A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Canyon National Park vs. Cody, Wyoming for Couples, Backpackers, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

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 Grand Canyon National Park and Cody, Wyoming. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a gorgeous, striking, and breathtaking national park. Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a historic, fascinating, and activity-filled town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Cody, Wyoming travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cody, Wyoming. Although Grand Canyon National Park and Cody, Wyoming are both popular with visitors, Cody, Wyoming has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cody, Wyoming is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Grand Canyon National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Cody, Wyoming and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Cody, Wyoming is popular for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill. It is also home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Cody, Wyoming is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cody, Wyoming. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cody, Wyoming 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 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.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Cody, Wyoming is a good destination for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cody, Wyoming. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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 Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

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.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for its Old Town?

Cody, Wyoming is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Grand Canyon National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Grand Canyon National Park. 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.

Cody, Wyoming has hiking trails worth exploring. It's not hard to get out of town and enjoy some hiking. Trails take you through the local landscapes and sometimes offer you the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Cody, Wyoming is a very popular place for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cody, Wyoming. You'll find quirky shops, local vendors, and sporting equipment stores around town. Whether you want to pick up a souvenir or browse the Wild West paraphernalia, shopping is a fun activity in town.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a destination known for its beauty.

Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Cody, Wyoming is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Cody, Wyoming is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cody, Wyoming is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Grand Canyon National Park has plenty to offer. 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!).

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Canyon National Park. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

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

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Grand Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options 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 Cody, Wyoming. There's no real public transit through town.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Grand Canyon National Park and Cody, Wyoming are good when it comes to walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. 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.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cody, Wyoming or Grand Canyon National Park?

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Grand Canyon National Park and Cody, Wyoming. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than in Cody, Wyoming. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cody, Wyoming.

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

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

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

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cody, Wyoming might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Even though Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Since Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This town offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cody, Wyoming is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

When comparing the travel costs between Grand Canyon National Park and Cody, Wyoming, we can see that Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park Expensive? and Is Cody, Wyoming Expensive?.