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

Should you visit Cape Cod or Zion 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 Zion 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 maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for hiking, shopping, 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 Cod and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zion National Park than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zion National Park is better known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cape Cod is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Zion National Park is more touristy than Cape Cod 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 Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Cape Cod 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 Cod. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Zion National Park?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

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

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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Cape Cod is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. 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 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 Cod or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Neither Cape Cod or Zion National Park offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cape Cod This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

People don't go to Zion National Park for the nightlife. Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Cape Cod or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

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

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

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 Cod or Zion National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Cape Cod is well known for its beaches. However, Zion National Park 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.

Zion National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Zion National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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 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 Zion National Park?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Cape Cod is well known for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

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 Cod or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Both Cape Cod and Zion National Park are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. 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.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Cod or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Cape Cod and Zion National Park both great destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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 Cod or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

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

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Zion National Park 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 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 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 Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Zion National Park

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. 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.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable beach destination. 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 Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cape Cod or Zion National Park?

Both Cape Cod and Zion National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cape Cod has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cape Cod than Zion National Park. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

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


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Cape Cod or Zion National Park?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This beach destination offers something for everyone. 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 beautiful park of Zion National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Zion National Park?

Cape Cod is a popular place to visit. Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Zion National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cape Cod or Zion National Park?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer.

Zion National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zion National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cape Cod or Zion National Park?

Cape Cod is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Zion National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zion National Park has to offer. This 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, Zion 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 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 Cod and Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod 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 Cod


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 Cod $50
    Zion National Park $30

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

Prices for flights to both Zion 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
    Zion National Park $37

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Zion National Park $26

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 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 Cod $19
    Zion National Park $8.28


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Cod and Zion National Park, we can see that Cape Cod 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 Cod would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Cod 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 Cod Expensive? and Is Zion National Park Expensive?.