A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Yellowstone National Park for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Should I visit Nags Head 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.

Nags Head

Other popular activities here include food.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique, stunning, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Nags Head and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yellowstone National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head is more popular for its food. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Also, Yellowstone National Park is famous for Old Faithful. Nags Head is well known for

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

Is the Food Better in Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nags Head
Yellowstone National Park

Nags Head is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Nags Head area. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Nags Head
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Yellowstone National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Is Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

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

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Nags Head
Yellowstone National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Yellowstone National Park is a very kid-friendly . 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 Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Yellowstone National Park is a great national 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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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

Nags Head
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is mediocre for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

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

Nags Head does not have public transit.


Is Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is mediocre for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable national park. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Nags Head and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Yellowstone National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Yellowstone National Park than Nags Head. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than Nags Head 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 Yellowstone National Park.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the of Nags Head. 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.

You'll find around the national park of Yellowstone National Park. People often spend their time 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Nags Head. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find around the immense destination of Yellowstone National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park?

Nags Head is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this makes for a great vacation. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the unique national park of Yellowstone National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

A week in Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park?

Nags Head is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yellowstone National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Nags Head?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $149, 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 Nags Head and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head 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 Nags Head


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $41
    Yellowstone National Park $46

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes: Self-Guided Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59

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
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Yellowstone National Park $19


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