A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New York City vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for New York City and Bryce Canyon National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

New York City

New York City is a energetic, cosmopolitan, and one-of-a-kind city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a spectacular, other-worldly, and breathtaking park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

New York City and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New York City. Although New York City and Bryce Canyon National Park are popular destinations, New York City has more sights and attractions for tourists. New York City is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Bryce Canyon National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. New York City is famous for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters.

How is New York City different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in New York City are world-renowned. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.


Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Theater?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its theatre productions. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

New York City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

New York City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.


Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Music?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its live music scene. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New York City. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New York City is not a resort destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

New York City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, New York City draws large crowds to its stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Christmas?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Bryce Canyon National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in New York City. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Bryce Canyon National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is a great city for visiting Christmas markets. However, Bryce Canyon National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Bryce Canyon National Park does not offer Christmas markets.


Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both New York City and Bryce Canyon National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

New York City is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very kid-friendly city. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Bryce Canyon National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, New York City has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Bryce Canyon National Park. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

New York City is a great city to visit for backpackers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.


Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Students?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its public transit.

New York City has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Is New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

New York City
Bryce Canyon National Park

New York City is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

New York City is a very easy city to get around on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is New York City Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or New York City?

How long in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than Bryce Canyon National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Bryce Canyon 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 New York City.


  • How many days in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    New York City 3-7 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bryce Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find around the beautiful park of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or New York City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in New York City is $326, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135. 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 York City and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New York City $175
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New York City $350
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in New York City and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in New York City or Bryce Canyon 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 York City


Hotels in Bryce Canyon 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 York City Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New York City $49
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:


  • Subway
    $4.50
  • Taxi Ride
    $8.00
  • Subway
    $2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Philadelphia: $523
  • La Guardia Airport Private Limousine Transfer: $489
  • Skip-the-line Tickets to Bronx Zoo with Private Transfers: $410
  • JFK Airport To Manhattan Luxury SUV Transfer: $370
  • Empire State Building NYC Tour, Pre-booked Tickets, Transfer: $300
  • Private New York City Airport Departure Transfer : $299
  • Skip the line One World Observatory Private Tour with Transfers : $296
  • Skip-the-line One World Observatory Tour with Transfers: $296
  • Central Park Zoo Skip-the-line Tickets & Private Transfers: $291
  • Central Park Zoo Skip the line Tickets and Private Transfers : $291
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in New York (hotel OR airport pick-up): $288
  • New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to New York - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $280

Is it cheaper to fly into New York City or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and New York City 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 York City $50
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33
Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Gelato
    $7.50
  • Snacks for Two at Yankees Game
    $34
  • Coffee
    $6.53
  • Smoothie
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

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

  • New York, Queens Culinary Stroll : Food Tour on Foot: $26
  • Lower East Side and Essex Market Multicultural Food Tour: $39
  • Half-Day Private Pizza Crawl in Manhattan: $40
  • New York City Pizza Crawl: Best of Manhattan route: $41
  • Shared Food Tour Bohemian Greenwichvillage: $45
  • Ultimate Greenwich Village NYC Food Tour: $63
  • NYC: Greenwich Village Guided Food Tour: $63
  • Pizza Walking Tour of Downtown Brooklyn: $65
  • West Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • Downtown Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • East Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    New York City $180
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Comedy Show Tickets
    $56
  • City Map
    $8.00
  • Broadway Musical
    $111
  • Broadway Show Program
    $10
  • Magazine
    $6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Days Niagara Falls USA, Watkins Glen and Scenic Hotel Tour : $257
  • 3 Hour Session at Williamsburg's Adventure Park Area 53: $42
  • 9/11 Memorial Tour with Skip-the-Line Museum Ticket: $55
  • BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and Amish FarmNHouse Tour from NY: $137
  • Downtown NYC Walking Tour & One World Observatory Standard Admission Ticket: $164
  • New York City Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village: $36
  • Official Central Park Pedicab Tours: $50
  • THE VIP CARRIAGE RIDE with photo stops (50min) ~ Skip the line : $150
  • & Juliet on Broadway Ticket : $110
  • 1 Day Tour to Philadelphia and Hershey's Chocolate World: $179
  • 1 HR - NYC Private Classic Car Experience - Downtown: $249
  • 1 HR - NYC Private Classic Car Experience - Midtown: $75

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • 8 Hours Cosmic Ashtray Experience in Escalante: $299
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Bryce Canyon Photography Tours: $289
  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • Grand Staircase Full-Day Private Tour: $299
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids, Things to Do in Central Park in NYC, and The Best Museums in New York City.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    New York City $29
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

  • NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $19
  • NYC Pub Crawl and Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $29
  • New York Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
  • NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl: $34
  • New York Rooftop Pub Crawl: $39
  • NYC: Manhattan's Only Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $42
  • Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • East Village Gangster Ghost Pub Crawl: $64
  • Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl: $74
  • Guided Brooklyn Craft Brewery Tour: $99


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

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