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

Should you visit New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Should I visit New Bern 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.

New Bern

New Bern is a charming, laid back, and quaint town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a vast, world-famous, and popular national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

New Bern and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park than New Bern, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yellowstone National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while New Bern is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than New Bern and is known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Also, Yellowstone National Park is famous for Old Faithful. New Bern is well known for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

New Bern is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone 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 New Bern. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in New Bern or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

New Bern 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 New Bern area. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

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 New Bern or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

New Bern is a town with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

New Bern is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is New Bern or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is well known for its resorts. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not a resort destination.


Is New Bern or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

New Bern is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to New Bern to go shopping. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is New Bern or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.


Is New Bern or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is well known for romance. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Yellowstone National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

New Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Is New Bern or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, New Bern is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Yellowstone National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

New Bern is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not popular with backpackers in part because it's a small town that most people breeze through on their way to the beach.

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

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

Neither New Bern or Yellowstone National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

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.


Is New Bern or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

New Bern
Yellowstone National Park

New Bern is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

New Bern is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is New Bern Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or New Bern?

How long in New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

Both New Bern and Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park than in New Bern. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for New Bern, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

Families should spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than New Bern. 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 New Bern. 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.


  • How many days in New Bern or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    New Bern 1-2 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

Even though New Bern is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The beautiful national park of Yellowstone National Park offers . 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 New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

New Bern is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Yellowstone National Park 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 New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

New Bern is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yellowstone National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

New Bern is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or New Bern?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in New Bern is $140, 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 New Bern and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New Bern $76
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New Bern $152
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in New Bern and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in New Bern 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 New Bern


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: New Bern Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New Bern $34
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Is it cheaper to fly into New Bern or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and New Bern 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
    New Bern $41
    Yellowstone National Park $46

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    New Bern $26
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Yellowstone Old Faithful Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Yellowstone National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone Lake & Hot Springs / 3 Hour Morning or Twilight Tour : $150
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    New Bern $30
    Yellowstone National Park $19


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