A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Canaveral vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a wonder-filled, unique, and iconic town. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Cape Canaveral travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a striking, breathtaking, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Cape Canaveral and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park than Cape Canaveral, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Cape Canaveral is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Cape Canaveral and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is famous for the sunset views. Cape Canaveral is well known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Canaveral is renowned for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Cape Canaveral from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Canaveral is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cape Canaveral. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find respectable options in both Cape Canaveral and Grand Canyon National Park.

Cape Canaveral doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

Most people don't head to Grand Canyon National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

With a similar set of options, notable resorts can be found in both Cape Canaveral and Grand Canyon National Park.

Cape Canaveral has a few great resort options. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Grand Canyon National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.


Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Canaveral is a good destination for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Cape Canaveral offers a nice beach destination. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Grand Canyon National Park for the hiking trails. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Canaveral is a good destination for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cape Canaveral. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Cape Canaveral is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cape Canaveral is very family-friendly. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Cape Canaveral is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.


Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Cape Canaveral is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You won't find any hostels in the area, but you may have some luck finding affordable accommodation nearby.

Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

Is Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.


For even more information, also check out Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cape Canaveral than Grand Canyon National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cape Canaveral, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Cape Canaveral. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grand Canyon National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Cape Canaveral 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 Grand Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Cape Canaveral, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this fascinating destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Cape Canaveral, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cape Canaveral. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Cape Canaveral. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park of Grand Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Grand Canyon National Park or Cape Canaveral?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cape Canaveral Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Canaveral $251
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $251, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $203. 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 Canaveral and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon 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 Canaveral


Hotels in Grand Canyon 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: Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $167
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Vistana Centre Drive: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Pointe Orlando: $252
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Int Airport: $100
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $236
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Altamonte Springs: $269
  • Private SUV Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Theme Parks: $210
  • Private SUV Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO : $215
  • Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer: $155
  • Port Canaveral to MCO Orlando Airport One Way Private Transfers: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Cape Canaveral 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 Canaveral $74
    Grand Canyon National Park $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner included: $170

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $80
  • Canaveral Private Fishing Charter Experience,: $55
  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $56
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • Cocoa Beach: Aerial Adventure Park Ticket: $56
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • Kennedy Space Center from Port Canaveral & return to Cruise Ship : $70
  • Port Canaveral: Airboat Wildlife Tour with Gator Encounter: $97
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • Express Grand Canyon Jeep Tour : $136
  • Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Hiking Tour • South Kaibab Trail: $179
  • Grand Canyon Day Hiking Private Below the Rim Tour: $689
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $199
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $187
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $170
  • Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Canaveral Expensive? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.