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

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh?

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 Pittsburgh, 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a under-rated, industrial, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Acadia National Park and Pittsburgh: 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 nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pittsburgh. Although Acadia National Park and Pittsburgh are popular destinations, Pittsburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pittsburgh is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. Pittsburgh is famous for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood". It is also well known for Mount Washington.

How is Acadia National Park different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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 Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

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 Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Pittsburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

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 Pittsburgh Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

Acadia National Park is great for hiking. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh?

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

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 Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

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

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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.


Is Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Acadia National Park is a good national park for couples to visit. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

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

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination 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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

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

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Pittsburgh has some public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

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


Is Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable city. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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 Pittsburgh Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Acadia National Park and Pittsburgh. In our opinion, Pittsburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh.

Families should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Pittsburgh. 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.


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

One day in Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh?

With around the beautiful national park of Acadia National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Acadia National Park, one day is sufficent for most.

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

With around the destination of Acadia National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Pittsburgh 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh?

Acadia National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Pittsburgh for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Pittsburgh. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Acadia National Park or Pittsburgh?

Acadia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The industrial destination of Pittsburgh offers nightlife and food. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Pittsburgh

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


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: Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Pittsburgh $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

Also for Pittsburgh, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97

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

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh 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
    Pittsburgh $54
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 Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acadia National Park $33
    Pittsburgh $38

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour: $30
  • Bike the Burgh Tour: $50
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $30
  • Discover Oakland Tour: $30
  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take: $75
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $40
  • New! Bikes & Brews Tour: $75
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30
  • Pittsburgh Penguins Ice Hockey Game Ticket at PPG Paints Arena: $51
  • Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Game Ticket at PNC Park: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Pittsburgh $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $40
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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