion National Park than Grand 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 Zion National Park.

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the striking destination of Grand Canyon National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned national park of Grand Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer.

In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days 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.

In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This park offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Zion National Park?

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful park offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this park makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive? and Is Zion National Park Expensive?.