A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Yosemite National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a popular, world-famous, and stunning national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Philadelphia and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Yosemite National Park are both popular with visitors, Philadelphia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Yosemite National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Philadelphia on the map. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Yosemite National Park is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Yosemite National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Philadelphia offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia is very popular with diverse venues. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Yosemite National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yosemite National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Yosemite National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Yosemite National Park does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Yosemite National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Yosemite National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia and Yosemite National Park are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Yosemite National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.


Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yosemite National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a well-known place for students. However, Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Yosemite National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Philadelphia can get you to most places easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Yosemite National Park has some public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.


Is Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Yosemite National Park

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

Both Philadelphia and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park than in Philadelphia. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Yosemite 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 Philadelphia.


  • How many days in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

Philadelphia is a big city with plenty to do. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

Philadelphia is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Yosemite National Park is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Philadelphia. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Yosemite National Park is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite National Park or Philadelphia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $188, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $129. 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 Philadelphia and Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Yosemite 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 Philadelphia


Hotels in Yosemite 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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Yosemite National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $95
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Philadelphia City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $135
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $353

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park and Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $49
    Yosemite National Park $40
Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Best of Philly Food Tour: $55
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $84
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Yosemite National Park $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

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


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.40
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $8.99
  • Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Philadelphia In App Walking Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Fantastic Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

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

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Family Fun Private Half Day Fly Fishing Adventure: $215
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Private Guided Hiking Tour in Yosemite: $293
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Waterfalls of Yosemite: Customizable Private Tour: $495
  • Yosemite Full Day Small Group High Country / Mariposa Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $11
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Yosemite National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


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

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