A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Cody, Wyoming for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a stunning, vibrant, and picture-perfect town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a activity-filled, historic, and fascinating town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Playa del Carmen and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Cody, Wyoming, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Playa del Carmen is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cody, Wyoming is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Cody, Wyoming and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Cody, Wyoming is well known for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.


Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Cody, Wyoming can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Playa del Carmen area. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cody, Wyoming. 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 Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Playa del Carmen just to party. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

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 Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Playa del Carmen is a perfect choice. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.


Is Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen is not to be missed. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Cody, Wyoming is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Playa del Carmen is a very popular vacation destination. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Cody, Wyoming is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for its Old Town?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Cody, Wyoming offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.


Is Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

If you're looking to go hiking, Playa del Carmen and Cody, Wyoming both have notable trails.

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for hiking. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cody, Wyoming. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cody, Wyoming. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Playa del Carmen. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular family destinations. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Cody, Wyoming is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

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 Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Cody, Wyoming is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of campgrounds and cheap motels in the area.

Is Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Playa del Carmen has some public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cody, Wyoming. There's no real public transit through town.


Is Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen
Cody, Wyoming

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Playa del Carmen. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Cody, Wyoming is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cody, Wyoming or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen.


  • How many days in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming? Ideal Length of Stay
    Playa del Carmen 3-7 
    Cody, Wyoming 1-3

One day in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Playa del Carmen. 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. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Playa del Carmen. Most people come for the beaches. 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 small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picture-perfect destination of Playa del Carmen. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful town of Playa del Carmen. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cody, Wyoming or Playa del Carmen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Playa del Carmen is $81, 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 Playa del Carmen and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Playa del Carmen $40
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Playa del Carmen $80
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Playa del Carmen and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen


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: Playa del Carmen Hotel Prices and Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Playa del Carmen $24
    Cody, Wyoming $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Playa del Carmen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Playa del Carmen:

  • Wedding Transfers Services in Round Trip Playa del Carmen: $180
  • Transfer in Private vehicle from Akumal City - Cancun Airport (CUN) : $74
  • Tour Bacalar Ponton with Transfer from Cancun & Playa del Carmen : $147
  • Shared roundtrip transfer from Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen: $71
  • Shared Transfer Cancun Airport - Playa del Carmen: $31
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer Playa del Carmen from CUN: $175
  • Private Transfer: Playa del Carmen to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $91
  • Private Transfer: Akumal to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $115
  • Private Transfer to/from Akumal Hotels: $79
  • Private Transfer to Xel-Há Park from Playa del Carmen: $53
  • Private Transfer to Xcaret Park from Playa del Carmen: $60
  • Private Transfer to Xavage / Xoximilco: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Playa del Carmen 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
    Playa del Carmen $24
    Cody, Wyoming $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Playa del Carmen

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Playa del Carmen.

  • Cenotes by Bike and Mayan Cooking Class Half-Day Guided Tour: $60
  • Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Playa del Carmen Food Tour: $71
  • Playa Del Carmen Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $75
  • Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour: $78
  • Playa del Camen Vegan Mexican Food Tour: $84
  • Mexican Cooking Class: $100
  • PDC Traditional Mexican Cooking Experience: $104
  • Authentic Mexican Cooking Class in Playa del Carmen: $120
  • Isa’s Authentic Mexican Cooking Class: $120
  • Riviera Maya: Sunset Cruise with Beach Dinner and Open Bar: $157
  • Playa del Carmen Mexican Gourmet Food Tour: $211

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Playa del Carmen $17
    Cody, Wyoming $33

Tours and Activities in Playa del Carmen

Here are a few actual costs in Playa del Carmen for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Electric fatbike ecological tour in the Mayan lands: $150
  • Tulum Ruins, Turtle Sightseeing & Underground Cenote from Tulum: $140
  • 3 Hour Tour ATV Single with Underground River from Tulum : $118
  • 3D Museum of Wonders Admission Ticket: $42
  • A Lifetime Experience: Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour: $250
  • ATV Adventure with Ziplines Cenote from Playa del Carmen: $75
  • ATV Ride and Secret Caves Tour from Playa del Carmen: $80
  • ATV Shared & Ziplines Adventure in Tulum Jungle from Riviera Maya: $133
  • ATV Shared, Cavern & Ziplines -Jungle Adventure from Riviera Maya: $158
  • ATV Tour in Playa del Carmen with Zip Lines: $73
  • ATV Xtreme & Snorkel Experience: $138
  • ATV Xtreme and Zipline Adventure from Riviera Maya: $119

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
    Playa del Carmen $21
    Cody, Wyoming $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Playa del Carmen

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Playa del Carmen:

  • Tour to the Brewery with Tasting and Fifth Avenue: $109


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

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


Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Cody, Wyoming?

Playa del Carmen has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Cody, Wyoming. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen 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.