A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. Yellowstone National Park for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Yellowstone 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.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and bustling coastal city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a popular, immense, and unique national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Virginia Beach and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful


Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yellowstone National Park. Although Virginia Beach and Yellowstone National Park are both popular with visitors, Yellowstone National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Virginia Beach is known for its nightlife and beaches. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. It is also home to Old Faithful. Virginia Beach is popular for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yellowstone National Park and Virginia Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Virginia Beach and Yellowstone National Park.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Virginia Beach. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Yellowstone National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.


Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Virginia Beach is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Virginia Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Virginia Beach is a popular place for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Virginia Beach is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yellowstone National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Virginia Beach and Yellowstone National Park are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Virginia Beach is very family-friendly. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Yellowstone National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

Yellowstone National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.


Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yellowstone National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Students?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Virginia Beach is a popular place for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Virginia Beach is popular with students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Neither Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.


Is Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Virginia Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Virginia Beach is generally not very walkable. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable coastal city. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

For even more information, also check out Is Virginia Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Virginia Beach and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 5-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than Virginia Beach 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 Yellowstone National Park.


  • How many days in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Virginia Beach 5-7 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the relaxing coastal city of Virginia Beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . 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.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Virginia Beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Virginia Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

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

A week in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Virginia Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . 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 reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


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, Yellowstone National Park or Virginia Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Virginia Beach is $126, while the average daily cost in Yellowstone National Park is $147. 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 Virginia Beach and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Virginia Beach $71
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Virginia Beach $142
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Virginia Beach and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Virginia Beach or Yellowstone 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 Virginia Beach


Hotels in Yellowstone 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: Virginia Beach Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Virginia Beach $39
    Yellowstone National Park $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Virginia Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Virginia Beach:


  • Beach Parking
    $10

Is it cheaper to fly into Virginia Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Virginia Beach 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
    Virginia Beach $30
    Yellowstone National Park $46

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Virginia Beach $21
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Virginia Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Virginia Beach.

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Virginia Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Neptune Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Neptune Ghosts: Ghosts of the Coast By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Sunset Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Morning Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium: $59
  • Dolphin Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour: $60
  • Wetland Zip Tour: $65
  • Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours: $68
  • Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour: $68
  • Kayak Dolphin Tours | Must Know How to Swim: $78
  • Dolphin Kayak Tour in Virginia Beach Must know how to swim: $87

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Yellowstone National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • 5-Day Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Tour: $3,349
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $200
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $269
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Virginia Beach $11
    Yellowstone National Park $19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Virginia Beach and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Yellowstone National Park is more expensive. And not only is Virginia Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Virginia Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Virginia Beach 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 Yellowstone National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yellowstone National Park than you might in Virginia Beach.

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