A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Vail vs. Cody, Wyoming for Families, Couples, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Vail or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Should I visit Vail 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.

Vail

Vail is a vibrant, upscale, and resort-filled ski town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Vail is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Vail travel costs.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a fascinating, activity-filled, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Cody, Wyoming travel costs.

Vail and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vail. Although Vail and Cody, Wyoming are popular destinations, Vail has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vail is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cody, Wyoming attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Vail is more touristy than Cody, Wyoming and is known for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also well known for The Vail Ski Resort. Cody, Wyoming is famous for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.

How is Vail different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Vail or Cody, Wyoming Better for Skiing?

Vail is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a skiing destination.

Vail is among the world's best ski destinations. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Cody, Wyoming is not a skiing destination.

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

Cody, Wyoming is a great town for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Cody, Wyoming offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Vail and Cody, Wyoming offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Vail has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cody, Wyoming area. 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 Vail or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Vail is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Vail has a large number of nightlife venues. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

Cody, Wyoming has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Vail or Cody, Wyoming Better for Music?

Vail is very good for live music. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Cody, Wyoming is not a live music destination.

Is Vail or Cody, Wyoming Better for Resorts?

Vail 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 Vail. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

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

Cody, Wyoming is a popular place for its old town. However, Vail does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Cody, Wyoming. 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.

Vail does not have a historic old town.

Is Vail or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Vail 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 Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

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 Vail or Cody, Wyoming?

If you're looking to go shopping, Vail and Cody, Wyoming both offer plenty of great spots.

Vail is well-known for its shopping. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Is Vail or Cody, Wyoming More Beautiful?

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

Vail is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is a beautiful town that has stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

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

Is Vail or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Vail is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Vail is one of the most popular family destinations. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

Cody, Wyoming is a very kid-friendly ski town. 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 Vail or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Vail 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, Vail has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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

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

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around 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 Vail or Cody, Wyoming Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Vail has some public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

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

Is Vail or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Vail is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vail. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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

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

How long in Vail or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vail and Cody, Wyoming. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vail than in Cody, Wyoming. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Vail, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cody, Wyoming.

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

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

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

One day in Vail or Cody, Wyoming?

Even though Vail is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the small town destination of Cody, Wyoming. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Vail or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vail. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Cody, Wyoming is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Vail or Cody, Wyoming?

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating small town of Cody, Wyoming. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Vail or Cody, Wyoming?

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

The fascinating town of Cody, Wyoming offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Vail or Cody, Wyoming?

Cody, Wyoming has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Vail 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.