A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Acadia National Park vs. Lancaster for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Lancaster?

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 Lancaster, 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 scenic, picturesque, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a picturesque, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Acadia National Park and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Acadia National Park. Although Acadia National Park and Lancaster are popular destinations, Acadia National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Acadia National Park is very popular for its beaches and hiking, while Lancaster attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Lancaster and is known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. It is also well known for Cadillac Mountain. Lancaster is famous for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Acadia National Park different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Lancaster is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Lancaster can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Acadia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.


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

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Lancaster is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Lancaster is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Acadia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Acadia National Park or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Lancaster is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Lancaster. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Acadia National Park or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Acadia National Park has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Lancaster Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Acadia National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

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.

Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Lancaster?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Lancaster is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lancaster. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

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 Lancaster Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Acadia National Park and Lancaster are both superb 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.

Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.


Is Acadia National Park or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

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

Lancaster makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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 Lancaster Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.

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

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Acadia National Park and Lancaster.

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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.


Is Acadia National Park or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Lancaster

Acadia National Park and Lancaster are reasonable 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.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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

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

How long in Acadia National Park or Lancaster?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Acadia National Park and Lancaster. In our opinion, Lancaster has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lancaster than Acadia National Park. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Acadia National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Lancaster.

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

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

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


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

One day in Acadia National Park or Lancaster?

You'll find around the national park of Acadia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Acadia National Park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Lancaster. 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 Lancaster?

You'll find around the beautiful destination of Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.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.

Lancaster 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Acadia National Park or Lancaster?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the scenic national park of Acadia National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people visit Lancaster for five days. You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Lancaster. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Acadia National Park or Lancaster?

Acadia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The traditional destination of Lancaster offers food and shopping. 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Lancaster 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 Lancaster is $183. 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 Lancaster in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Lancaster $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Lancaster $182
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Lancaster

Looking for a hotel in Acadia National Park or Lancaster? 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 Lancaster


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: Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Lancaster $69

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

Prices for flights to both Lancaster 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
    Lancaster $53
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

For Lancaster, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania: $62
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acadia National Park $33
    Lancaster $19

Tours and Activities in Lancaster

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lancaster.

  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $47
  • Authentic Tour & Meal with the Amish!: $89
  • From Philadelphia: Lancaster County Amish Community Tour: $179
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $12
  • Historic Columbia, PA: Guided Tour of the Bank Museum: $14
  • Historic Lancaster Photo Shoot Tour: $100
  • Lancaster County: Amish Farmlands, Museum Tour, Farm Visit: $36
  • Lancaster County: Tour and Meal with an Amish Family: $79
  • Lancaster Electric Bicycle Tour: $130
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Lancaster $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lancaster:

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79
  • Lancaster City: The Ultimate Walking Craft Brewery Tour: $79


When comparing the travel costs between Acadia National Park and Lancaster, we can see that Lancaster 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 Lancaster Expensive?.



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

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 Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Lancaster. The summer months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

Acadia National Park is cooler than Lancaster in the summer. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 69°F (21°C) in July, and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In July, Acadia National Park usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C) 
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Acadia National Park as well as Lancaster. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Acadia National Park is cooler than Lancaster. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Acadia National Park in October average around 48°F (9°C), and Lancaster averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Lancaster. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C)

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

Both Lancaster and Acadia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lancaster in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lancaster can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Acadia National Park. In January, Acadia National Park is generally much colder than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 18°F (-8°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In January, Acadia National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lancaster. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C) 
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C)

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

Both Lancaster and Acadia National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the natural beauty during these months.

Acadia National Park is much colder than Lancaster in the spring. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Lancaster. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C) 
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Lancaster
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)