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

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Memphis?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Memphis, 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 iconic, fascinating, and wonder-filled town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative 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 Memphis: 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • 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 Memphis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Memphis. Although Cape Canaveral and Memphis are popular destinations, Memphis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Memphis is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Cape Canaveral attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Memphis and is known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Cape Canaveral is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Canaveral has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.


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

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Canaveral and Memphis 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.

Memphis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Is Cape Canaveral or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

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

The nightlife in Memphis has something for everybody. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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 Memphis Better for Music?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

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

Memphis has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Cape Canaveral is not a live music destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Memphis Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis 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.

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Memphis Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Memphis 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.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Memphis?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

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.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.


Is Cape Canaveral or Memphis Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Cape Canaveral is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Cape Canaveral or Memphis Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Cape Canaveral is a great town for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Cape Canaveral is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Cape Canaveral or Memphis Better for Students?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Memphis is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Canaveral is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Cape Canaveral is not popular with students.


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

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

Memphis 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 Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

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 Memphis a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Memphis

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

Memphis is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

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 Memphis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Memphis?

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

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


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

One day in Cape Canaveral or Memphis?

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 Memphis, you'll find museums and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Memphis?

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.

Memphis 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 Memphis?

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 Memphis. 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 Memphis?

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 food and museums when visiting the city of Memphis. 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, Memphis 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 Memphis is $167. 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 Memphis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Memphis $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Memphis $168
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Memphis

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Memphis? 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 Memphis


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: Memphis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Memphis $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $282
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport: $282
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Windermere: $270
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Reunion: $270
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Ocoee: $254
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Celebration: $247
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Altamonte Springs: $246
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Sand Lake: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Pointe Orlando: $232
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $216

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339
  • Memphis Airport MEM to Hot Springs Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $284
  • Memphis Airport Private Black Car Transfer: $278
  • Private Transfer from Memphis International Airport to Memphis : $147
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Hot Springs Resorts Arrival Transfer: $142
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133
  • Greater Memphis To MEM International Airport - Luxury Transfer: $95
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis City to Memphis Airport (MEM) Departure Private Transfer: $67
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Memphis?

Prices for flights to both Memphis 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
    Memphis $43

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

Typical Food Prices in Memphis

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Memphis $45

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 Memphis

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

  • 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour: $72
  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis: $12
  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure - Memphis: $44
  • Beale Street & Sun Studio: Private Half-Day Walking Tour: $160
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Best of Memphis Walking Tour: $149
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Party Experience - Public: $35
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Private Party Experience: $430
  • Elvis Presley's Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis: $111
  • Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour: $150
  • From Tupelo Elvis Presley's Upbringing Tour: $102

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Memphis $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69


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

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 Memphis Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Memphis?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Memphis, 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 Memphis?

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 Memphis in the Summer?

Both Memphis and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Memphis this time of year.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Memphis in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Memphis fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Memphis. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Memphis 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Memphis in the Autumn?

Both Memphis and Cape Canaveral during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Memphis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Canaveral in October average around 74°F (24°C), and Memphis averages at about 64°F (18°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Memphis. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Memphis in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Memphis. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Memphis in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives around the same amount of rain as Memphis. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Memphis in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Memphis. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Memphis for the activities around the city during these months.

Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Memphis in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite rainy in Memphis. Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in April than Memphis. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Typical Weather for Memphis and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Memphis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)