A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Minneapolis for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cape Cod and Minneapolis. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing beach destination. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of Cape Cod is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Cape Cod travel costs.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a diverse, dynamic, and innovative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Cape Cod and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Cape Cod and Minneapolis are both popular with visitors, Minneapolis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Minneapolis is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cape Cod is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is more touristy than Minneapolis and is known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Minneapolis is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also home to Mall of America.

How is Cape Cod different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Minneapolis. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Minneapolis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Cod and Minneapolis can be an enjoyable experience.

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Minneapolis makes for a great culinary experience. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Minneapolis for the nightlife scene. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

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

With a selection of resorts, Cape Cod makes a nice vacation spot. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Cape Cod is a very popular place for the beach. However, Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cape Cod. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod has hiking trails worth exploring. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for shopping.

Many people travel to Minneapolis specifically to go shopping. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.


Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis More Beautiful?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Cape Cod is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Cape Cod is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Both Cape Cod and Minneapolis are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Minneapolis is a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Cape Cod is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cape Cod makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Minneapolis is a good beach destination for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.


Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Many students visit Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

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

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Minneapolis offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Cape Cod or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Minneapolis

Cape Cod and Minneapolis are good when it comes to walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Minneapolis is somewhat walkable. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.


For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Cod or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cape Cod due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Minneapolis than Cape Cod 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 Minneapolis.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Minneapolis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Minneapolis 2-4

One day in Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Minneapolis offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach destination offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Minneapolis is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination.

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Minneapolis or Cape Cod?

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

  • Cape Cod Prices
    USA Prices
    Minneapolis Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Cod $227
    Minneapolis $235

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $227, while the average daily cost in Minneapolis is $235. 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 Cod and Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Minneapolis? 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 Cod


Hotels in Minneapolis


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: Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Minneapolis $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

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

  • Rochester: One-Way Shared Transfer to or from MSP: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis and Cape Cod 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 Cod $103
    Minneapolis $70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

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

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Minneapolis $27

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $75
  • Provincetown West End History Tour : $38
  • The Pilgrim Monument Tour- From Harbor to Heights: $52
  • The Tides of Terror A Provincetown Hidden Horrors Tour: $68
  • Cape Cod & Provincetown Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $22
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Chatham Bites and Sights Walking Guided Food Tasting Tour: $98
  • Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour: $58
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Local Legends and Lobster Roll Tour: $92
  • Lucinda Liphol Provincetown Cemetery Tour: $30
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $46

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

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

  • Mall of America: Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket: $31
  • Minneapolis & St. Paul: Private Highlights Riding Tour: $550
  • Mall of America 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $47
  • Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball Game Ticket: $33
  • Mississippi River Cruise with Narration: $28
  • Past and Present Walking Tour: $60
  • Ultimate Minneapolis Walking Tour & Weatherproof Skyway Loop: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Minneapolis $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories: $79
  • Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour in Minneapolis: $100


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Cod and Minneapolis, we can see that Minneapolis 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 Cod Expensive? and Is Minneapolis Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod or Minneapolis?

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 Cod or Minneapolis in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Minneapolis. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cape Cod is generally cooler than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 68°F (20°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Minneapolis this time of the year. In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Cod usually receives less sunshine than Minneapolis during summer. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C) 
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Minneapolis. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Cape Cod is around the same temperature as Minneapolis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In the autumn, Cape Cod often gets more sunshine than Minneapolis. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in October than Minneapolis. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Minneapolis in the Winter?

Both Minneapolis and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

It's quite cold in Minneapolis in the winter. The weather in Cape Cod can be very cold. In the winter, Cape Cod is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Cod in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 15°F (-10°C).

Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Minneapolis during winter. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. In January, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Minneapolis in the Spring?

Both Minneapolis and Cape Cod during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the activities around the city.

In April, Cape Cod is generally cooler than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 45°F (7°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

In Minneapolis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. In the spring, Cape Cod often gets less sunshine than Minneapolis. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 244 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in April than Minneapolis. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Cape Cod

Cape Cod Minneapolis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)