A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Acadia National Park vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park, 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.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and picturesque national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Acadia National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Acadia National Park. Although Acadia National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Acadia National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Acadia National Park is more popular for its museums & sights and beaches, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Acadia National Park and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Acadia National Park is popular for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. It is also home to Cadillac Mountain.

How is Acadia National Park different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bryce Canyon National Park and Acadia National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Acadia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.


Is the Food Better in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Foodies will find both Acadia National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park both to be decent destinations.

Acadia National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There's one restaurant in the park, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner between mid-May and October. Many visitors prefer to bring their own food and enjoy meals at one of the six picnic areas.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Neither Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park offer decent nightlife.

Acadia National Park doesn't offer many options. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Bryce Canyon National Park. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park is very good for the beache. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Acadia National Park to enjoy the beach. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Bryce Canyon National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Acadia National Park. With 158 miles of hiking trails, this is a favorite activity for visitors to the park. There are diverse habitats that trails pass through including forests, estuaries, and coastal settings.

Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.


Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and games that kids will enjoy. There are also Ranger Programs and hiking trails that are great for kids of all ages.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place for couples. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Bryce Canyon National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Bryce Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Acadia National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.


Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Acadia National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Public transit is mostly limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Public transit is generally limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Is Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are decent when it comes to walkability.

Acadia National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Acadia National Park?

How long in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Acadia National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Acadia National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Acadia National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bryce Canyon National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Acadia National Park 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Acadia National Park 1-3 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Acadia National Park, many people enjoy the that this scenic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Acadia National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Acadia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This national park offers something for everyone.

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Bryce Canyon National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

A week in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Acadia National Park. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Acadia National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Acadia National Park is $173, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135. 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 Acadia National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park? 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 Acadia National Park


Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park


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: Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Acadia National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Acadia 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
    Acadia National Park $45
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33
Typical Food Prices in Acadia National Park

For Acadia National Park, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for 2
    $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acadia National Park $33
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • 8 Hours Cosmic Ashtray Experience in Escalante: $249
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Audio Tour Guide: $15
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Bryce Canyon Photography Tours: $289
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures All Day Ride: $150
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $110

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


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

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