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

Should you visit Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. Zion National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a historic, fascinating, and activity-filled town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Cody, Wyoming travel costs.

Zion 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 Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Zion National Park and Cody, Wyoming are both popular with visitors, Zion National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zion National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cody, Wyoming is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Zion National Park is more touristy than Cody, Wyoming and is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also home to Angels Landing. Cody, Wyoming is popular for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill.

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

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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cody, Wyoming can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.


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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Cody, Wyoming offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Zion National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.

Zion National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Cody, Wyoming is not a resort destination.


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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Zion National Park 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.

Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Zion 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 Zion National Park specifically for its hiking. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

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 Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is well known for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known 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 in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.


Is Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming More Beautiful?

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

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

Zion National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

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

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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Zion National Park and Cody, Wyoming are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

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 Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Zion 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.

Zion National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Zion 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 Zion National Park. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Zion 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.

Zion National Park has some public transit options. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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

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

Zion National Park
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Zion National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.


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

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

How long in Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

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

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


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

One day in Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Zion National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Cody, Wyoming is a popular place to visit. Even though Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cody, Wyoming has to offer.

Five days in Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned destination of Zion National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This 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.

Since Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Zion National Park or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Zion National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


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

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

  • Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Cody, Wyoming Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Zion National Park $146
    Cody, Wyoming $191

The average daily cost (per person) in Zion National Park is $146, 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 Zion National Park and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zion National Park $60
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zion National Park $120
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Zion National Park and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Zion 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 Zion 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: Zion National Park Hotel Prices and Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zion National Park $30
    Cody, Wyoming $46

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

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Zion 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
    Zion National Park $64
    Cody, Wyoming $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zion National Park $26
    Cody, Wyoming $33

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Zion National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Private Sunset Guided Tour to Great Chamber by Four-Wheel Drive: $125
  • Slot Canyon Tour & Sandboarding UTV Adventure: $129
  • 2-Hour Private Light Painting Experience on the Sand Dunes: $299
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $125
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105
  • Coral Pink Sand Dunes Ride Climb and Rappel Adventure: $139
  • East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $174
  • East Zion Brushy Cove Jeep Tour: $117
  • East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour: $201
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $130
  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $22

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
    Zion National Park $8.28
    Cody, Wyoming $18


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zion National Park and Cody, Wyoming, we can see that Cody, Wyoming is more expensive. And not only is Zion National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zion National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zion 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 Zion National Park.

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