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

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Providence?

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 Providence, 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.

Providence

Providence is a active, friendly, and fascinating city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Acadia National Park and Providence: 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Acadia National Park. Although Acadia National Park and Providence are popular destinations, Acadia National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Acadia National Park is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Providence attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Providence 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. Providence is famous for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Acadia National Park different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Acadia National Park
Providence

Providence is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Providence. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

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 Providence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acadia National Park
Providence

Providence is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Providence has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

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 Providence Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Providence

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

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

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 Providence Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Providence

Acadia National Park is a good destination for the beach. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a beach destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Providence Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Providence

Acadia National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Providence?

Acadia National Park
Providence

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

Providence has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

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 Providence Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Providence

Acadia National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.


Is Acadia National Park or Providence Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Providence

Acadia National Park and Providence are both nice to visit as a couple.

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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

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

Acadia National Park
Providence

Acadia National Park is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Providence is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Providence is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town for those who want an affordable place to stay.

Is Acadia National Park or Providence Better for Students?

Acadia National Park
Providence

Providence is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

Providence is a great city to visit as a student. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.


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

Acadia National Park
Providence

Providence 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.

Providence has some public transit options. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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 Providence a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Providence

Providence is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Providence is a very walkable destination. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore 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 Providence Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Acadia National Park or Providence?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Providence 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 Providence.


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

One day in Acadia National Park or Providence?

With around the scenic 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 Providence. 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 Providence?

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.

Providence 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 Providence?

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

A week in Acadia National Park or Providence?

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 friendly destination of Providence 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, Providence 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 Providence is $210. 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 Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Providence

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


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: Providence Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $46
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $46
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $172
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $62
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $50
  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36
  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $275

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

Prices for flights to both Providence 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
    Providence $48
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 Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acadia National Park $33
    Providence $26

Tours and Activities in Providence

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

  • Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal: $58
  • Brews Cruise with Narragansett Beer: $60
  • Creative Capital: Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $40
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $40
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Haunted Boat Tours: $49
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Narrated Boat Tours: $38
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Providence Architecture Boat Tour: $65
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Providence $13


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Acadia National Park and Providence, we can see that Providence 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 Providence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Providence 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 Providence Expensive?.



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

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 Providence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Providence. Many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Providence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Acadia National Park is cooler than Providence in the summer. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 69°F (21°C) in July, and Providence fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In July, Acadia National Park usually receives more rain than Providence. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C) 
    Providence 73°F (23°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Acadia National Park as well as Providence. Many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Providence for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Acadia National Park is cooler than Providence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Acadia National Park in October average around 48°F (9°C), and Providence averages at about 53°F (12°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Providence. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Providence 53°F (12°C)

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

Both Providence and Acadia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Providence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Providence can be very cold. Acadia National Park can be very cold during winter. In January, Acadia National Park is generally much colder than Providence. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 18°F (-8°C), and Providence fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In January, Acadia National Park usually receives less rain than Providence. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

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

Both Providence and Acadia National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Acadia National Park is much colder than Providence in the spring. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets less rain in April than Providence. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)