A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Bryce Canyon National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a fun-filled, underrated, and relaxed coastal city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a spectacular, other-worldly, and breathtaking park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Saint Petersburg and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Petersburg. Although Saint Petersburg and Bryce Canyon National Park are popular destinations, Saint Petersburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Petersburg is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Bryce Canyon National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Saint Petersburg is famous for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. It is also well known for St. Pete Beach.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Saint Petersburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.


Is the Food Better in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Petersburg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Petersburg has a few options to choose from. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its resorts.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.


Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is very popular for the beache. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.


Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Saint Petersburg and Bryce Canyon National Park are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Bryce Canyon National Park. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.


Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg and Bryce Canyon National Park both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Is Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Bryce Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg and Bryce Canyon National Park are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Saint Petersburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this underrated destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find around the spectacular park of Bryce Canyon National Park. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Saint Petersburg. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal city of Saint Petersburg. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Saint Petersburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $204, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135. 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 Saint Petersburg and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon 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 Saint Petersburg


Hotels in Bryce Canyon 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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $49
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

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


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • 8 Hours Cosmic Ashtray Experience in Escalante: $299
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Bryce Canyon Photography Tours: $289
  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • Grand Staircase Full-Day Private Tour: $299
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


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

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