A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Canaveral vs. Lancaster for Attractions, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Lancaster, 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 iconic, fascinating, and wonder-filled town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Cape Canaveral travel costs.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a picturesque, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Lancaster travel costs.

Cape Canaveral and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Canaveral. Although Cape Canaveral and Lancaster are popular destinations, Cape Canaveral has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Canaveral is very popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, and beaches, while Lancaster attracts visitors for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Lancaster and is known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. It is also well known for The Kennedy Space Center. Lancaster is famous for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Cape Canaveral is an amazing town to visit for its historical sights. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Canaveral has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Lancaster. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.


Is the Food Better in Cape Canaveral or Lancaster? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Lancaster is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lancaster has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Cape Canaveral offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Cape Canaveral or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find reasonable options in both Cape Canaveral and Lancaster.

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 Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Cape Canaveral or Lancaster Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster is not a resort destination.

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.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Cape Canaveral has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Lancaster is a great town for its shopping areas. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lancaster. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Cape Canaveral is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Cape Canaveral or Lancaster More Beautiful?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Lancaster is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cape Canaveral or Lancaster Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Cape Canaveral is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Cape Canaveral is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Cape Canaveral or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Cape Canaveral and Lancaster are both superb to visit as a couple.

Cape Canaveral is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Lancaster is a very popular place to visit for couples. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Lancaster 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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

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 Lancaster a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Lancaster

Lancaster is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Lancaster is generally not a very walkable town. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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 Lancaster Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Canaveral and Lancaster. In our opinion, Lancaster has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lancaster than Cape Canaveral. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 2-3 days is enough time in Lancaster.

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

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


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Lancaster? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Lancaster 2-3

One day in Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Cape Canaveral. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Canaveral has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Lancaster, you'll find food and shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

You'll find museums and food around the unique destination of Cape Canaveral. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Lancaster is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Lancaster?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the iconic town of Cape Canaveral. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

Cape Canaveral is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Lancaster. 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, Lancaster 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
    Lancaster Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Canaveral $251
    Lancaster $221

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $251, while the average daily cost in Lancaster is $221. 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 Lancaster in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Lancaster $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Lancaster $182
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Lancaster

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Lancaster? 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 Lancaster


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: Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Lancaster $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer Port Canaveral to Orlando by Bus or Limo: $292
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Altamonte Springs: $269
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Vistana Centre Drive: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Pointe Orlando: $252
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $236
  • Private SUV Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO : $215
  • Private SUV Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Theme Parks: $210
  • MCO Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Round Trip Private Transfer: $170
  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $167
  • Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer: $155

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

Prices for flights to both Lancaster 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
    Lancaster $91

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

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

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, PA: $62
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $69
  • 3 Hour Retro Music Variety Show Dinner Theater: $75
  • Outdoor Cooking Class Activity with Customizable Recipes: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Lancaster $19

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 Lancaster

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

  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $35
  • Amish Experience Visit-In-Person Tour: $56
  • Amish Farm and House Day Tour from Washington D.C.: $169
  • Amish Farmlands Tour: $27
  • Authentic Tour & Meal with the Amish!: $89
  • Ghost Tour of Lancaster: $25
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • Guided Tour of the Lititz 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $10
  • Historic Lancaster Photo Shoot Tour: $100
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $60
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Lancaster $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lancaster:

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Canaveral and Lancaster, we can see that Cape Canaveral is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Lancaster Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

Lancaster has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Lancaster, 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.


When is the best time to visit Cape Canaveral or Lancaster?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Lancaster in the Summer?

Both Lancaster and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Lancaster in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Lancaster in the Autumn?

Both Lancaster and Cape Canaveral during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Canaveral in October average around 74°F (24°C), and Lancaster averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Lancaster. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Lancaster in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Lancaster. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lancaster in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lancaster can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cape Canaveral is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 60°F (15°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Lancaster in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Lancaster. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the natural beauty during these months.

Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Lancaster in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in April than Lancaster. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Lancaster
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)