A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Canaveral vs. Zion National Park for Attractions, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park, 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. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and breathtaking park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Cape Canaveral and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zion National Park than Cape Canaveral, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zion National Park is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Cape Canaveral is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Zion National Park is more touristy than Cape Canaveral and is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Also, Zion National Park is famous for Angels Landing. Cape Canaveral is well known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Cape Canaveral is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Cape Canaveral that are not to be missed. 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.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.


Is the Food Better in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Cape Canaveral is a town with a few options for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Cape Canaveral is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

Cape Canaveral has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Zion National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.


Is Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Zion National Park 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.

Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Cape Canaveral is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.


Is Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zion National Park is very family-friendly. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Is Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Cape Canaveral and Zion National Park are both superb 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.

Zion National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Is Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Zion National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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 Zion National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its public transit.

While Zion National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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 Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Zion National Park

Neither Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park are walkable places.

Cape Canaveral is not a very walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.

Zion National Park is not a walkable town. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park?

Both Cape Canaveral and Zion National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zion National Park than in Cape Canaveral. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cape Canaveral than Zion National Park. 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 Zion National Park. 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 Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park.


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the wonder-filled destination of Cape Canaveral. This town offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the museums. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Zion National Park, you'll find . 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 Zion National Park?

Cape Canaveral is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the unique town of Cape Canaveral. Most people visit for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Canaveral has to offer.

Zion National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Cape Canaveral. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Five days 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Zion National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park?

Cape Canaveral is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In Zion National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


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, Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park is $119. 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 Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Zion National Park? 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 Zion National Park


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: Zion National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Zion National Park $30

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 Zion National Park?

Prices for flights to both Zion National Park 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
    Zion National Park $37

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
    Zion National Park $26

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 Zion National Park

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

  • Private Sunset Guided Tour to Great Chamber by Four-Wheel Drive: $125
  • Slot Canyon Tour & Sandboarding UTV Adventure: $128
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $100
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $98
  • Campfire S'mores and Stars Tour in Kanab: $65
  • East Zion 2 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $174
  • East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour: $169
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $109
  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $19
  • East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour: $49
  • Great Chamber/Peekaboo Slot Canyon UTV Tour 4hrs: $169

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Zion National Park $8.28


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

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 Zion National Park Expensive?.