A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Food, Hiking, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Bryce Canyon 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a eccentric, one-of-a-kind, and scenic coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

San Francisco and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Golden Gate Bridge
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Francisco. Although San Francisco and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, San Francisco has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Francisco is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its resorts. San Francisco is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. Bryce Canyon National Park is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is very popular for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in San Francisco are world-renowned. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

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 San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Theater?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is very good for its theatre productions. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in San Francisco, take in a show. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Francisco has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants 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 San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco 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 San Francisco has a few options to choose from. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

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 San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Music?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is very good for its live music scene. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco is not a resort destination.

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.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is a great coastal city for the beache. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.


Is San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco and Bryce Canyon National Park are both places where visitors can find terrific hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Around Bryce Canyon National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, San Francisco draws large crowds to its stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bryce Canyon National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Bryce Canyon National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco and Bryce Canyon National Park are both excellent to visit as a couple.

San Francisco is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

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 San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Students?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is a great coastal city for its student-friendly activities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

San Francisco is very popular with students. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.


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

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its public transit.

San Francisco has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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 San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park

San Francisco is a great coastal city for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

San Francisco is a very walkable coastal city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 San Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than Bryce Canyon National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for San Francisco, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Bryce Canyon 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 Francisco.


  • How many days in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Francisco 3-7 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bryce Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find around the beautiful park of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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 San Francisco?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Francisco is $222, 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 San Francisco and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Francisco $130
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Francisco $260
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in San Francisco and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Francisco 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 San Francisco


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: San Francisco Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Francisco $16
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Francisco

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in San Francisco:


  • Taxi to SFO
    $45
  • Golden Gate Bridge Toll
    $6.00
  • Alcatraz Tour
    $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Francisco

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

  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to Cruise Terminal: $557
  • Carmel 1-Way Transfer to/from San Francisco Airport: $535
  • SFO Airport Private Transfer to/from Sacramento: $410
  • Napa Valley 1-Way Transfer to/from the San Francisco Airport: $400
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to San Francisco: $343
  • San Francisco (SFO) to Calistoga Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $294
  • Private Airport Transfer From SFO to Sonoma (One-way): $280
  • Sedan Airport Transfer from Vallejo to SFO (one way): $259
  • Arrival Private Transfer SFO Airport to San Francisco City by SUV: $245
  • Departure Private Transfer San Francisco to SFO Airport in a SUV: $203
  • Transfer in private Minivan from San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Downtown city: $183
  • Private Transfer from Cruise Port to San Francisco Airport (SFO): $182

Is it cheaper to fly into San Francisco or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and San Francisco 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 Francisco $46
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Francisco

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

  • North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour: $79
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay: $82
  • Secret Food Tours San Francisco: $83
  • Mission District Food Tour with Tastings: $85
  • Farmers' Market & Ferry Building Food Tour: $87
  • San Francisco Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Mission District Food Tour: $89
  • Mission District Walking Food Tour: $89
  • Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco North Beach Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco Food Tour: Ferry Building and Ferry Plaza Farmers Market: $90
  • Secret Food Tour of North Beach and Chinatown: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Francisco $46
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in San Francisco

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Francisco.

  • 2hr - SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 1-hour San Francisco Bay Area Photography Experience: $299
  • 2-Hour Double Decker City Tour of San Francisco: $73
  • 2hr - INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2hr - INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2hr - SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests: $695
  • 3 Hour Sightseeing Small Group Guided Tour in San Francisco: $89
  • 3-Hour Private Group San Francisco Open Top Jeep Tour: $249
  • 3hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests: $795
  • 4-Hour Painted Ladies and Haight-Ashbury GoCar Tour: $272
  • 8 Course Nano-Brewed Liqueur Experience by an SF Native: $100

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

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Museums in San Francisco, The Best Outdoor Activities in San Francisco, and Things to Do In San Francisco on a Rainy Day.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Francisco $22
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78

Sample the Local Flavors in San Francisco

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in San Francisco:

  • Chinatown San Francisco’s Bar Crawl: An Audio Tour: $4.99
  • San Francisco Bar Crawl + Clubbing Experience: $27
  • SF Pub Crawl and Clubbing Experience: $27
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Sunset Distillery with Local Whiskey or Cocktail Tasting: $40
  • 2 to 3 Hour Bar Crawl in Castro San Francisco: $49
  • Wine Tasting on the Bay: $85
  • Private Wine Tour Napa or Sonoma from $99 per person up to 7 & Concierge Service: $99
  • The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour: $109
  • Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour: $109
  • Big Bus Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $125
  • Half-Day Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings: $126


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