A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Cody, Wyoming for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Cody, Wyoming can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a historic, fascinating, and activity-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Washington and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Cody, Wyoming are both popular with visitors, Washington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cody, Wyoming is known for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House. Cody, Wyoming is popular for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.

How is Washington different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Washington is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cody, Wyoming can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.


Is Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for Theater?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Washington is a very popular place for theatre. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a theatre destination.

Washington has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Cody, Wyoming is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Washington is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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 Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

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

Washington has a large number of nightlife venues. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for Music?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Washington is very good for live music. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Cody, Wyoming is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for its Old Town?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is very good for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

Cody, Wyoming is a good destination for visiting its 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is very good for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.


Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Cody, Wyoming both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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.

Is Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for Christmas?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Washington is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cody, Wyoming does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Cody, Wyoming does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Cody, Wyoming.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Cody, Wyoming is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

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

Washington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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 Washington or Cody, Wyoming Better for Students?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Washington is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cody, Wyoming is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Cody, Wyoming is not popular with students.

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

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Washington is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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


Is Washington or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Washington
Cody, Wyoming

Washington 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 Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cody, Wyoming or Washington?

How long in Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington 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 Washington.


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

One day in Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cody, Wyoming, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. 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.

Even though Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city 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, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cody, Wyoming or Washington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, 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 Washington and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Washington and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Washington 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 Washington


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Cody, Wyoming $46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Washington, DC: Airport Transfer to/from DCA or IAD: $350
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • Washington to Newark Airport Departure Private Transfer: $187
  • Washington to NY Kennedy Airport(JFK)- Departure Private Transfer: $199
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA): Transfer to Washington: $173
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $52
  • Washington DC: Private Transfer to Airports or Baltimore: $160
  • Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110
  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Washington Airport (DCA) to Washington RoundTrip Private Transfer: $116

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Washington 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
    Washington $38
    Cody, Wyoming $47
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $69
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
  • Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $85
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $97
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise: $144
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $151
  • Private Traditional Filipino Cooking Class Near Washington DC : $154

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Cody, Wyoming $33

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • See DC In A Day: Guided Small Group Ultimate Day Tour : $99
  • 2 For 1! DC Highlights & Arlington Cemetery Tour Bundle: $84
  • 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill: $55
  • 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour in Washington DC: $25
  • 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour : $75
  • 2-Hour National Mall Walking Tour from Washington DC: $25
  • 4 Hours Washington Tour with Boat Cruise: $169
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Washington DC's Monumental Marvels: $25
  • Admission & Guided Tour of Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria: $99
  • African American History Private Tour w/ Museum Entry: $450
  • African American History Tour with Museum Admission: $89
  • African American History Tour with Museum of African American History Ticket: $90

Tours and Activities in Cody, Wyoming

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Cody, Wyoming $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.: $59
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
  • Full-Day Private Virginia Wine Tour Experience from Washington : $242
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


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


Which is Bigger, Washington or Cody, Wyoming?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Cody, Wyoming. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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.