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

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Roanoke?

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

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

Roanoke

Roanoke is a scenic, outdoorsy, and laid back town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Cape Canaveral and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Roanoke?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Canaveral. Although Cape Canaveral and Roanoke are popular destinations, Cape Canaveral has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Canaveral is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, and beaches, while Roanoke attracts visitors for its nightlife and hiking. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Roanoke 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. Roanoke is famous for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cape Canaveral is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

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

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Cape Canaveral or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

Roanoke 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 Roanoke has a few options to choose from. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

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 Roanoke Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Roanoke Better for Beaches?

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

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

Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

Roanoke is a great town for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Roanoke for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Roanoke?

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

Roanoke is a great destination for shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Cape Canaveral or Roanoke Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

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

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Cape Canaveral or Roanoke Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral and Roanoke are both very good to visit as a couple.

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.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

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

Roanoke is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

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 Roanoke Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Roanoke 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 Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

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 Roanoke a more walkable city?

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

Roanoke is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

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 Roanoke Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roanoke or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Roanoke?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Canaveral and Roanoke. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Roanoke 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 Roanoke.

One day in Cape Canaveral or Roanoke?

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 Roanoke, you'll find nightlife and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Roanoke?

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.

Roanoke 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 Roanoke?

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 Roanoke. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cape Canaveral or Roanoke?

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 nightlife and shopping when visiting the town of Roanoke. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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

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

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 Roanoke Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Roanoke?

Roanoke has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Roanoke, 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 Roanoke?

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 Roanoke in the Summer?

Both Roanoke and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Roanoke for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Roanoke in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Roanoke fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Roanoke. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Roanoke in the Autumn?

Both Roanoke and Cape Canaveral during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Roanoke because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Roanoke. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Canaveral in October average around 74°F (24°C), and Roanoke averages at about 60°F (16°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Roanoke. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Roanoke in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Roanoke. The winter months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Roanoke this time of year.

It's quite cold in Roanoke in the winter. In January, Cape Canaveral is generally much warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 60°F (15°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 38°F (3°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Roanoke in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Roanoke. The beaches are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year.

Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Roanoke in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Roanoke fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in April than Roanoke. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral.

Typical Weather for Roanoke and Cape Canaveral