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

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 scenic, picturesque, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a popular, world-famous, 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 Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • 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 El Capitan


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yosemite National Park. Although Acadia National Park and Yosemite National Park are popular destinations, Yosemite National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yosemite National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and shopping. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Acadia National Park and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. It is also well known for El Capitan. Acadia National Park is famous for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

How is Acadia National Park different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Acadia National Park is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Foodies will find both Acadia National Park and Yosemite National Park both to be reasonable 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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Acadia National Park is not a good place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Acadia National Park for the nightlife. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.


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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Acadia National Park is a popular place for the beach. However, Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Acadia National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Yosemite National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Acadia National Park is not a good place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Acadia National Park and Yosemite National Park are both very good 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.

Yosemite National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park has some public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

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 Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Yosemite National Park

Acadia National Park and Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park is generally not very walkable. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

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

How long in Acadia National Park or Yosemite National Park?

Both Acadia National Park and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than in Acadia National Park. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Acadia National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Acadia National Park or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Acadia National Park 1-3 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Acadia National Park or Yosemite National Park?

The national park of Acadia National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Yosemite 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. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Acadia National Park or Yosemite National Park?

The scenic destination of Acadia National Park offers . This national park offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Yosemite National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Acadia National Park or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many people visit Yosemite National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Yosemite National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

A week in Acadia National Park or Yosemite National Park?

Acadia National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Acadia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Yosemite National Park. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yosemite National Park, one week is sufficent for most.


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, Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park is $129. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Yosemite National Park

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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Yosemite National Park $41

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

Prices for flights to both Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $40
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
    Yosemite National Park $19

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Family Fun Private Half Day Fly Fishing Adventure: $215
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Private Guided Hiking Tour in Yosemite: $293
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Waterfalls of Yosemite: Customizable Private Tour: $495
  • Yosemite Full Day Small Group High Country / Mariposa Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $11
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

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


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