A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Park City Utah vs. Olympic National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Park City Utah or Olympic 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 Park City Utah and Olympic 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.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a active, high energy, and adventurous town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a stunning, vast, and pristine park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Park City Utah and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Park City Utah. Although Park City Utah and Olympic National Park are both popular with visitors, Park City Utah has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Park City Utah is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Olympic National Park is known for its museums and hiking. Park City Utah is more touristy than Olympic National Park and is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to Deer Valley Resort. Olympic National Park is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Park City Utah different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park Better for Skiing?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for snow skiing. However, Olympic National Park is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Park City Utah should be on your list. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

Olympic National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Olympic National Park. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is the Food Better in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Park City Utah. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

Olympic National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

Park City Utah is a world class party destination. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.


Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Park City Utah and Olympic National Park.

There are plenty of resorts in Park City Utah to choose from. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Olympic National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an amazing park to visit for hiking. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Olympic National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Is the Shopping Better in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Park City Utah is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.


Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Park City Utah is a very family-friendly destination. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Olympic National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for couples.

Park City Utah makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Olympic National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.


Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Park City Utah can get you around easily. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is mostly limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

Is Park City Utah or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Park City Utah
Olympic National Park

Park City Utah is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Park City Utah on foot. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Park City Utah Worth Visiting? and Is Olympic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Park City Utah?

How long in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

In either Park City Utah or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Park City Utah has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Park City Utah than Olympic National Park. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Park City Utah, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Park City Utah 3-5 
    Olympic National Park 2-5

One day in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

In Park City Utah, you'll find food and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Olympic National Park, you'll find museums and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Park City Utah. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Olympic National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

Park City Utah is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Olympic National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the high energy destination of Park City Utah. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the park of Olympic National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic National Park or Park City Utah?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Park City Utah is $320, while the average daily cost in Olympic National Park is $124. 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 Park City Utah and Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Park City Utah $202
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Park City Utah $404
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Park City Utah and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Park City Utah or Olympic 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 Park City Utah


Hotels in Olympic 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: Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Park City Utah $72
    Olympic National Park $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33
  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $91
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Park City Utah or Olympic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Olympic National Park and Park City Utah 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
    Park City Utah $65
    Olympic National Park $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Park City Utah $68
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260

Tours and Activities in Olympic National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Olympic National Park are as follows:

  • Olympic Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Olympic Full Day Small Group Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Park City Utah $46
    Olympic National Park $5.57


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

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