A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pittsburgh vs. Zion National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Zion National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh or Zion 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a industrial, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and breathtaking park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Pittsburgh and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zion National Park than Pittsburgh, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zion National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pittsburgh is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Zion National Park is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Also, Zion National Park is famous for Angels Landing. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

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

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

Pittsburgh is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Pittsburgh can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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

Pittsburgh is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

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 Pittsburgh or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pittsburgh is well known for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Pittsburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

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

Is Pittsburgh or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Zion National Park is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Zion National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Zion National Park?

Pittsburgh is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

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

Is Pittsburgh or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Zion National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zion National Park. 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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Pittsburgh or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Zion National Park is great for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Pittsburgh or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Zion National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. 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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

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

Pittsburgh and Zion National Park both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Zion National Park has a few public transit options. 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 Pittsburgh or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Pittsburgh is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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 Pittsburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Pittsburgh or Zion National Park?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Zion National Park than Pittsburgh. 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.

One day in Pittsburgh or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the industrial destination of Pittsburgh. This city offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With around the world-renowned park of Zion National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Pittsburgh or Zion National Park?

Pittsburgh is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the industrial city of Pittsburgh. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pittsburgh has to offer.

With around the destination of Zion National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Pittsburgh or Zion National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Pittsburgh. 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, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Pittsburgh or Zion National Park?

Pittsburgh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

Zion National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pittsburgh and Zion National Park, we can see that Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Expensive? and Is Zion National Park Expensive?.