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

Should you visit Orlando or Zion National Park?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Zion 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 family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for shopping, theater, and nightlife.

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.

Orlando and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Zion National Park are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Zion National Park is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orlando is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Zion National Park is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or Zion National Park?

Zion National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Zion National Park Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Zion 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.

Zion National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Orlando makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Orlando or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

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

Is Orlando or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

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 Orlando or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

People visit Zion National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Zion National Park?

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

Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

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

Is Orlando or Zion National Park Better for Christmas?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Zion 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.

Zion National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zion National Park is very family-friendly. 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 Orlando or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

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

Zion National Park is a great park 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.

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 Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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 Zion National Park Better for Students?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for students. However, Zion 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.

Zion National Park is not popular with students.

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

Zion National Park is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

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.

Is Orlando or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Neither Orlando or Zion 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.

Zion National Park is not a 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 Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Orlando or Zion National Park?

Both Orlando 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 Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zion National Park than Orlando 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 Zion National Park.

One day in Orlando or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the entertaining destination of Orlando. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Zion National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This 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 Zion National Park?

Orlando is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active city of Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Zion 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 Zion National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Orlando. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Zion National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zion National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Zion 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. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zion National Park. In Zion National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

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