Travel Budget for Yellowstone National Park Visit Yellowstone National Park on a Budget or Travel in Style

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, United States of America

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking national park known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Yellowstone National Park and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're hiking in nature or taking in the beauty.

How much does it cost to travel to Yellowstone National Park?

You should plan to spend around $181 per day on your vacation in Yellowstone National Park. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $80 on meals
  • $37 on local transportation
  • $148 on hotels

A one week trip to Yellowstone National Park for two people costs, on average, $2,534. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $181
  • One Week Per person
    $1,267
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,534
  • One Month Per person
    $5,430
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,534
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,068
  • One Month For a couple
    $10,860
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Yellowstone National Park cost?

A one week trip to Yellowstone National Park usually costs around $1,267 for one person and $2,534 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Yellowstone National Park on average costs around $2,534 for one person and $5,068 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Yellowstone National Park will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Yellowstone National Park on average costs around $5,430 for one person and $10,860 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Yellowstone National Park expensive to visit?

Yellowstone National Park is a well-known national park that captivates a variety of travelers with diverse travel preferences and spending patterns. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

If you choose to make it so, Yellowstone National Park can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by enjoying the free hiking trails and finding more rustic accommodation.

On average, budget travelers spend $78 per day, mid-range travelers spend $181 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $362 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Yellowstone National Park.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Yellowstone National Park is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Winston-Salem or Edmonton.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Yellowstone National Park?

The average Yellowstone National Park trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Yellowstone National Park travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Yellowstone National Park cost?

Yellowstone National Park on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$32 $74 $149
Local Transportation 1 $16 $37 $71
Food 2 $35 $80 $158
Entertainment 1 $14 $34 $79
Alcohol 2 $4-12 $10-29 $22-65

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations for your travel expenses is important. While many assume they can visit Yellowstone National Park on a tight budget, the truth is that most people don't enjoy traveling that way. Think about what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer staying in resorts or hostels? Do you love exploring sights and attractions, or dining out? Your preferences will directly impact your budget and travel plans.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $78 daily average that backpackers get away with.

Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. Most tourists in Yellowstone National Park are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $181 per person, per day.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $362 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the national park will demand a higher price range.

Accommodation Budget in Yellowstone National Park

The cost of hotels in Yellowstone National Park can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $217, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $405. Overall, prices range from $146 to $700. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Yellowstone National Park for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $148. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $74 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $74
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $148

Hotels in Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Yellowstone National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Yellowstone National Park

The average hotel room price in Yellowstone National Park based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $217 in the low season and $405 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Yellowstone National Park

As a family-friendly national park, Yellowstone National Park is perfect for traveling with kids, so you may want to find an apartment with more room.

In this national park, there are several resorts available. You could discover a place that includes meals, or at least breakfast, with many resorts offering onsite restaurants.

Many people stay up to a week in Yellowstone National Park. If you're here for a longer time, you might want a vacation rental with a kitchen for preparing some of your own meals.

Choosing to travel in the shoulder or low season and avoiding summer will help you save on lodging costs and escape the tourist rush.



Transportation Budget in Yellowstone National Park

Unfortunately, Yellowstone National Park does not have a reliable public transit network. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Regrettably, the national park lacks walkability. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (poor)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (poor)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $37 per person, per day, on local transportation in Yellowstone National Park. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Yellowstone National Park is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $37

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.



Flights to Yellowstone National Park
How much does it cost to go to Yellowstone National Park? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Yellowstone National Park
The price of renting a car in Yellowstone National Park will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Yellowstone National Park

The dining options in Yellowstone National Park are limited and not particularly high-quality. Instead of splurging on meals, focus your budget on other activities that are more worthwhile. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Yellowstone National Park can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Yellowstone National Park is $80 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $80

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Yellowstone National Park is around $80 ($80) per person, with previous travelers spending from $35 to $158. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Yellowstone National Park are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $8 to $24
  • Lunch: $12 to $32
  • Dinner: $24 to $56
  • Coffee: $6
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $12

You can pick up food supplies in most of the villages throughout the park. There are also snack bars, restaurants and cafeterias in various locations. Prices can be high for the quality of food though, so planning ahead and traveling with your own food is always recommended.

Dining options in the park include dining rooms, cafeterias, and delis in most villages. Dining rooms are upscale restaurants in lodges that usually have breakfast, lunch and dinner available. Cafeterias are a more budget friendly option and usually have sandwiches, wraps, and soup. Delis offer snacks and sandwiches for a relatively cheap price.

Food & Dining Tips

If you're traveling with little ones, try to find restaurants that feature a children's menu. This can really cut costs since these meals are often cheaper. Remember, some places don't display kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter first.

Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.

Make a picnic to save some cash and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Just find a nearby grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and choose a nice park or scenic area for your meal.

Having a water bottle can help you save on drinks and do your part for the environment.

Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Yellowstone National Park

It's no surprise that Yellowstone National Park sees many visitors since it offers hiking, budget-friendly accommodations, resorts, and family-friendly activities.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Yellowstone National Park typically cost an average of $34 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $34

Some of the most famous sights within the park include Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, and Monument Geyser Basin, but there are countless more things to see and do in Yellowstone. The park is famous for its natural beauty and stunning landscape. There are many geothermal features spread throughout the park and it's possible to see more than 300 different geysers. Wildlife that can be seen within the park includes grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk.



Yellowstone covers a vast area and there are countless activities that you can enjoy while you're visiting the park. There are some interesting educational programs that are organized by the park service. Stop by the visitor information center on your way into the park and ask for some information. In particular, if you're traveling with children, this can be a fun way to learn about the area's history and geology.

Hiking and wildlife viewing are the most obvious activities within the park. The park information center can provide you with trail maps and suggest trails that are most appropriate for your skill level and interest set.

Other activities within the park include horseback riding, photography, fishing, swimming, and boating.

Sightseeing Tips

Hiking:
Hiking in and around Yellowstone National Park is absolutely fantastic. 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.

A nice way to explore destinations in Yellowstone National Park is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park for $200 details
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone for $150 details
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour for $125 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Yellowstone National Park

In Yellowstone National Park, you won't find much of a nightlife scene at all. Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $19 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Yellowstone National Park per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $19
Nightlife Tips

The nightlife scene is a lot of fun, but reducing how much you drink can go a long way in keeping your budget on track.



Travel cost data last updated: Dec 24, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Yellowstone National Park

  • In summer, prices tend to soar, and the national park gets pretty packed. If you want to save money and enjoy a quieter experience, plan your visit for the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Yellowstone National Park is large enough that you can often find various price levels for hotels, meals, and activities. Save money by exploring options, booking in advance, and checking out free things to do.
  • Slowing down your travel pace can be a great way to save money while still enjoying the beautiful sights around you. If you fill your days with too many activities, the costs can quickly add up. However, by taking your time and appreciating the moment, you'll typically find yourself spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Public transportation is quite scarce in Yellowstone National Park. It may be beneficial to rent a car or arrange a form of transport in advance, like a tour. Keep in mind that this could impact your budget in other ways.
  • Yellowstone National Park isn't the best place for hostels, so if you're aiming for a budget dorm, you might want to rethink your plans. Checking for cheap hotels or apartment rentals is a better alternative.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Yellowstone National Park.

Why would you recommend Yellowstone National Park to budget travelers? Or, why not?

It's probably the most popular national park we've been to so we had to book the campground really far in advance. It's definitely more expensive than most parks, but still not unreasonable considering this is a world class destination.

Jasmine
-
Jan 1 2024
Traveling in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone National Park

The world's first national park, Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872. The area is famous for its many geysers, hot springs, and thermal areas. It also has a wide diversity of wildlife and stunning beauty, making it one of the most impressive places you can visit in the United States. The national park takes up an area of about 3,472 square miles and is mostly located within the state of Wyoming. It also touches the states of Idaho and Montana.

If you're planning to stay in the park it is absolutely critical that you make reservations well in advance, as almost all of the lodging fills up, particularly during the peak summer months. The same can be said for the area's campgrounds.

The temperature within the park is highly variable. It's best to prepare for all weather types during your visit. The summer months can be pleasant with temperatures around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Nights can be much cooler, even in the summer. Spring and fall temperatures can range between freezing and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow is not uncommon and night time temperatures can be quite cold. Winter temperatures range from 0 tp 20 degrees Fahrenheit and can drop even colder during the night time hours.



Neighborhoods & Around

Yellowstone NP can be divided into several major regions. Bridge Bay, Fishing Bridge, and Yellowstone Lake are all great areas for boating, fishing, and seeing the parks thermal features. West Thumb and Grant Village are the two villages found on the western side of the lake. They also offer fishing, boating, and hot springs. Old Faithful is perhaps the most famous landmark in the park. It's located near the Old Faithful Inn and is surrounded by geysers and hot springs. Madison is found halfway between Old Faithful and the Norris Geyser basin, and Norris is located south of Mammoth. Mammoth is where you'll find the park headquarters. Tower-Roosevelt is a more rugged area with plenty of wildlife. Canyon Village has impressive natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Because it's so large, you might need a 2-day itinerary to see Yellowstone to make sure that you take it all in.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.