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

Should you visit Orlando or Cape Cod?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Cape Cod? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and food. See Orlando travel costs.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a relaxing, laid-back, and wealthy beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches. See Cape Cod travel costs.

Orlando and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Cape Cod?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Orlando than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, nightlife, and resorts, while Cape Cod is more popular for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Orlando is more touristy than Cape Cod and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is famous for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Orlando different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Cape Cod Better for Theater?

Orlando is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Cape Cod is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Cape Cod is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Orlando and Cape Cod.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cape Cod. 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.

Is Orlando or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

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

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

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 Orlando or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Is Orlando or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod is great for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod is a popular place for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Cape Cod?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Cape Cod both offer plenty of superb spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Cape Cod is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Is Orlando or Cape Cod More Beautiful?

Cape Cod is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Orlando or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Orlando or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Cape Cod is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Cape Cod Better for Students?

Orlando is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

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

Orlando and Cape Cod both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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 Orlando or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Cape Cod is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. 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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Cape Cod?

Both Orlando and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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

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

One day in Orlando or Cape Cod?

The city of Orlando offers food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Cape Cod?

Orlando is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Orlando or Cape Cod?

Orlando is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Cape Cod?

Orlando is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Orlando Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.

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

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 Orlando or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 82°F (28°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Cape Cod. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orlando or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

Orlando is much warmer than Cape Cod in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cape Cod. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Cape Cod. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cape Cod. In the winter, Orlando is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orlando or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Cape Cod. Also, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Orlando is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Cape Cod. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Orlando