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

Should you visit Nantucket or Zion 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 Zion National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Nantucket and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Zion National Park are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Zion National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Zion National Park is more touristy than Nantucket and is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Nantucket 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 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 Zion National Park?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Nantucket 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, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

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 Nantucket or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Nantucket has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

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

Is Nantucket or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

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

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

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 Nantucket or Zion National Park Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Nantucket is well known for its beaches. However, Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. 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.

Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Nantucket is well known for its historic old town. However, Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. 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.

Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Zion 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 Zion National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

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 Zion National Park?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Nantucket is well known for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Nantucket is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

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

Is Nantucket or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Zion 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.

Zion National Park is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Nantucket or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

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

Nantucket has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Zion National Park is a great island 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 Nantucket or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

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

Many backpackers frequent Zion National Park. 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.

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

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Nantucket and Zion National Park both offer good 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.

Zion National Park has a few public transit options. 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 Nantucket or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Zion National Park

Nantucket is well known for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

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


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

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

How long in Nantucket or Zion National Park?

Both Nantucket and Zion 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 Zion 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 Zion National Park.

Families should spend more time in Nantucket than Zion 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 Zion 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 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 Nantucket.


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

One day in Nantucket or Zion National Park?

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This island offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the food. 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.

You'll find around the park of Zion National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Zion National Park?

Nantucket is a popular place to visit. Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most people visit for the food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantucket has to offer.

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Zion 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 park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or Zion National Park?

Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the food. Five days 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.

You'll find around the breathtaking park of Zion National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.


A week in Nantucket or Zion National Park?

Nantucket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Zion National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zion 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, Zion 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 Zion National Park is $119. 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 Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket or Zion 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 Zion 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 Zion National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Zion National Park $30

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

Prices for flights to both Zion 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
    Zion National Park $37

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    Zion National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Zion National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Private Sunset Guided Tour to Great Chamber by Four-Wheel Drive: $125
  • Slot Canyon Tour & Sandboarding UTV Adventure: $128
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $100
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $98
  • Campfire S'mores and Stars Tour in Kanab: $65
  • East Zion 2 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $174
  • East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour: $169
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $109
  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $19
  • East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour: $49
  • Great Chamber/Peekaboo Slot Canyon UTV Tour 4hrs: $169

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Zion National Park $8.28


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nantucket and Zion National Park, we can see that Nantucket 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 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 Zion 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 Zion National Park Expensive?.