A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Cody, Wyoming for Nightlife, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Should I visit Key West or Cody, Wyoming? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a active, lively, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a fascinating, activity-filled, and historic town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Key West and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Cody, Wyoming are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cody, Wyoming attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than Cody, Wyoming and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Cody, Wyoming is famous for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.

How is Key West different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cody, Wyoming and Key West. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is notable for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Cody, Wyoming offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some interesting local museums around town. One of the most popular is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. There are also several gun museums like the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum and the Cody Firearms Museum. For history, check out the Museum of the Plains Indian or the Cody Heritage Museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Key West or Cody, Wyoming? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Key West and Cody, Wyoming.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Cody, Wyoming is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the restaurants offer a nod to the Wild West theme. There's a soda saloon, barbecue joints, and old fashioned saloons where you can grab a thick steak or fried green tomatoes. Many have fun decor and a family-friendly vibe that sets the atmosphere.

Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Key West is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Key West has a large number of nightlife venues. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Cody, Wyoming has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene, like everything else in town, stays true to the Wild West theme. You'll find cowboys and cowgirls on the dance floor and enjoy live music and cold drinks at the local bar.

Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Resorts?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Key West is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.


Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Key West is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Cody, Wyoming is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Beaches?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Key West is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a beach destination.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Cody, Wyoming is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for its Old Town?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Key West is a very popular place for its historic old town. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Many people head to Cody, Wyoming to see the old town. The historic downtown is small, just a few blocks along Sheridan Avenue, but it's filled with personality. The buildings have local character and highlight the town's past.


Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Cody, Wyoming is a good destination for hiking. It's not hard to get out of town and enjoy some hiking. Trails take you through the local landscapes and sometimes offer you the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Cody, Wyoming is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find quirky shops, local vendors, and sporting equipment stores around town. Whether you want to pick up a souvenir or browse the Wild West paraphernalia, shopping is a fun activity in town.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Cody, Wyoming.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cody, Wyoming. It's a fun stop off for families who are visiting the national parks in the area. There are diverse activities that will give the kids a break from hiking and nature programs. Make sure you check out the Cody Nite Rodeo, the Old Trail Town, and the horseback riding. For a glimpse at what life was like back in the Wild West, check out a Wild Bunch Gunfighters Show.


Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Key West is a very popular place for romance. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Cody, Wyoming makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, this is a fun town to shop, dine, and play. There's horseback riding, historical reenactments, and quirky shops. There's also the opportunity to see wildlife and chat with other travelers.

Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Students?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Key West is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cody, Wyoming is not popular with students.

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Cody, Wyoming is not popular with students.

Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Neither Key West or Cody, Wyoming offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Cody, Wyoming. There's no real public transit through town.


Is Key West or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Key West
Cody, Wyoming

Key West and Cody, Wyoming both are nice when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Cody, Wyoming is a somewhat walkable town. The historic downtown can be explored on foot, but anything outside of town will require a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cody, Wyoming or Key West?

How long in Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Cody, Wyoming. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Cody, Wyoming. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cody, Wyoming.

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

Couples should spend more time in Key West than Cody, Wyoming. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Key West that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West than Cody, Wyoming 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 Key West.


  • How many days in Key West or Cody, Wyoming? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key West 5-7 
    Cody, Wyoming 1-3

One day in Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the active destination of Key West. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Cody, Wyoming is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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


Five days in Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the eclectic destination of Key West. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cody, Wyoming 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 Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful town of Key West. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cody, Wyoming 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 town offers something for everyone.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Cody, Wyoming or Key West?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Key West is $551, while the average daily cost in Cody, Wyoming is $157. 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 Key West and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key West $132
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key West $264
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Key West and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Key West or Cody, Wyoming? 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 Key West


Hotels in Cody, Wyoming


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: Key West Hotel Prices and Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key West $51
    Cody, Wyoming $46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Key West

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Key West:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key West

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Key West:

  • Private Transfer from Key West Int Airport to Key West Port: $38
  • Private Transfer from Key West Cruise Port to Key West hotels: $38
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Key West Airport EYW: $144
  • Marathon/ Key Largo to Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $109
  • Key West to Key West Airport (EYW) - Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • Key West hotels to Key West Int Airport (EYW) Departure Transfer: $64
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West hotels Round-Trip Transfer: $129
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West - Arrival Private Transfer: $64
  • Key West Airport (EYW) to Key West - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129

Is it cheaper to fly into Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Key West 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
    Key West $385
    Cody, Wyoming $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Key West

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

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar & Live Music: $81
  • Key West Sunset Cruise: Dinner and Drinks Included: $93
  • Southernmost Food & Cultural Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $93
  • Historic Seaport Food & Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $93
  • Old Town Secret Food Tour: $107
  • Sunset Sail Full Bar, Live Music & Dinner & Early Morning Snorkeling: $160
  • Snorkeling, Sunset Dinner Cruise & Open Bar: $200

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key West $33
    Cody, Wyoming $33

Tours and Activities in Key West

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

  • Key West Kayak Eco Tour | An Eco-Friendly Adventure Awaits!: $56
  • Private E-Pedicab 1 Hour Sightseeing Ride of Old Town Key West: $100
  • Southernmost Ghosts Tour: $33
  • 2-Hour Live Music Guided Tour in Key West: $35
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Key West's Legends and Sights: $24
  • Adults only Sunset Cruise from Key West with Champagne: $81
  • Bahama Village Walking Tour: $30
  • Best of Key West Walking Tour with Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: $229
  • Best of Key West with Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: $294
  • Champagne Sunset Catamaran Cruise in Key West with Cocktails!: $60
  • Cruise Through Key West's Black History Audio Tour: $11
  • Dark Corners of Key West – Walking Tour: $352

Tours and Activities in Cody, Wyoming

For Cody, Wyoming, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cody Trolley Tours - Best of the West Trolley Tour: $34
  • Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours!: $40
  • Red Canyon River Trip’s all inclusive Half Day Tour! : $85
  • Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tour 5:00: $89
  • Red Canyon Mustang Tour 8am: $89
  • All-Inclusive YNP Lower Loop Tour for 55+Seniors P/U in Cody Wy : $189
  • All-Inclusive Yellowstone”The Volcano” *FAMILY FRIENDLY* Tour: $259
  • From Cody: Full-Day Yellowstone National Park Tour: $260
  • Guided Upper Loop of Yellowstone Tour from Cody, WY: $269
  • Guided Lower Loop of Yellowstone Tour from Cody, WY: $269
  • Yellowstone Nat'l Park Full Day Tour From Cody, WY : $275
  • Wild Mustang Half Day Tour - Cody Wyoming - Private: $298

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key West $16
    Cody, Wyoming $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Key West

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

  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour with Free T-Shirt: $32
  • Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl: $32
  • 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl: $43


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Key West Expensive? and Is Cody, Wyoming Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key West or Cody, Wyoming?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cody, Wyoming. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Cody, Wyoming, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.