A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Canaveral vs. Chattanooga for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga, 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.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a unique, iconic, and fascinating town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Canaveral. Although Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga are popular destinations, Cape Canaveral has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Canaveral is very popular for its museums, resorts, and beaches, while Chattanooga attracts visitors for its nightlife and hiking. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Chattanooga and is popular for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. It is also well known for The Kennedy Space Center. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Cape Canaveral is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Cape Canaveral on the map. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.


Is the Food Better in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga can be an enjoyable experience.

Cape Canaveral is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

Chattanooga offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Most people don't head to Cape Canaveral specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

Is Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for its resorts. However, Chattanooga is not a resort destination.

Cape Canaveral has a few great resort options. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Chattanooga is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Cape Canaveral is a good option for a beach vacation. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a great city for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga for the hiking trails. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga both offer plenty of nice spots.

Cape Canaveral has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

Chattanooga is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.


Is Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Cape Canaveral is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cape Canaveral is a very family-friendly destination. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Cape Canaveral is a great destination for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Cape Canaveral frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

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

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.


Is Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chattanooga or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga. In our opinion, Cape Canaveral has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cape Canaveral than Chattanooga. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 2-3 days is enough time in Chattanooga.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chattanooga than Cape Canaveral 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 Chattanooga.


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Chattanooga 2-3

One day in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fascinating town of Cape Canaveral. Most people visit for the museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Chattanooga, you'll find museums and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the unique destination of Cape Canaveral. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

The fascinating town of Cape Canaveral offers museums and food. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chattanooga. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Cape Canaveral. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Chattanooga. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Chattanooga or Cape Canaveral?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $220, while the average daily cost in Chattanooga is $182. 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 Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Chattanooga $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Chattanooga $184
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga? 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 Cape Canaveral


Hotels in Chattanooga


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Chattanooga $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer: $195
  • Private Van Transfer from Port Canaveral,Cocoa Beach to MCO: $70
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO)-Departure Transfer: $84
  • One Way MCO Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $85
  • Orlando Airport to/from Port Canaveral Sedan Transfer up to 3 pax: $145
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Altamonte Springs: $246
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Celebration: $247
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $216
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Ocoee: $254
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $282

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

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


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Prices for flights to both Chattanooga and Cape Canaveral 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
    Cape Canaveral $43
    Chattanooga $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Port Canaveral Food Tours : $125

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chattanooga.

  • MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour: $65
  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Chattanooga $52

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Wizard of OZ Museum tour: $30
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Self-Guided Kayaking Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $55
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $58
  • Two Hour Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $60
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • Victory Cruises Casino Luxury Transportation: $75
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95
  • Wizard of OZ Museum Ticket with Guided Tour by the Owner: $125

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

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

  • 2 Virtual Reality Simulator Bundle for Outdoor Experiences: $27
  • ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga: $23
  • Chattanooga "C-Block Prison Break" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $36
  • Chattanooga "Locker Room Lockdown: Mascot Rescue" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $34
  • Chattanooga "Secret Agent" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $34
  • Chattanooga "The Inheritance Mystery Room" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $36
  • Chattanooga "Vaccine: Search For The Zombie Cure" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $36
  • Chattanooga Ghosts of the Misty Mountains Walking Tour: $26
  • Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour: $23
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $25
  • Adults-Only Haunted City Walking Tour: $35
  • City Trolley Tour with Coker Automotive Museum visit: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Chattanooga $24


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga, 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.


When is the best time to visit Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Chattanooga. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Chattanooga for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Chattanooga in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. Cape Canaveral receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in July than Chattanooga. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga in the Autumn?

Both Chattanooga and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Chattanooga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Canaveral in October average around 74°F (24°C), and Chattanooga averages at about 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In October, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Chattanooga. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Cape Canaveral is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga in the Winter?

Both Chattanooga and Cape Canaveral during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chattanooga in the winter. In January, Cape Canaveral is generally much warmer than Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 60°F (15°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in January than Chattanooga. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Chattanooga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Chattanooga. The beaches are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year.

Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Chattanooga in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Cape Canaveral usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Chattanooga
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm)