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

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Detroit, 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 wonder-filled, unique, and iconic town. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Cape Canaveral and Detroit: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit. Although Cape Canaveral and Detroit are both popular with visitors, Detroit has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Detroit is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Cape Canaveral is known for its museums, resorts, and beaches. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Detroit and is known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Detroit 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 Detroit?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

Cape Canaveral is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cape Canaveral are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.


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

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Canaveral and Detroit 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.

Detroit offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Cape Canaveral or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

Detroit is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Detroit has something for everybody. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Detroit Better for Music?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

Detroit is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Cape Canaveral is not a live music destination.

Detroit has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Cape Canaveral is not a live music destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Detroit Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

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

With a selection of resorts, Cape Canaveral makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

Cape Canaveral has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Canaveral and Detroit both offer plenty of good 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.

Detroit is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.


Is Cape Canaveral or Detroit Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

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

Cape Canaveral is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Cape Canaveral or Detroit Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

Cape Canaveral is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Cape Canaveral makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

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

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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 Detroit a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Detroit

Detroit is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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 Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

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

Families should spend more time in Cape Canaveral than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 Detroit.


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

One day in Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

In Cape Canaveral, you'll find museums and food. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Detroit, you'll find nightlife and live music. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

In Cape Canaveral, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Canaveral has to offer.

Detroit is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Detroit?

Cape Canaveral is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Detroit. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Canaveral. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cape Canaveral. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Detroit. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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, Detroit 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 Detroit is $133. 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 Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Detroit? 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 Detroit


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: Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Round Trip NASA Space Center/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $67
  • Round Trip MCO Orlando Airport/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $170
  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $113
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Windermere: $270
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Sand Lake: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Reunion: $270
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Pointe Orlando: $232
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport: $282
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $282
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Ocoee: $254
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $239

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit 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
    Detroit $44

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 Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

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

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

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $11
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Segway Tour Strait to the Point: $99
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Detroit $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Canaveral and Detroit, we can see that Cape Canaveral is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit 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 Detroit.

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 Detroit Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Detroit, 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 Detroit?

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 Cape Canaveral or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Detroit. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

In July, Cape Canaveral is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 80°F (27°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

Cape Canaveral gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Detroit. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Detroit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Detroit in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 74°F (24°C) in October, and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Cape Canaveral receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Detroit in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Detroit can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Canaveral in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Detroit. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit and Cape Canaveral during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to Detroit for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Cape Canaveral is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 70°F (21°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in April than Detroit. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cape Canaveral is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)