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

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Denali 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 Denali 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.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a rugged, spectacular, and epic 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 Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Acadia National Park or Denali National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Acadia National Park. Although Acadia National Park and Denali 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 beaches and hiking, while Denali National Park is known for its resorts, shopping, and impressive beauty. 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. Denali National Park is popular for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is Acadia National Park different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denali 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 Denali National Park?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

You'll find a number of decent museums and attractions in both Denali National Park and Acadia National Park.

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.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.


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

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Foodies will find both Acadia National Park and Denali 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.

Denali National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Acadia National Park or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Neither Acadia National Park or Denali 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 Denali National Park. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Acadia National Park or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Denali National Park has a few great resort options. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Denali National Park Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Acadia National Park is very good for the beache. However, Denali 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.

Denali National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Acadia National Park or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Acadia National Park is a great national park for hiking. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Denali National Park?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

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

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

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 Denali National Park Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Acadia National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Acadia National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is Acadia National Park or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

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

Denali National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive 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 Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Denali 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 Denali National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

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 Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Acadia National Park and Denali 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 Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Is Acadia National Park or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Denali National Park

Acadia National Park is adequate for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Denali National Park is not a walkable national park. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

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

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Acadia National Park?

How long in Acadia National Park or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Acadia National Park or Denali National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Denali National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Acadia National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denali 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 Denali National Park.


  • How many days in Acadia National Park or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Acadia National Park 1-3 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Acadia National Park or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Acadia 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. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Acadia National Park has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Denali National Park. 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 Denali National Park?

Acadia 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 national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Denali National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Denali National Park?

Many people visit Acadia National Park for five days. You'll find around the beautiful national park of Acadia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people visit Denali National Park for five days. You'll find around the beautiful park of Denali National Park. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Acadia National Park or Denali National Park?

The beautiful destination of Acadia National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The vast destination of Denali National Park offers . It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali 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 Denali National Park is $218. 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 Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Acadia National Park or Denali 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 Denali 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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denali National Park

Also for Denali National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shuttle Transfer: Anchorage ↔ Denali National Park: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Acadia National Park or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali 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
    Denali National Park $57
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
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

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

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $79
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $119
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Hiking Tour in Denali: $199
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in Denali: $169
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $150
  • Authentical Denali Tour from Denali Park and Fairbanks: $260
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $150
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $114
  • Denali National Park Walking Tour: $125
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $165
  • Denali Self-Guided Jeep Adventure: $244
  • Half-Day Denali River Rafting Experience: $229

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Denali National Park $12


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



When is the best time to visit Acadia National Park or Denali National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Denali National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Denali National Park. Most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Denali National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Acadia National Park is generally a little warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 69°F (21°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In July, Acadia National Park usually receives less rain than Denali National Park. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C) 
    Denali National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Denali National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Acadia National Park as well as Denali National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Denali National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Denali National Park in the autumn. Acadia National Park is much warmer than Denali National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Denali National Park. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Denali National Park 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Denali National Park in the Winter?

Both Denali National Park and Acadia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Denali National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Denali National Park. It's quite cold in Acadia National Park in the winter. In the winter, Acadia National Park is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Acadia National Park in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 11°F (-12°C).

In January, Acadia National Park usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C) 
    Denali National Park 11°F (-12°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Denali National Park in the Spring?

Both Denali National Park and Acadia National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Denali National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

Denali National Park can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Acadia National Park is generally much warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 43°F (6°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets more rain in April than Denali National Park. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C) 
    Denali National Park 34°F (1°C)

Typical Weather for Denali National Park and Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Denali National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 11°F (-12°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 16°F (-9°C) 1.4 inches (37 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 23°F (-5°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 56°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (108 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 32°F (0°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)