A Travel Price Comparison for Utah Moab vs. Park City Utah for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Moab or Park City Utah?

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

Should I visit Moab or Park City Utah? 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.

Moab

Moab is a scenic, adventurous, and active town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and hiking.

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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Moab and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Moab than Park City Utah, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Moab is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Park City Utah is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Moab is well known for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. Also, Moab is famous for Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Park City Utah is well known for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding.

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

Is Moab or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Moab
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is very popular for skiing. However, Moab is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Park City Utah should be on your list. 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.

Moab is not a skiing destination.


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

Moab
Park City Utah

Spend time exploring the respectable sights and museums in either Moab or Park City Utah.

While most people don't head to Moab specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

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

Moab
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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 Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is Moab or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Moab
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is very popular for nightlife. However, Moab is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Park City Utah is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Most people don't head to Moab specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.


Is Moab or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Moab
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for its luxury resorts. However, Moab is not a resort destination.

Park City Utah is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Moab is not a resort destination.

Is Moab or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Moab
Park City Utah

Moab is an amazing town to visit for hiking. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Moab is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Moab or Park City Utah?

Moab
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for shopping. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Moab offers some nice shopping areas. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.


Is Moab or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Moab
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Park City Utah is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Moab is a very kid-friendly town. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

Is Moab or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Moab
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is very popular for romance. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Park City Utah makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Moab is a very popular place to visit for couples. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.

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

Moab
Park City Utah

Moab is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Moab. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.


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

Moab
Park City Utah

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

Visitors to Park City Utah can move around easily with public transportation. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

Is Moab or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Moab
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is very popular for its walkability. However, Moab 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.

Moab is generally not very walkable. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.

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

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

How long in Moab or Park City Utah?

In either Moab or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Park City Utah has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Park City Utah than Moab. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Moab, and 3-5 days is enough time in Park City Utah.

Families should spend more time in Park City Utah than Moab. 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 Moab. 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 Moab 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 Moab or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Moab 2-5 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Moab or Park City Utah?

In Moab, you'll find shopping and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Park City Utah. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Moab or Park City Utah?

Moab is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Park City Utah is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Moab or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Moab. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the high energy destination of Park City Utah. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Moab or Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Moab. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week 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.

The active town of Park City Utah offers skiing and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Moab?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Moab is $388, 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 Moab and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Moab $336
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Moab $672
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Moab and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Moab 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 Moab


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: Moab Hotel Prices and Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Moab $17
    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 Moab or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Moab 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
    Moab $37
    Park City Utah $65
Typical Food Prices in Moab

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Moab:


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

For Moab, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $99
  • Colorado River Sunset Boat Tour with Optional Dinner: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Moab $3.13
    Park City Utah $68
Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moab.

  • 2 Hours Guided UTV Tour in Moab Utah: $129
  • 25+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • 3-Hours Sunset Arches National Park Pavement Sights Tour: $191
  • Afternoon Arches National Park 4x4 Tour: $185
  • Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour: $185
  • Afternoon Half Day Moab Jeep Tour: $152
  • Arches & Canyonlands: Two-Day Private Tour & Hike: $2,395
  • Arches Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Arches National Park 4x4 Adventure from Moab: $197
  • Arches National Park Airplane Tour: $189
  • Arches National Park Back Country Adventure from Moab: $142
  • Arches National Park Backcountry Tour: $252

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
    Moab $66
    Park City Utah $46


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

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


Which is Bigger, Moab or Park City Utah?

Park City Utah has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Moab 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.