A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Couples, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park?

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 Grand Canyon National Park. 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 relaxing, laid-back, and wealthy beach destination. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Grand Canyon National Park

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

Cape Cod and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Cape Cod is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Cape Cod and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is famous for the sunset views. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Cape Cod different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Cod is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.


Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Cod is not a good area for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Cape Cod doesn't offer many options. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

There are notable resorts to choose from in both Cape Cod and Grand Canyon National Park.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Grand Canyon National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Cod is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Cape Cod for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is great for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Grand Canyon National Park for the hiking trails. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Cod is a very popular place for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Cod is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.


Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

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.

Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Cod and Grand Canyon National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.


Is Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Cod and Grand Canyon National Park are notable when it comes to walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cape Cod due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cape Cod than Grand Canyon National Park. 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 Grand Canyon National Park than Cape Cod. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grand Canyon National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful national park of Grand Canyon National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grand Canyon National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This beach destination offers something for everyone.

Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park 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, Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park is $168. 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 Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Grand Canyon 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 Cod


Hotels in Grand Canyon 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: Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

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

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 3-Day Adventure in Mulu National Park: $298
  • 4 Hour Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Morning Rim Tour: $149
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • Desert View Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $143
  • Full Day Chauffeur for Grand Canyon Tour from inside Grand Canyon: $249
  • Full Day Chauffeur for South Rim Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $249
  • Full-Day Tour to Grand Canyon Coach and River Float: $245
  • Grand Canyon Full Day Small Group Tour: $299
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $179
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $121
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Cod and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Cape Cod 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 Cod Expensive? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.