A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Denver for Food, Families, Couples, and Hiking

Should you visit Cape Cod or Denver?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cape Cod and Denver. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a laid-back, wealthy, and maritime beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Denver

Denver is a accessible, sprawling, and park-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Cape Cod and Denver: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Denver?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Denver. Although Cape Cod and Denver are both popular with visitors, Denver has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Denver is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Cape Cod is known for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is more touristy than Denver and is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Denver is popular for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area. It is also home to Red Rocks Park.

How is Cape Cod different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denver and Cape Cod. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cape Cod or Denver Better for Skiing?

Cape Cod
Denver

Denver is a good destination for skiing. However, Cape Cod is not a skiing destination.

Head to Denver for some great skiing and other winter activities. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Cape Cod is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Denver?

Cape Cod
Denver

Denver is adequate for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Denver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Denver

Cape Cod is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cape Cod. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Cape Cod or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Denver

Denver is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Denver has a few options to choose from. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.


Is Cape Cod or Denver Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Denver

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Denver is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Cape Cod makes a nice vacation spot. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Denver is not a resort destination.

Is Cape Cod or Denver Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Denver

Cape Cod is a well-known place for the beache. However, Denver is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cape Cod. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Denver is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Denver Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Denver

Hiking trails can be found around both Cape Cod and Denver, and they are good.

Cape Cod offers some nice hiking trails. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Denver is a good destination for hiking. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.


Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Denver?

Cape Cod
Denver

Cape Cod is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Cape Cod is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Is Cape Cod or Denver Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Denver

Cape Cod is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cape Cod is a very kid-friendly beach destination. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Denver is a family-friendly beach destination. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Is Cape Cod or Denver Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Denver

Cape Cod is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Denver is a good beach destination for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.


Is Cape Cod or Denver Better for Students?

Cape Cod
Denver

Denver is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Denver. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

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

Cape Cod
Denver

Denver is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Denver offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Cape Cod or Denver a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Denver

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Denver is not a very walkable beach destination. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Denver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denver or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Denver?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Cod and Denver. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Denver. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 2-3 days is enough time in Denver.

Families should spend more time in Cape Cod than Denver. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cape Cod, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cape Cod than Denver. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cape Cod that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denver than Cape Cod 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 Denver.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Denver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Denver 2-3

One day in Cape Cod or Denver?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Denver offers skiing and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Denver?

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Denver is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Denver, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cape Cod or Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Denver is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Cape Cod or Denver?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Denver is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denver or Cape Cod?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $183, while the average daily cost in Denver is $218. 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 Cod and Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Denver? 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 Cod


Hotels in Denver


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: Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Denver $101

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Denver Airport Transfer To/From Aspen for 6-14 Sprinter Van: $1,950
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Private Transfer: $295
  • Arrival Private Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by SUV: $290
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Steamboat - Arrival Private Transfer: $284
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $252
  • Private One Way Transfer From and To Denver Colorado: $200
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Breckenridge - Arrival Private Transfer: $194
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Keystone resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $175
  • Round trip transfer in private minivan from-to Denver Intl. Airport to Downtown: $173
  • Arrival Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by Luxury Car: $161
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury SUV: $136
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury Van: $136

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver and Cape Cod 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 Cod $60
    Denver $42

Typical Food Prices in Denver

Some typical examples of dining costs in Denver are as follows:


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Denver.

  • RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $79
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $79
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Denver $52

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149

Tours and Activities in Denver

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Denver are as follows:

  • Shared Golden's History Wagon Ride Tour in Colorado: $65
  • Small-Group Cocktail Tour in Denver: $99
  • 1.5 Hour RiNo Art District Walking Tour: $28
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour LoDo Historic Walking Tour in Denver: $28
  • Beginner Rock Climbing Tour: $200
  • Best of Denver Tour: $30
  • Best of Denver Tour: $64
  • Bike and Booze Tour of RiNo & Downtown: $76
  • Breckenridge Ultimate Full Day Mountain Tour from Denver: $139
  • Cheesman Park Ghost Tour: $28
  • Colorado Gold Rush Mountain and Mine Half-Day Tour from Denver: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Denver $5.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

Also in Denver, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert : $74


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Cod and Denver, we can see that Denver is more expensive. And not only is Cape Cod much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cape Cod would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cape Cod 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 Denver would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Denver than you might in Cape Cod.

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