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

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff?

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

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

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a adventurous , picturesque, and active city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Canaveral and Flagstaff: 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 for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Flagstaff. Although Cape Canaveral and Flagstaff are popular destinations, Flagstaff has more sights and attractions for tourists. Flagstaff is very popular for its food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cape Canaveral attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, and beaches. Cape Canaveral is famous for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. Flagstaff is famous for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66. It is also well known for Walnut Canyon National Monument.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Flagstaff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Cape Canaveral is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.


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

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Flagstaff has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

Cape Canaveral offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff has a few options to choose from. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

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 Flagstaff Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Cape Canaveral is a town with good options for its resorts. However, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Cape Canaveral is a town with good options for the beach. However, Flagstaff is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cape Canaveral. 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.

Flagstaff is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff Better for Hiking?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Flagstaff draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Canaveral and Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is a great destination for shopping. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.


Is Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Cape Canaveral is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cape Canaveral is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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.

Flagstaff is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

Is Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Cape Canaveral is well known for couples. Also, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.

Is Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Flagstaff. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.

Cape Canaveral is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You won't find any hostels in the area, but you may have some luck finding affordable accommodation nearby.


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

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

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 Flagstaff a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Flagstaff

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

Flagstaff is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.

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 Flagstaff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Flagstaff or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Flagstaff due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 2-4 days is enough time in Flagstaff.

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


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Flagstaff 2-4

One day in Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Cape Canaveral. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Canaveral has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Flagstaff, 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 Flagstaff?

You'll find museums and food around the wonder-filled destination of Cape Canaveral. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the iconic town of Cape Canaveral. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff?

Cape Canaveral is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Flagstaff. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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, Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff is $166. 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 Flagstaff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Flagstaff $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Flagstaff $172
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Flagstaff

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff? 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 Flagstaff


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: Flagstaff Hotel Prices.

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff?

Prices for flights to both Flagstaff 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
    Flagstaff $55

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Flagstaff $28

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 Flagstaff

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

  • 2 Hours Private E-Bike Tours In Northern Arizona: $75
  • All-day Grand Canyon • Indian Ruins • Volcano • Christian Tour: $199
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Flagstaff: $299
  • Antelope Slot Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Flagstaff: $285
  • Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park Tour with Lunch & Pickup: $245
  • Comprehensive Grand Canyon Tour from Flagstaff w/Lunch: $208
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour: $28
  • Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course-Adult Course: $65
  • Flagstaff Ghosts Tour By Us Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Flagstaff Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Flagstaff Segway Tour: $129
  • Flagstaff, AZ: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Flagstaff $29

Sample the Local Flavors in Flagstaff

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Flagstaff:

  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl Of Downtown Flagstaff: $50
  • Haunted Pub Crawl with Guide: $50


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

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 Flagstaff Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Flagstaff?

Flagstaff has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Flagstaff, 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.