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

Should you visit Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Should I visit Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a popular, world-famous, and stunning national park. Yosemite National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Both Cody, Wyoming and Yosemite National Park have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Yosemite National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cody, Wyoming is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Cody, Wyoming and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Cody, Wyoming is well known for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.

How is Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

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 Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Resorts?

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.


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

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

Cody, Wyoming offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

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 Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming More Beautiful?

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

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

Yosemite National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

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

Is Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming.

Yosemite National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

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 Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

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

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

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

Yosemite National Park has some public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

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

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

Yosemite National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Cody, Wyoming is a somewhat walkable town. The historic downtown can be explored on foot, but anything outside of town will require a car.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

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

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


  • How many days in Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yosemite National Park 3-7 
    Cody, Wyoming 1-3

One day in Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the popular destination of Yosemite National Park. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

Cody, Wyoming might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A weekend in Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yosemite National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

Even though Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-famous destination of Yosemite National Park. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This national park 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cody, Wyoming. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Yosemite National Park. 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.

Cody, Wyoming is a fun place to experience. Cody, Wyoming is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cody, Wyoming or Yosemite National Park?

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

  • Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Cody, Wyoming Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Yosemite National Park $158
    Cody, Wyoming $191

The average daily cost (per person) in Yosemite National Park is $158, 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 Yosemite National Park and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yosemite National Park $64
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yosemite National Park $128
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Yosemite National Park and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park


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: Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices and Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yosemite National Park $41
    Cody, Wyoming $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Yosemite National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Yosemite National Park 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
    Yosemite National Park $69
    Cody, Wyoming $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yosemite National Park $19
    Cody, Wyoming $33

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Family Explorers: Customizable Private Tour: $399
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

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
    Yosemite National Park $11
    Cody, Wyoming $18


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Yosemite National Park Expensive? and Is Cody, Wyoming Expensive?.