A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Park City Utah for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit San Francisco or Park City Utah?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Park City Utah, 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 outdoorsy, quirky, and eccentric coastal city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a high energy, adventurous, and active town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

San Francisco and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Golden Gate Bridge
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • 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


Is there more to do in San Francisco or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco. Although San Francisco and Park City Utah are popular destinations, San Francisco has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Francisco is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Park City Utah attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, and resorts. San Francisco is famous for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also well known for The Golden Gate Bridge. Park City Utah is famous for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding.

How is San Francisco different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for skiing. However, San Francisco is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Park City Utah is among the best in the world. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

San Francisco is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Francisco or Park City Utah?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, San Francisco has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Theater?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in San Francisco or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through San Francisco, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Park City Utah makes for a great culinary experience. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.


Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

Park City Utah has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. 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.

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Music?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is a good destination for its music scene. However, Park City Utah is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Park City Utah is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Park City Utah is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.


Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Beaches?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is great for the beach. However, Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Many people visit San Francisco for it's beautiful 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.

Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for hiking. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

San Francisco is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Park City Utah?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many people travel to San Francisco specifically to go shopping. 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.

Park City Utah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.


Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Families?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco and Park City Utah are both world-class destinations for the whole family.

San Francisco is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. 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.

Park City Utah is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Park City Utah has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.


Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Students?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Park City Utah is not popular with students.

Many students visit San Francisco. 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.

Park City Utah is not popular with students.

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Park City Utah. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Is San Francisco or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

San Francisco
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

Park City Utah is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

San Francisco is very walkable. 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.


For even more information, also check out Is San Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Park City Utah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Park City Utah?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Francisco 3-7 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in San Francisco or Park City Utah?

Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the high energy destination of Park City Utah. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Park City Utah?

San Francisco is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Park City Utah. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in San Francisco or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Francisco. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the adventurous destination of Park City Utah. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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 Park City Utah?

Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful town of Park City Utah. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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, Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah is $320. 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 Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Francisco $130
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Francisco $260
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in San Francisco and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in San Francisco or Park City Utah? 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 Park City Utah


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 Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Francisco $16
    Park City Utah $72
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: $556
  • Carmel 1-Way Transfer to/from San Francisco Airport: $535
  • SFO Airport Private Transfer to/from Sacramento: $411
  • Napa Valley 1-Way Transfer to/from the San Francisco Airport: $400
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to San Francisco: $342
  • 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
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Cruise Terminal - Arrival Private Transfer: $182

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $115
  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $90
  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33

Is it cheaper to fly into San Francisco or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah 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
    Park City Utah $65

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
  • 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: $95
  • Chinatown: Tea & Dim Sum Food Tour in San Francisco: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Francisco $46
    Park City Utah $68

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 Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260
  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175

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
    Park City Utah $46

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 Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah is more expensive. And not only is San Francisco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Francisco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Francisco 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 Park City Utah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Park City Utah than you might in San Francisco.

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 Park City Utah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Francisco or Park City Utah?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Park City Utah. When comparing the sizes of San Francisco and Park City Utah, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.