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

Should you visit San Antonio or Yosemite 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 San Antonio and Yosemite 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.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a colorful, festive, and fun city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a world-famous, stunning, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

San Antonio and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
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


Is there more to do in San Antonio or Yosemite National Park?

Both Yosemite National Park and San Antonio have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. San Antonio is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Yosemite National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than San Antonio and is known for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. San Antonio is well known for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks.

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

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

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

San Antonio offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Antonio area. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

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 San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Antonio. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for Music?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio is a popular place for its music scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Antonio is active and vibrant. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Yosemite National Park is not a live music destination.


Is San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a great destination for its resorts. However, San Antonio is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Yosemite National Park to choose from. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

San Antonio is not a resort destination.

Is San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

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

San Antonio offers a nice historic old town area. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

Yosemite National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

San Antonio is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Yosemite National Park?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to San Antonio to go shopping. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for Christmas?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio is a popular place for its Christmas activities. However, Yosemite National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Many visitors go to San Antonio during the Christmas season. It's fun to see the lights along the River Walk at Christmas.

Yosemite National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yosemite National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Antonio is a very family-friendly destination. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

Yosemite National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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 San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a great destination for romance. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Yosemite National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

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

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Yosemite National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

San Antonio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While its not on most backpacker's lists, it does have a fun atmosphere and a social setting.

Is San Antonio or Yosemite National Park Better for Students?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio is a popular place for students. However, Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.

San Antonio is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.


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

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a good destination for its public transit. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Yosemite National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

Is San Antonio or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

San Antonio
Yosemite National Park

San Antonio and Yosemite National Park both are respectable when exploring on foot.

San Antonio is generally not very walkable. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

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 San Antonio Worth Visiting? and Is Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or San Antonio?

How long in San Antonio or Yosemite National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.


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

One day in San Antonio or Yosemite National Park?

The city of San Antonio offers shopping and museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-famous national park of Yosemite National Park. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in San Antonio or Yosemite National Park?

The fun destination of San Antonio offers museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Yosemite National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in San Antonio or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Antonio. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking national park of Yosemite National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in San Antonio or Yosemite National Park?

San Antonio is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of San Antonio. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yosemite National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite National Park or San Antonio?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Antonio is $132, 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 San Antonio and Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Antonio $69
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Antonio $138
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in San Antonio and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Antonio 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 San Antonio


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: San Antonio Hotel Prices and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Antonio $20
    Yosemite National Park $41
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • Private One-way San Antonio Airport Transfer To/From San Antonio: $67
  • Private Round Trip Transfer - San Antonio International Airport (SAT): $93
  • Private Transfer: San Antonio Airport to San Antonio by Sedan, SUV or Minibus : $97
  • Galveston: One-Way Transfer GLS Airport to City: $237

Is it cheaper to fly into San Antonio or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park and San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $40
    Yosemite National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in San Antonio.

  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Antonio $36
    Yosemite National Park $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

Here are a few typical costs in San Antonio for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

Here are a few actual costs in San Antonio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self-Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $6.75
  • The Alamo In-App Audio Tour (WITHOUT A TICKET): $10
  • Briscoe Western Art Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • The Alamo Exhibit Entry Ticket: $14
  • Witte Museum Admission Ticket: $16
  • Tower of the Americas Entry Ticket: $20
  • San Antonio Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • San Antonio Museum of Art Entry Ticket: $22
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience: $24
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience Ticket: $24
  • San Antonio Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Historical Ghost Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

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

  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $11
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite: Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Valley Tour with Transport from Oakhurst: $130
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite’s High Country Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $190
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Antonio -
    Yosemite National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Death Warmed Over: San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Texas’ Oldest Haunted Pub Crawl Shared Walking Tour: $30
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $155


When comparing the travel costs between San Antonio and Yosemite National Park, we can see that San Antonio is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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