A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Aspen vs. Cody, Wyoming for Food, Nightlife, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Aspen and Cody, Wyoming can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Aspen

Aspen is a vibrant, artsy, and outdoorsy ski town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a activity-filled, historic, and fascinating town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Aspen and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aspen than Cody, Wyoming, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aspen is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cody, Wyoming is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Aspen is well known for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. Also, Aspen is famous for The Maroon Bells. Cody, Wyoming is well known for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.

How is Aspen different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Skiing?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a skiing destination.

Aspen is among the world's best ski destinations. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Cody, Wyoming is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cody, Wyoming. There are some interesting local museums around town. One of the most popular is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. There are also several gun museums like the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum and the Cody Firearms Museum. For history, check out the Museum of the Plains Indian or the Cody Heritage Museum.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Aspen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cody, Wyoming. Most of the restaurants offer a nod to the Wild West theme. There's a soda saloon, barbecue joints, and old fashioned saloons where you can grab a thick steak or fried green tomatoes. Many have fun decor and a family-friendly vibe that sets the atmosphere.

Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Aspen has a large number of nightlife venues. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

Cody, Wyoming has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene, like everything else in town, stays true to the Wild West theme. You'll find cowboys and cowgirls on the dance floor and enjoy live music and cold drinks at the local bar.


Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Music?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a very popular place for live music. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Aspen while you're in town. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Cody, Wyoming is not a live music destination.

Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Resorts?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Aspen. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for its Old Town?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Aspen does not have a historic old town.

Cody, Wyoming offers a nice historic old town area. The historic downtown is small, just a few blocks along Sheridan Avenue, but it's filled with personality. The buildings have local character and highlight the town's past.

Aspen does not have a historic old town.


Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Aspen. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Cody, Wyoming has hiking trails worth exploring. It's not hard to get out of town and enjoy some hiking. Trails take you through the local landscapes and sometimes offer you the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cody, Wyoming and Aspen.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cody, Wyoming. You'll find quirky shops, local vendors, and sporting equipment stores around town. Whether you want to pick up a souvenir or browse the Wild West paraphernalia, shopping is a fun activity in town.

Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Christmas?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cody, Wyoming does not offer Christmas activities.

Aspen offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Cody, Wyoming does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Christmas Markets?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cody, Wyoming does not offer Christmas markets.

Aspen offers plenty of Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Cody, Wyoming does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cody, Wyoming is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a fun stop off for families who are visiting the national parks in the area. There are diverse activities that will give the kids a break from hiking and nature programs. Make sure you check out the Cody Nite Rodeo, the Old Trail Town, and the horseback riding. For a glimpse at what life was like back in the Wild West, check out a Wild Bunch Gunfighters Show.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a very popular place for romance. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Aspen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

Cody, Wyoming makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, this is a fun town to shop, dine, and play. There's horseback riding, historical reenactments, and quirky shops. There's also the opportunity to see wildlife and chat with other travelers.


Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Aspen has some public transit options. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cody, Wyoming. There's no real public transit through town.

Is Aspen or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Aspen
Cody, Wyoming

Aspen is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Aspen is very walkable. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

Cody, Wyoming is a somewhat walkable place. The historic downtown can be explored on foot, but anything outside of town will require a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Aspen Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cody, Wyoming or Aspen?

How long in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aspen and Cody, Wyoming. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Aspen than in Cody, Wyoming. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Aspen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cody, Wyoming.

Couples should spend more time in Aspen than Cody, Wyoming. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Aspen that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aspen than Cody, Wyoming 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 Aspen.


  • How many days in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aspen 3-5 
    Cody, Wyoming 1-3

One day in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Cody, Wyoming, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this activity-filled small town offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aspen. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cody, Wyoming. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cody, Wyoming is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the small town destination of Cody, Wyoming. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Aspen is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find food and shopping around the activity-filled small town of Cody, Wyoming. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cody, Wyoming or Aspen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aspen is $293, while the average daily cost in Cody, Wyoming is $157. 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 Aspen and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aspen $170
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aspen $340
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Aspen and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Aspen or Cody, Wyoming? 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 Aspen


Hotels in Cody, Wyoming


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: Aspen Hotel Prices and Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aspen $56
    Cody, Wyoming $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aspen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aspen:

  • Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) - Private Transfer Arrival or Departure: $269
  • Aspen hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $222

Is it cheaper to fly into Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Aspen 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
    Aspen $85
    Cody, Wyoming $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aspen $45
    Cody, Wyoming $33

Tours and Activities in Aspen

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

  • Aspen Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Aspen's DarkSide Ghost Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Scenic Walking Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Past to Present Historic Tour: $40
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $40
  • Dark History Ghost-Themed Guided Walking Tour: $40
  • Highlights of Aspen Tour: $40

Tours and Activities in Cody, Wyoming

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

  • Cody Trolley Tours - Best of the West Trolley Tour: $34
  • Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours BY:Red Canyon River Trips: $56
  • Red Canyon River Trips 7 mile whitewater adventure 1:00PM Daily : $59
  • Red Canyon River Trips Whitewater 7 Mile Adventure 3:00PM Daily : $59
  • Red Canyon Wild Mustang Van or Bus Tours For Large Groups 5 PM: $79
  • Red Canyon Mustang’s Group Van Tour or Large Bus Tours 8am Daily : $89
  • Cody Wyo-Wild Mustang Safari Truck and Specialty Group Tours : $99
  • Red Canyon River Trips’s North Fork Whitewater Adventure : $99
  • Cody Wild Mustang Small Group ecotour By Red Canyon Wild Mustang : $99
  • Private Guided Nature Hiking Experience in Cody Wyoming: $135
  • Yellowstone Wildlife and Photo Tours “Upper Loop” Tour From Cody : $239
  • Yellowstone For Kids All-inclusive”Family Fun” Tours PU Cody Wy: $249

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aspen $20
    Cody, Wyoming $18


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

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


Which is Bigger, Aspen or Cody, Wyoming?

Cody, Wyoming has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Aspen and Cody, Wyoming, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.