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

Should you visit New York City or Zion 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 Zion 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 vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. New York City is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See New York City travel costs.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. Zion National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

New York City and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although New York City and Zion National Park are both popular with visitors, New York City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New York City is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Zion National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. New York City is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Zion National Park is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing.

How is New York City 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 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 Zion National Park?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in New York City that are not to be missed. 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.

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 New York City or Zion National Park Better for Theater?

New York City is a must-visit destination for theatre. However, Zion National Park is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in New York City. 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.

Zion National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

New York City 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, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

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 New York City or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

New York City is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

New York City is a world class party destination. 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.

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

Is New York City or Zion National Park Better for Music?

New York City is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Zion National Park is not a live music destination.

New York City is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Zion National Park is not a live music destination.

Is New York City or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

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

Zion National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is New York City or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

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

Zion National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

New York City is not a hiking destination.

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

New York City is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

New York City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

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

Is New York City or Zion National Park More Beautiful?

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Zion National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

New York City is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Is New York City or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Both New York City and Zion National Park are great 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.

Zion National Park is a very kid-friendly city. 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 New York City or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

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

New York City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Zion National Park is a great city 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 New York City or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion 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 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.

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 Zion National Park Better for Students?

New York City is a must-visit destination for students. However, Zion National Park is not popular with students.

New York City is a great destination for students. 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.

Zion National Park is not popular with students.

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

New York City is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

New York City has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere 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.

While Zion National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 New York City or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. 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.

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

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

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

How long in New York City or Zion National Park?

Both New York City and Zion National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, New York City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in New York City than Zion National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Zion 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 Zion 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 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 New York City.

One day in New York City or Zion National Park?

New York City is a energetic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. 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 world-renowned destination of Zion 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 Zion National Park?

New York City is a popular place to visit. New York City is a one-of-a-kind city where you can fill many days. 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 Zion 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. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in New York City or Zion National Park?

New York City is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Zion 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 Zion National Park?

New York City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Zion National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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