A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Arlington vs. Cape Cod for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Arlington or Cape Cod?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Cape Cod, 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.

Arlington

Arlington is a educational, international, and historical city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a wealthy, maritime, and beautiful beach destination. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Arlington and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Cape Cod?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Cod. Although Arlington and Cape Cod are popular destinations, Cape Cod has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Cod is very popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Arlington attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Arlington is famous for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. It is also well known for The Cape Cod National Seashore.

How is Arlington different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cape Cod and Arlington. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arlington or Cape Cod?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Arlington is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Arlington or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Arlington and Cape Cod.

Arlington has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Arlington is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Arlington for the nightlife scene. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Arlington is not a resort destination.


Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Arlington is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cape Cod. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Arlington is not a beach destination.

Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod has hiking trails worth exploring. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Cape Cod?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Arlington is a great destination for shopping. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.


Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cape Cod makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Arlington is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Students?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Arlington is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Many students visit Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Is Arlington or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Arlington is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in Arlington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Arlington or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Arlington
Cape Cod

Arlington is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

Arlington is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.


For even more information, also check out Is Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Cape Cod?

Both Arlington and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Arlington. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Arlington, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cape Cod than Arlington. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cape Cod that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Cape Cod 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 Arlington.


  • How many days in Arlington or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Arlington or Cape Cod?

The city of Arlington offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Cape Cod?

Arlington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arlington, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Arlington or Cape Cod?

Arlington is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.


A week in Arlington or Cape Cod?

Arlington is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Cape Cod or Arlington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $264, while the average daily cost in Cape Cod is $183. 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 Arlington and Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Cape Cod? 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 Arlington


Hotels in Cape Cod


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: Arlington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Cape Cod $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod and Arlington 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
    Arlington $81
    Cape Cod $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Cape Cod $27

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Cape Cod $19


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arlington Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Arlington or Cape Cod?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arlington or Cape Cod in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Cape Cod. Many travelers come to Arlington for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Arlington is a little warmer than Cape Cod in the summer. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arlington usually receives less sunshine than Cape Cod during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arlington usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Cape Cod. Many visitors come to Arlington in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Arlington is a little warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arlington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Arlington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Arlington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Arlington usually gets less rain in October than Cape Cod. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Cape Cod in the Winter?

Both Cape Cod and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arlington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Cape Cod can be very cold. Arlington can be very cold during winter. In January, Arlington is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 35°F (1°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Arlington usually receives less sunshine than Cape Cod during winter. Arlington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In January, Arlington usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Cape Cod in the Spring?

Both Cape Cod and Arlington during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

Arlington is much warmer than Cape Cod in the spring. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arlington. In the spring, Arlington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Arlington usually gets less rain in April than Cape Cod. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Arlington

Arlington Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)