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

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Grand 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 Grand 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 picturesque, beautiful, and scenic national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a striking, breathtaking, and stunning national 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 Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 the sunset views


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park than Acadia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is better known for its resorts and impressive beauty, while Acadia National Park is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Acadia National Park and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is famous for the sunset views. Acadia National Park is well known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Foodies will find both Acadia National Park and Grand Canyon National Park both to be respectable 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.

Grand Canyon National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park is not a good area for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.


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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park is a good destination for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Acadia National Park offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park and Grand Canyon National Park are both places where visitors can find great hiking trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park is not a good area for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Acadia National Park can be found for those interested. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Acadia National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Acadia National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand 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 Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Acadia National Park and Grand 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 Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

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

Acadia National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

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

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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Acadia National Park or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon 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 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

Families should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Grand 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 Grand Canyon National Park than Acadia National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grand 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 Grand 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 Grand Canyon National Park.


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

One day in Acadia National Park or Grand 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 Grand 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. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer.


A weekend in Acadia National Park or Grand 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.

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

Five days in Acadia National Park or Grand 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 Grand Canyon National Park for five days. You'll find around the beautiful national park of Grand Canyon 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.

A week in Acadia National Park or Grand 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 breathtaking destination of Grand Canyon 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.


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, Grand 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 Grand Canyon National Park is $168. 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 Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Acadia National Park or Grand 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 Grand 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: Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

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

Prices for flights to both Grand 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $49
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
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 3-Day Adventure in Mulu National Park: $298
  • 4 Hour Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Morning Rim Tour: $149
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • Desert View Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $143
  • Full Day Chauffeur for Grand Canyon Tour from inside Grand Canyon: $249
  • Full Day Chauffeur for South Rim Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $249
  • Full-Day Tour to Grand Canyon Coach and River Float: $245
  • Grand Canyon Full Day Small Group Tour: $299
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $179
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $121
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17

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


When comparing the travel costs between Acadia National Park and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Acadia National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.