A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Los Angeles vs. Zion National Park for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a diverse, multicultural, and sprawling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and breathtaking park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Los Angeles and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Zion National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Zion National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Zion National Park is more popular for its impressive beauty. Los Angeles is well known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. Zion National Park is well known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or Zion National Park?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Los Angeles that are not to be missed. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is well known for theatre. However, Zion National Park is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Zion National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Los Angeles or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Los Angeles is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Los Angeles is a world class party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Music?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Zion National Park is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is a world class music destination. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Zion National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is well known for its resorts. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

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 Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Zion National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Zion National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Los Angeles and Zion National Park, and they are world-class.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

People visit Zion National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Zion National Park?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Los Angeles is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

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

Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Zion National Park is a great city 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 Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Zion National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park Better for Students?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for students. However, Zion National Park is not popular with students.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Zion National Park is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Los Angeles and Zion National Park.

Los Angeles has some public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Zion National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Zion National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Zion 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Zion National Park?

Los Angeles is a sprawling big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking park of Zion 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 Los Angeles or Zion National Park?

Los Angeles is a popular place to visit. Los Angeles is a glamourous city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Zion National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Los Angeles or Zion National Park?

Los Angeles is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned park of Zion 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 Los Angeles or Zion National Park?

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Zion National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this park.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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