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

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Phoenix?

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

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

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Canaveral and Phoenix: 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
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Phoenix?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Canaveral. Although Cape Canaveral and Phoenix are popular destinations, Cape Canaveral has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Canaveral is very popular for its museums, resorts, and beaches, while Phoenix attracts visitors for its nightlife and hiking. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Phoenix and is known 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. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Cape Canaveral is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.


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

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Canaveral and Phoenix 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.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Cape Canaveral or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Phoenix 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 Phoenix has a few options to choose from. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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 Phoenix Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

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

Phoenix is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Phoenix Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Cape Canaveral is a town with good options for the beach. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Phoenix is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Phoenix has hiking trails worth exploring. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Phoenix?

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

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

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.


Is Cape Canaveral or Phoenix Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Cape Canaveral is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Cape Canaveral or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Cape Canaveral is a great town for couples. Also, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get 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 Phoenix a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Phoenix

Phoenix is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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 Phoenix Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Phoenix?

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

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


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

One day in Cape Canaveral or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix, you'll find museums and nightlife. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix. 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix. 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, Phoenix 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 Phoenix is $238. 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 Phoenix in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Phoenix $144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Phoenix $288
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Phoenix

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Phoenix? 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 Phoenix


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: Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Phoenix $39

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 Phoenix

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

  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $140
  • Phoenix International Airport (PHX) - Private transfer From/to Hotels: $118
  • Arrival Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix City : $117
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Departure Private Transfer Phoenix City to Phoenix Airport PHX : $110
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Business Car: $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Phoenix?

Prices for flights to both Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $52

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 Phoenix

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


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Awesome French Crêpes Cooking Class: $75
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $92
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $92
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Quiche Lorraine French Cooking Class in Scottsdale: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Phoenix $40

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 Phoenix

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

  • 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: $89
  • 2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $115
  • 2-Hour Arizona Desert Guided E-Bike Tour: $135
  • 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure: $100
  • 3 Cities & Nature Tour. Shop, Art, History, Food. Scottsdale, Phoenix, & Tempe.: $168
  • 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Tour in Sonoran Desert: $219
  • Adventure Yoga Experience on Camelback Mountain: $75
  • Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour: $160
  • Black Ops Experience: $259
  • Boat Cruise in Lake Pleasant Arizona: $89

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Phoenix $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

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

  • Scottsdale Bar Hunt: Scorching Scottsdale Bar Crawl: $12
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $55
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $155
  • Ghost town of Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour: $215


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Phoenix for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. Cape Canaveral is cooler than Phoenix in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Phoenix in the Autumn?

Both Phoenix and Cape Canaveral during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Phoenix in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Phoenix. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Canaveral in October average around 74°F (24°C), and Phoenix averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Phoenix. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 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) 
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Phoenix in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Phoenix. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Phoenix for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Cape Canaveral is generally around the same temperature as Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 60°F (15°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Phoenix in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Phoenix. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the beaches during these months.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Phoenix in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in April than Phoenix. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 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) 
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Phoenix
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm)