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

Should you visit Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan and Cody, Wyoming can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a historic, fascinating, and activity-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cody, Wyoming travel costs.

Ketchikan and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cody, Wyoming. Although Ketchikan 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, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Ketchikan is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. 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 Ketchikan different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Cody, Wyoming specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.


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

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

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

Ketchikan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

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 Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

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

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

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

Many visitors go to Cody, Wyoming to see the historical 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.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.


Is Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

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 Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming?

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is notable for shopping. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cody, Wyoming is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ketchikan. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming More Beautiful?

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

Ketchikan is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a destination known for its beauty.

Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

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


Is Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

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

Ketchikan is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cody, Wyoming is very family-friendly. 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 Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

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

Ketchikan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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 Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

Ketchikan is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Ketchikan is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

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

Is Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Ketchikan
Cody, Wyoming

Ketchikan is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Ketchikan is very walkable. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

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

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

How long in Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ketchikan and Cody, Wyoming. In our opinion, Ketchikan has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ketchikan than Cody, Wyoming. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the scenic destination of Ketchikan. 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.

Even though Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cody, Wyoming has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Cody, Wyoming is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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.

Five days in Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Ketchikan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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.

Cody, Wyoming is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Ketchikan. 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 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cody, Wyoming or Ketchikan?

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

  • Ketchikan Prices
    USA Prices
    Cody, Wyoming Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ketchikan $259
    Cody, Wyoming $191

The average daily cost (per person) in Ketchikan is $259, while the average daily cost in Cody, Wyoming is $191. 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 Ketchikan and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ketchikan $136
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ketchikan $272
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Ketchikan and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan


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: Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ketchikan $39
    Cody, Wyoming $46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

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

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Ketchikan 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
    Ketchikan $92
    Cody, Wyoming $80
Typical Food Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of dining costs in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Slice of Pie & Drink
    $5.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ketchikan

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ketchikan.

  • Alaskan Salmon Cooking Class & Dining Experience: $179

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ketchikan $46
    Cody, Wyoming $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Ticket to Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    $35
  • Duck Tour (one person)
    $38
  • Bear Viewing Tour
    $83

Tours and Activities in Ketchikan

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ketchikan are as follows:

  • “OVER THE TOP TOURS” city highlights, wildlife and more!: $100
  • 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour: $95
  • 2 Hour Custom Wildlife and Historical Tour: $100
  • 2 Hour Private Tour with locals ( Price up to 5): $300
  • 2 hr Private Custom Tour of Ketchikan (14 people) Wildlife + More: $250
  • 2.5 Hour Tour in Ketchikan on the Tongass Trolley: $85
  • 3 Hour Rainforest Walk & Totem Park Wild Wolf Tours: $125
  • Adventure Kart Expedition- Ketchikan, AK: $282
  • Alaska Bigfoot Adventures: $149
  • Alaska Historical Tour with Cruise Hike and Cultural Immersion: $260
  • Alaska Wildlife Safari and Sightseeing Tour: $137
  • Alaska Wildlife Waterfall Tours: $100

Tours and Activities in Cody, Wyoming

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

  • Cody Trolley Tours - Best of the West Trolley Tour: $35
  • Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours BY:Red Canyon River Trips: $56
  • Red Canyon River Trips 7 Mile Whitewater Adventure 3:00PM Daily!: $59
  • Red Canyon River Trips Whitewater 7 Mile Adventure 1:00PM Daily : $59
  • Kicking Red Canyon Wild Mustang Bus Tour Deals 5 PM In Cody : $69
  • Kicking Red Canyon Wild Mustang Bus Tour Deals 8am Daily : $69
  • Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours And Safaris In Cody Wyoming : $89
  • Red Canyon River Trip’s Extended Whitewater Adventure!: $89
  • Private Guided Nature Hiking Experience in Cody Wyoming: $135
  • Red Canyon’s Best Of The Wild West Wild Mustang+Rafting Adventure: $139
  • Rock Climbing Experience: $150
  • Rock Climbing Experience in Cody, Wyoming: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ketchikan $23
    Cody, Wyoming $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Ketchikan

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ketchikan:

  • Distillery Tour and Signature Bottle Infusion Experience: $149
  • Distillery Tour with Infusion Class: $161


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


Which is Bigger, Ketchikan or Cody, Wyoming?

Cody, Wyoming has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Ketchikan 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.