Excurgo collection · ranked by traveller reviews · updated daily
The Best National Park Day Trips from US Cities
The parks are far and the rental car adds up. These guided day trips leave from the closest big cities, include park fees and transport, and are ranked by what travellers say afterwards. Prices are per person and refreshed daily.
How we pick: rating 4.5 or higher, at least 100 reviews, no audio-guide apps, transfers or rentals; up to 3 per city, ordered by rating weighted for review count. Prices are current "from" prices checked on September 27, 2026.
Las Vegas
The 3 top-rated picks in Las Vegas, from $94 per person. More things to do in Las Vegas →
Phoenix
The 3 top-rated picks in Phoenix, from $209 per person. More things to do in Phoenix →
San Francisco
The 2 top-rated picks in San Francisco, from $84 per person. More things to do in San Francisco →
Seattle
The 3 top-rated picks in Seattle, from $150 per person. More things to do in Seattle →
Denver
The 3 top-rated picks in Denver, from $149 per person. More things to do in Denver →
Miami
The 3 top-rated picks in Miami, from $37 per person. More things to do in Miami →
Los Angeles
The 3 top-rated picks in Los Angeles, from $179 per person. More things to do in Los Angeles →
Jackson Hole
The 3 top-rated picks in Jackson Hole, from $198 per person. More things to do in Jackson Hole →
Moab
The 3 top-rated picks in Moab, from $159 per person. More things to do in Moab →
Questions people ask
Is a guided day trip cheaper than renting a car?
For one or two people, usually yes once you add the rental, fuel, park entry ($35 per vehicle at most parks) and parking stress. For a family of four a car is often cheaper but a longer day.
How long is a national park day trip?
Plan 10–14 hours door to door. Grand Canyon South Rim from Las Vegas and Yosemite from San Francisco are the longest.
When is the best season?
Spring and autumn for the desert parks (Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree, Arches); July to September for Rainier, Rocky Mountain and Yellowstone; winter for the Everglades.
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Wondering what tours cost where you are going? See the Tour Price Index: median prices in 50 cities.