A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Cody, Wyoming for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cancun or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Cody, Wyoming can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a tropical, active, and adventurous city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a fascinating, activity-filled, and historic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cancun and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Cody, Wyoming are popular destinations, Cancun has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cancun is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cody, Wyoming attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Cancun is more touristy than Cody, Wyoming and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also well known for . Cody, Wyoming is famous for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.


How is Cancun different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Cancun and Cody, Wyoming.

Many visitors head to Cancun specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cody, Wyoming can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.


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

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Cancun and Cody, Wyoming.

Cancun has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cody, Wyoming area. 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 Cancun or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cancun is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Cancun just to party. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

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 Cancun or Cody, Wyoming Better for Resorts?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cancun is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cancun is a perfect choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.


Is Cancun or Cody, Wyoming Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cancun is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun is not to be missed. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Cody, Wyoming is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Cody, Wyoming Better for Beaches?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cancun is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cancun is a very popular vacation destination. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

Cody, Wyoming is not a beach destination.

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

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is very good for its old town. However, Cancun does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Cody, Wyoming. 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.

Cancun does not have a historic old town.


Is Cancun or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

You'll find nice hiking in both Cancun and Cody, Wyoming.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cancun. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

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 Cancun or Cody, Wyoming?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Cody, Wyoming is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Cancun to go shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is Cancun or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cancun is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cancun is one of the most popular family destinations. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Cody, Wyoming is a very kid-friendly city. 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.


Is Cancun or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cancun is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Cancun has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon 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 Cancun or Cody, Wyoming Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cancun is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Cancun is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Cody, Wyoming is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of campgrounds and cheap motels in the area.

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

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

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

Cancun has some public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

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


Is Cancun or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Cancun
Cody, Wyoming

Cancun 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.

Cancun is very walkable. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

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 Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cancun or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cancun and Cody, Wyoming. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Cody, Wyoming. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cody, Wyoming.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun 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 Cancun.


  • How many days in Cancun or Cody, Wyoming? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cancun 4-7 
    Cody, Wyoming 1-3

One day in Cancun or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the wild destination of Cancun. 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.

Cody, Wyoming might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cancun or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cancun. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Cody, Wyoming is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Cancun or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the tropical destination of Cancun. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cody, Wyoming. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cancun or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful city of Cancun. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cody, Wyoming is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cody, Wyoming or Cancun?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cancun is $148, 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 Cancun and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cancun $98
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cancun $196
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Cancun and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Cancun 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 Cancun


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: Cancun Hotel Prices and Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cancun $18
    Cody, Wyoming $46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cancun

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Cancun:


  • Taxi Around Town
    $1.68
  • Airport Shuttle (for 2)
    $14
  • Ferry to Isla de Mujeres (for 2)
    $17
  • Local Bus (for 2)
    $2.04

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cancun

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

  • transfers between hotels in Cancun hotel strip: $20
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Cancun APT-HTL (CUN): $45
  • Transfers in Private Minibus: $97
  • Transfers in Private MiniVan wi fi on board: $61
  • Transfers in Luxury Sedan from Cancun Airport: $85
  • Transfers in Lincoln Strecth Limousine with Wi Fi on board: $261
  • Transfers in Lincoln Strecth Limousine with Wi Fi on board: $121
  • Transfers From Hotel to Hotel: $100
  • Transfer in Private vehicle from Cancun Airport (CUN) - Akumal City: $74
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Cancun Airport (CUN) - Akumal City: $67
  • Transfer in Luxury Mercedes Benz Minivan: $91
  • Transfer from Puerto de Chiquila to Cancun Airport: $180

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

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Cancun 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
    Cancun $29
    Cody, Wyoming $47
Typical Food Prices in Cancun

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


  • Lunch for Two
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cancun

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

  • Captain Hook: Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun: $46
  • Mayan Chichen Itza And Pirate Dinner Two Day Experience: $57
  • The Ultimate Cancun Taco & Street Mexican Food Tour: $59
  • Dinner Show with Pirates! (2x1 Price): $62
  • (2x1 price) Dinner Show and Pirates Experience : $63
  • (2x1 price) Pirate Night! Dinner, Fun and Show: $63
  • (2x1 price)Pirate Adventure! Open Bar, Dinner and Show : $63
  • Pirate Show and Dinner (2x1 price)! Best Promo : $64
  • Cancun Street Food Tour with Food Stalls, Local Market and Murals: $64
  • Private Ultimate Cancun Taco and Street Mexican Food Tour: $69
  • Guided Cancun Local Mexican Food Tour: $77
  • Cancun Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $78

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cancun $35
    Cody, Wyoming $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cancun

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


  • Seasick Pills
    $0.60
  • Whale Shark Tour (for 2)
    $102

Tours and Activities in Cancun

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

  • ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote Transportation Included: $8.00
  • Bacalar tour + Lunch + Boat, from Cancun and Riviera Maya: $139
  • Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club: $85
  • Full Day All Inclusive Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres : $99
  • Full Day Chichen-Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Complete Tour: $37
  • Holbox Island Magic Tour from Cancun : $144
  • LDS Tour to Chichen Itza + Cenote : $165
  • Party Adventure at Isla Mujeres from Cancun & Playa del Carmen: $93
  • Private Tour to Tulum Ruins and Cenotes : $257
  • Reef and Sunken Ship Snorkeling Experience in Cancun: $85
  • Riviera Maya Luxury Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch and Drinks: $139
  • (4x1) Full day tour to Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen : $48

Tours and Activities in Cody, Wyoming

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

  • All-Inclusive Yellowstone”The Volcano” *FAMILY FRIENDLY* Tour: $259
  • Cody Trolley Tours - Best of the West Trolley Tour: $34
  • Cody Wyo-Wild Mustang Safaris and Tours/Red Canyon Wild Mustangs : $99
  • From Cody: Full-Day Yellowstone National Park Tour: $260
  • Guided Lower Loop of Yellowstone Tour from Cody, WY: $269
  • Guided Upper Loop of Yellowstone Tour from Cody, WY: $269
  • Red Canyon Mustang Tour 8am: $89
  • Red Canyon River Trip’s all inclusive Half Day Tour! : $85
  • Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tour 5:00: $89
  • Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours!: $40
  • Wild Mustang Half Day Tour - Cody Wyoming - Private: $298
  • Yellowstone Custom Wildlife and Nature Tour: $298

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cancun $13
    Cody, Wyoming $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Cancun

Also in Cancun, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Social Pub Crawl in Cancun: $37
  • Small Group EkBalam Pink Lakes Cenote and Tequila Distillery Tour: $287


When comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Cody, Wyoming, we can see that Cody, Wyoming is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cancun or Cody, Wyoming?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Cody, Wyoming. When comparing the sizes of Cancun 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.