A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Park City Utah for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Tampa or Park City Utah?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Park City Utah? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Tampa and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Tampa or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Park City Utah. Although Tampa 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, museums, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tampa attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities. Park City Utah is more touristy than Tampa and is known for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Deer Valley Resort. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

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

Is Tampa or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Tampa is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Park City Utah should be on your list. 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.

Tampa is not a skiing destination.


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

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Park City Utah specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options 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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.


Is Tampa or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa is not a resort destination.

Park City Utah is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Park City Utah Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Tampa is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Park City Utah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Park City Utah Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Park City Utah

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

Many people visit Tampa for it's beautiful beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Park City Utah is not a beach destination.


Is Tampa or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Park City Utah. 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Park City Utah?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Park City Utah is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.


Is Tampa or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Park City Utah makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

The public transit in Park City Utah can get you to most places easily. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.


Is Tampa or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Tampa
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Park City Utah?

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

Families should spend more time in Park City Utah than Tampa. 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 Tampa. 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Tampa or Park City Utah?

In Tampa, you'll find food. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this active destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Park City Utah?

Tampa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Park City Utah. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Tampa or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Park City Utah is a fun place to experience. In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tampa or Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the city of Tampa. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the high energy destination of Park City Utah. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, 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 Tampa and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tampa hotels: $302
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Transfer tо Tampa Bay Cruise Port: $302
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Private Transfer to Tampa hotel/address: $203
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach: $187
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport TPA to Lakeland/Winter Haven: $187
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg Accommodation: $187
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa hotel or address : $187
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $175
  • Private transfer from Tampa airport To Zephyrhills, FL: $155
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Clearwater: $120
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $107
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $100

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

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

  • 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
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Park City Utah $65

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Park City Utah $68

Tours and Activities in Tampa

For Tampa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $50
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $108
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Escape to Paradise: Private Island Boat Adventure in Tampa: $630
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35
  • Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $41
  • Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart: $49
  • Haunted Tampa Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour - Ybor City: $35

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
    Tampa $26
    Park City Utah $46

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Park City Utah?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Park City Utah. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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.