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

Should you visit Houston or Cape Cod?

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 Houston and Cape Cod. 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.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a laid-back, wealthy, and maritime beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and food.

Houston and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Houston or Cape Cod?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Cape Cod are both popular with visitors, Houston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Houston is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Cape Cod is known for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also home to The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cape Cod is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Houston or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston or Cape Cod Better for Music?

Houston is a good destination for its music scene. However, Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

Is Houston or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod is a good destination for its resorts. However, Houston 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.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod is well known for the beache. However, Houston 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Houston or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

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.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Cape Cod?

Cape Cod is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Houston or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Both Houston and Cape Cod are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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.

Is Houston or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Cape Cod is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Cape Cod frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Houston or Cape Cod Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Cape Cod.

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

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.

Is Houston or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Cape Cod is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known 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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Houston?

How long in Houston or Cape Cod?

Both Houston and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Houston. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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

One day in Houston or Cape Cod?

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Houston or Cape Cod?

Houston 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 Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Houston or Cape Cod?

Houston 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.

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Houston or Cape Cod?

Houston 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

When is the best time to visit Houston or Cape Cod?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Houston or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Houston during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

In the summer, Houston is a little warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the summer temperatures in Houston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Cape Cod. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Cape Cod. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Houston is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 71°F (22°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Houston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cape Cod. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Houston or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Houston as well as Cape Cod. Many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Cape Cod can get quite cold in the winter. Houston is much warmer than Cape Cod in the winter. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Houston usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Cape Cod in the Spring?

Both Cape Cod and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Houston is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the spring temperatures in Houston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In April, Houston usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Houston