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

Should you visit Marathon or Park City Utah?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Park City Utah, 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.

Marathon

Marathon is a quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a adventurous, active, and high energy town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Marathon and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Park City Utah than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Park City Utah is better known for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Marathon is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Park City Utah is more touristy than Marathon and is known for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Park City Utah is famous for Deer Valley Resort. Marathon is well known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

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

Is Marathon or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Marathon is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Park City Utah is among the best in the world. 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.

Marathon is not a skiing destination.


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

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is adequate for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Park City Utah specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Park City Utah. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Park City Utah is a world class party destination. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.


Is Marathon or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Park City Utah

With a similar set of options, great resorts can be found in both Marathon and Park City Utah.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

In Park City Utah, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Is Marathon or Park City Utah Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Marathon is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Park City Utah Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Marathon is great for the beach. However, Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Marathon for it's beautiful beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Park City Utah is not a beach destination.


Is Marathon or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Park City Utah for the hiking trails. 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Park City Utah?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Park City Utah is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.


Is Marathon or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Park City Utah has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Park City Utah is fairly effecient and thorough. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.


Is Marathon or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Marathon
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

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

How long in Marathon or Park City Utah?

In either Marathon or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than Park City Utah because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 3-5 days is enough time in Park City Utah.

Families should spend more time in Park City Utah than Marathon. 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 Marathon. 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Marathon or Park City Utah?

In Marathon, you'll find nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful town of Park City Utah offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Park City Utah?

Marathon is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Park City Utah is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Marathon or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Park City Utah is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Park City Utah, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Park City Utah?

In Marathon, you'll find nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Park City Utah is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Marathon?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $158, 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 Marathon and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Marathon 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 Marathon


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: Marathon Hotel Prices and Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    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:

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

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

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Marathon 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
    Marathon $51
    Park City Utah $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Park City Utah $68

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Park City Utah $46


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah is more expensive. And not only is Marathon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marathon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marathon 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 Marathon.

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


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Park City Utah?

Marathon has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Park City Utah. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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.