A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Los Angeles vs. Yellowstone National Park for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling, energetic, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a immense, unique, and stunning national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to Hollywood
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles. Although Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Los Angeles has more sights and attractions for tourists. Los Angeles is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Yellowstone National Park attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Los Angeles is famous for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Yellowstone National Park is famous for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Theater?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Yellowstone National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Los Angeles is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Music?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for its music scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a live music destination.

In Los Angeles you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Yellowstone National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Yellowstone National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Los Angeles. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Hiking trails can be found around both Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park, and they are amazing.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

People visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Los Angeles is a world class destination for shoppers. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Los Angeles is a very family-friendly destination. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for couples. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Yellowstone National Park is a great city 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.

Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yellowstone National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.


Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park Better for Students?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is very popular for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

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

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

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

Is Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Los Angeles
Yellowstone National Park

Los Angeles is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable city. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable 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 Los Angeles Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Los Angeles than Yellowstone National Park. However, 5-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Yellowstone 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 Los Angeles.


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

One day in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Los Angeles is a dynamic city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the immense national park of Yellowstone National Park. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Los Angeles is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast destination of Yellowstone National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-famous national park of Yellowstone National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Los Angeles 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yellowstone National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Los Angeles?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Los Angeles is $258, 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 Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Los Angeles $140
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Los Angeles $280
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles


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: Los Angeles Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Los Angeles $42
    Yellowstone National Park $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Los Angeles

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Los Angeles:


  • Hotel Parking for a Day
    $22
  • Taxi to Airport
    $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Los Angeles

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

  • World Cruise Center to Long Beach Airport (LGB) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Airport Transfer: $220
  • Airport transfer/transfer to any place: $150
  • Anaheim Resort Private Transfer to or from Hollywood: $79
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport LAX to Los Angeles in Business Car: $179
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport LAX to Los Angeles in Luxury Car: $281
  • Beverly Hills Transfers: $150
  • Cruise Terminal to Los Angeles Airport (LAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • Departure Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Ontario Airport ONT in Luxury Van: $271
  • Hollywood Private Transfer to/from Universal Studios or Burbank: $39
  • Hollywood to Long Beach Airport (LGB) - Departure Private Transfer: $80
  • John Wayne Airport (SNA) Private Transfer from or to Los Angeles.: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Los Angeles or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Los Angeles 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
    Los Angeles $60
    Yellowstone National Park $46
Typical Food Prices in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Mexican Dinner (family of 4)
    $32
  • Burritos for Two
    $15
  • Coffee and Danish
    $7.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Los Angeles

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

  • Santa Monica Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $66
  • Silver Lake Food Tour with Comedian Foodie Guide!: $75
  • Venice Beach Food Tour with Tastings: $75
  • Silverlake Food Tour with Comedian Guide : $79
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $89
  • Downtown Food Tour: $89
  • Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour: $89
  • West Hollywood Food Tour: $89
  • Venice Beach Food Tour: $89
  • Venice Beach LA Food Tour: $89
  • LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Original Downtown Los Angeles Walking Food Tour with Six Taste: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Los Angeles $82
    Yellowstone National Park $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Los Angeles

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Los Angeles's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Santa Monica Pier Rides (family of 4)
    $37
  • Bowling
    $13
  • Hollywood Tour for Two
    $30
  • Six Flags for 2
    $96

Tours and Activities in Los Angeles

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

  • App self-guided tour Celebrity homes in Beverly Hills: $4.29
  • Los Ángeles self-guided tour App - multilingual AudioGuide: $4.29
  • Gambling Built the Sunset Strip: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Hollywood Secrets: In App Audio Tour at the Famous District: $5.00
  • Santa Monica: Self-guided Bike Tour App - Audio + Written: $5.00
  • Chinatown Self-Guided Audio Tour (ENG): $5.40
  • The Heart of Los Angeles’ Dreamland: A Self-Guide Tour in Culver City: $5.99
  • LA: Broad Museum & Downtown Walk In-App Audio Tour: $7.00
  • Venice Boardwalk Quest Experience in Los Angeles: $7.07
  • Ghost Hunt Quest Experience in Hollywood: $7.07
  • Lost Souls of Hollywood Smartphone Ghost Tour: $7.29
  • Pacific Coast Hwy (LA Santa Maria): Smartphone Audio Tour: $7.29

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • 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: $299
  • 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 : $135
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088
  • Yellowstone 4-day Tour Salt Lake City with Airport Pickup: $1,168
  • Yellowstone For Kids Tour W/PU@ Fishing Bridge General Store : $250

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Los Angeles $15
    Yellowstone National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Los Angeles

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

  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $33
  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
  • Street Walking Taco & Wine Tour: $125
  • Salsa Lesson and Burlesque Show: $139
  • Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting: $195
  • Wine Tour at Fess Parker Winery by Helicopter: $4,299


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

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