A Travel Price Comparison for Wyoming Grand Teton National Park vs. Yellowstone National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Resorts

Should you visit Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Should I visit Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-famous, popular, and immense national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful


Is there more to do in Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Also, Yellowstone National Park is famous for Old Faithful. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park offer a number of respectable restaurants to choose from.

Grand Teton National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Yellowstone National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Grand Teton National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park offer a relatively similar set of high quality luxury resort options.

Grand Teton National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

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.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park both have first-rate trails.

People visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Grand Teton National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park.

Grand Teton National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Yellowstone National Park is a very kid-friendly 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 Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for couples. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Grand Teton National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Yellowstone National Park is a great park if you're traveling as 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 Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

For backpackers, both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are first-rate places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

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.

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

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Neither Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

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


Is Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park

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

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable park. 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 Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

How long in Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Grand Teton National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Yellowstone National Park. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Grand Teton National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

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


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

One day in Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive park of Grand Teton National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning national park of Yellowstone National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Teton National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yellowstone National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Grand Teton National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Grand Teton National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Grand Teton National Park is $162, 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 Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grand Teton National Park $79
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grand Teton National Park $158
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park


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: Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grand Teton National Park $52
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105
  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park 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
    Grand Teton National Park $46
    Yellowstone National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grand Teton National Park $43
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

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
  • Self-guided tours with Audioguide West Coast Parks U.S.: $27
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grand Teton National Park $19
    Yellowstone National Park $19


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