A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Yellowstone National Park for Resorts, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Should I visit Orlando 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. Other popular activities here include shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Yellowstone National Park

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

Orlando and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
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 Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Orlando than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Orlando is well known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is famous for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Yellowstone National Park is well known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife.

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

Is Orlando or Yellowstone National Park Better for Theater?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Orlando is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Yellowstone National Park is not a theatre destination.


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

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Orlando is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Orlando is an experience not to be missed. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

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

Orlando has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orlando or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Orlando is very popular for its resorts. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Orlando is a great choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Yellowstone National Park. 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.


Is Orlando or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Orlando is well known for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orlando or Yellowstone National Park Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Orlando is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Yellowstone National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Orlando is not to be missed. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Yellowstone National Park does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Orlando or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Orlando is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Orlando or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Yellowstone National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

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

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Yellowstone National Park. 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.


Is Orlando or Yellowstone National Park Better for Students?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Orlando is a popular place for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

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

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Orlando is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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 Orlando or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Orlando
Yellowstone National Park

Neither Orlando or Yellowstone National Park are walkable places.

Orlando is not a very walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

Yellowstone National Park is not a walkable city. 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 Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Orlando 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 Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Orlando or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the active city of Orlando. People enjoy 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the destination of Orlando. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

Orlando is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

Orlando 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Orlando?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $321, 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 Orlando and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Orlando 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 Orlando


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: Orlando Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Yellowstone National Park $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

Also for Orlando, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Transfer Service in Orlando Hotel to Airport (MCO): $96
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Orlando Airport MCO to Orlando in Luxury SUV: $98
  • Door to Door Shuttle Transfer from Orlando to Miami: $80
  • Hotel near Universal to Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • MCO Airport Private Transfer to/from Kennedy Space Center: $210
  • One Way Luxury Transfer to the Cruise Dream: $245
  • One Way Private Transfer from MCO to Orlando Hotels : $31
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Canaveral Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $84
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Miami Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Miami accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $256
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Orlando - Arrival Private Transfer: $50
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Orlando - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $100

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Orlando 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
    Orlando $65
    Yellowstone National Park $46
Typical Food Prices in Orlando

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

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

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $38
  • Tastes of the World Food Tour in Winter Haven : $50
  • Señor Frogs Lunch / Dinner Package: $50
  • Dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe with Live Music: $58
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Sleuth's Mystery Dinner Show, Orlando: $69
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Teatro Martini Dinner Show in Orlando: $79
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Yellowstone National Park $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orlando.

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Orlando Icon Park Adventure Room Ticket: $12
  • 7-D Dark Ride Entry Ticket: $12
  • Skip the Line: Museum of Military History Ticket: $12
  • Old Town Entertainment District Attraction Tickets: $15
  • Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf Entry Ticket: $18
  • Lonely Dog Immersive Art Storytelling Experience: $20
  • West Orange Trail 10 Mile Private Bike Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $20
  • Experience Zero Latency Virtual Reality in Max Action Arena: $20
  • Orlando City Pride- National Women's Soccer League Tickets: $22
  • Chocolate Kingdom Factory Adventure Tour: $22
  • Orlando City Lions: MLS Soccer Tickets: $24

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • 5-Day Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Tour: $3,349
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $200
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $269
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Virtual Bar Crawl & Scavenger Hunt: $12
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $85
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


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

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