A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. Yosemite National Park for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Nantucket and Yosemite National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Yosemite National Park

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

Nantucket and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Yosemite National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantucket is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Yosemite National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Nantucket and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Nantucket is well known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Nantucket different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yosemite National Park and Nantucket. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nantucket. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nantucket or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

For foodies, Nantucket is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Nantucket and Yosemite National Park.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.


Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket is a well-known place for the beach. However, Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Nantucket is considered a top beach destination. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is renowned for hiking. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.


Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Yosemite National Park.

Nantucket is a very family-friendly destination. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Yosemite National Park is a very kid-friendly island. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Yosemite National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for romance.

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.


Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Yosemite National Park. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket and Yosemite National Park both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Nantucket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Yosemite National Park has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Is Nantucket or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Yosemite National Park

Nantucket is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Nantucket is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable island. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Nantucket Worth Visiting? and Is Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

Both Nantucket and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than in Nantucket. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantucket than Yosemite 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 Nantucket.


  • How many days in Nantucket or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantucket 2-4 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the national park of Yosemite 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 Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Yosemite 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 Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find around the breathtaking national park of Yosemite 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 Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

Nantucket is a fun place to experience. Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 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, Yosemite National Park or Nantucket?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $350, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $129. 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 Nantucket and Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket or Yosemite 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 Nantucket


Hotels in Yosemite 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: Nantucket Hotel Prices and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Yosemite National Park $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantucket or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park and Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $81
    Yosemite National Park $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    Yosemite National Park $19

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Family Fun Private Half Day Fly Fishing Adventure: $215
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Private Guided Hiking Tour in Yosemite: $293
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Waterfalls of Yosemite: Customizable Private Tour: $495
  • Yosemite Full Day Small Group High Country / Mariposa Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $11
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Yosemite National Park $11


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

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