A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Santa Barbara vs. Cody, Wyoming for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming? 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.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a affluent, scenic, and stunning coastal town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Santa Barbara is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a activity-filled, historic, and fascinating town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Cody, Wyoming travel costs.

Santa Barbara and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santa Barbara than Cody, Wyoming, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santa Barbara is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cody, Wyoming is more popular for its small town charm. Santa Barbara is well known for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. Also, Santa Barbara is famous for The Old Mission Santa Barbara. Cody, Wyoming is well known for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.

How is Santa Barbara different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming.

Santa Barbara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

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.

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

Santa Barbara is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Santa Barbara. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

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 Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Both Santa Barbara and Cody, Wyoming are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

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.

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for Resorts?

Santa Barbara is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Santa Barbara. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Cody, Wyoming is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Santa Barbara is a very popular vacation destination. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Cody, Wyoming is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the notable old towns in both Santa Barbara and Cody, Wyoming.

Santa Barbara offers a nice historic old town area. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

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.

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara specifically for its hiking. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

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 Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Santa Barbara. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

Cody, Wyoming is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a destination known for its beauty.

Santa Barbara is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

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

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming.

Santa Barbara is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

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.

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara 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, Santa Barbara has plenty to offer. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

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 Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cody, Wyoming is not popular with students.

Santa Barbara is very popular with students. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Cody, Wyoming is not popular with students.

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

Santa Barbara is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Santa Barbara has some public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

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

Is Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara 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.

Santa Barbara is very walkable. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

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 Santa Barbara Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cody, Wyoming or Santa Barbara?

How long in Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Santa Barbara and Cody, Wyoming. In our opinion, Santa Barbara has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Santa Barbara than Cody, Wyoming. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Santa Barbara, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cody, Wyoming.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the pristine destination of Santa Barbara. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

A weekend in Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cody, Wyoming. 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.

Five days in Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the wealthy destination of Santa Barbara. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal 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. 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.

A week in Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful coastal town of Santa Barbara. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cody, Wyoming is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

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 comparing the travel costs between Santa Barbara and Cody, Wyoming, we can see that Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara Expensive? and Is Cody, Wyoming Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santa Barbara or Cody, Wyoming?

Santa Barbara has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Cody, Wyoming. When comparing the sizes of Santa Barbara 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.