A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Park City Utah for Skiing, Nightlife, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and Park City Utah can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a scenic, breathtaking, and serene national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and food.

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 skiing, nightlife, and food.

Shenandoah National Park and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for skiing
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Park City Utah. Although Shenandoah National Park and Park City Utah are popular destinations, Park City Utah has more sights and attractions for tourists. Park City Utah is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Park City Utah is more touristy than Shenandoah National Park and is known for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Deer Valley Resort. Shenandoah National Park is famous for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for skiing. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for snow skiing.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Park City Utah. 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

You'll find a number of reasonable museums and attractions in both Park City Utah and Shenandoah National Park.

While most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

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 the Food Better in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Park City Utah has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Shenandoah National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

Park City Utah is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

In Park City Utah, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Shenandoah National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Shenandoah National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

Park City Utah is an extremely popular town 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for couples. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Park City Utah is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Shenandoah National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Shenandoah National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

Park City Utah offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Shenandoah National Park
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

In either Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Park City Utah has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Park City Utah than Shenandoah National Park. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Park City Utah than Shenandoah National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Park City Utah that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah than Shenandoah 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

In Shenandoah National Park, you'll find food and skiing. 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.

With nightlife and food around the high energy town of Park City Utah, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

Shenandoah National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and shopping around the adventurous destination of Park City Utah, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shenandoah National Park. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

With shopping and skiing around the active town of Park City Utah, there's plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the national park of Shenandoah National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Park City Utah is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Shenandoah National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Shenandoah National Park is $125, 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 Shenandoah National Park and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shenandoah National Park $53
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shenandoah National Park $106
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Shenandoah National Park and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park


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: Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $70
    Park City Utah $72

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: $91
  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Shenandoah National Park or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Shenandoah National Park 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
    Shenandoah National Park $28
    Park City Utah $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $34
    Park City Utah $68

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
    Park City Utah $46


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shenandoah National Park and Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah is more expensive. And not only is Shenandoah National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shenandoah National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shenandoah 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 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 Shenandoah National Park.

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