A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Adirondack Mountains vs. Edmonton for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a scenic, serene, and pristine region. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a authentic, friendly, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Adirondack Mountains and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Adirondack Mountains. Although Adirondack Mountains and Edmonton are popular destinations, Adirondack Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Adirondack Mountains is very popular for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Edmonton attracts visitors for its museums & sights and shopping. Adirondack Mountains is more touristy than Edmonton and is known for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. It is also well known for Whiteface Mountain. Edmonton is famous for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Adirondack Mountains different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edmonton and Adirondack Mountains. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton Better for Skiing?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Adirondack Mountains is very good for snow skiing. However, Edmonton is not a skiing destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Edmonton is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Edmonton is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

Edmonton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Adirondack Mountains. You can learn about local culture and heritage at any of the museums in the area. At the Adirondack Experience you can visit a vast campus that offers an open-air experience relating to the region's history. Other educational centers in the area include a wildlife center, several art museums, as well as battlefields, forts, and war museums.

Is the Food Better in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Adirondack Mountains is very good for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

Adirondack Mountains offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Steakhouses, pancake shops, and local diners all serve up fresh and local dishes. Many visitors like to pack a picnic that they can enjoy along a hiking trail, but if you're looking for a sit down option, there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Evening events are nice in both Adirondack Mountains and Edmonton.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Adirondack Mountains. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Edmonton. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton Better for Resorts?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Adirondack Mountains is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Edmonton is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Adirondack Mountains. Lodges and inns fill with vacationers who enjoy the pools and scenic settings that many of the resorts offer. Many places have a summer camp atmosphere that feels both wholesome and adventurous.

Edmonton is not a resort destination.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton Better for Hiking?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Adirondack Mountains is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular spot for hiking. Trails range from easy to challenging and each passes through beautiful and diverse landscapes. You can climb to scenic viewpoints or explore pristine forests. It's the perfect way to escape into nature for a bit.

Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Edmonton is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

Edmonton is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

Adirondack Mountains has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many of the towns have a "general store" where you can pick up souvenirs or local items. There are also local artisan shops and even outlet malls in the area.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton Better for Families?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Adirondack Mountains is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Adirondack Mountains is a very family-friendly place to visit. There area is filled with ropes courses, adventure parks, and hiking trails. There are nature centers with information programs for young ones. The kids will also be a enchanted by the waterfalls as the adults are.

Edmonton is a family-friendly region. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Adirondack Mountains is a well-known place for romance. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many lodges and inns that are tucked away in the mountains and make for a romantic retreat. Couples will enjoy the hiking and beautiful views. Whether you spend your time cozied up by the fire or out on an adventure, this is a wonderful romantic destination.

Edmonton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Adirondack Mountains is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Edmonton is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Adirondack Mountains. There are a number of campgrounds and even backcountry camping in the region. The hiking trails and beautiful setting make this a fun place to explore.

Edmonton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers overlook this city, but there is a hostel in town where you can stay.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Edmonton is a popular place for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Edmonton has a few public transit options. The city has both bus and light rail systems.

Public transit is quite limited in Adirondack Mountains. There is no real public transportation in the park.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton a more walkable city?

Adirondack Mountains
Edmonton

Edmonton is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable region. While there are many hiking trails, to get around and access most destinations, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Edmonton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Adirondack Mountains?

How long in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Adirondack Mountains than Edmonton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Adirondack Mountains, and 1-2 days is enough time in Edmonton.

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

Couples should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Edmonton. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Adirondack Mountains that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Edmonton 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 Adirondack Mountains.


  • How many days in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7 
    Edmonton 1-2

One day in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

The beautiful region of Adirondack Mountains offers museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Edmonton. 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 Edmonton has to offer.


A weekend in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Edmonton 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 Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Adirondack Mountains, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

Adirondack Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Adirondack Mountains has to offer. This region offers something for everyone.

The authentic destination of Edmonton offers nightlife 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Edmonton or Adirondack Mountains?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Adirondack Mountains is $166, while the average daily cost in Edmonton is $182. 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 Adirondack Mountains and Edmonton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Adirondack Mountains $97
    Edmonton $103
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Adirondack Mountains $194
    Edmonton $206
Compare Hotels in Adirondack Mountains and Edmonton

Looking for a hotel in Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton? 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 Adirondack Mountains


Hotels in Edmonton


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: Edmonton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Adirondack Mountains $33
    Edmonton $80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edmonton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Edmonton:

  • Private Departure Transfer from Edmonton to Edmonton Airport YEG: $44
  • Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG) - Departure Private Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Adirondack Mountains or Edmonton?

Prices for flights to both Edmonton and Adirondack Mountains 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
    Adirondack Mountains $49
    Edmonton $16

Typical Food Prices in Edmonton

Some typical examples of dining costs in Edmonton are as follows:


  • Snacks
    $7.36

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Adirondack Mountains $17
    Edmonton $92

Tours and Activities in Edmonton

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Edmonton are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Edmonton by Crazy Dash: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $25
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Rogers Place: $26
  • Edmonton River Valley 60-Minute Segway Adventure: $45
  • Edmonton River Valley 90-Minute Segway Adventure: $64
  • Summer Sunset Cruise (2Hr Tour): $90
  • Edmonton Food Bike Tour: $117
  • Festival Food Bike Tour: $120
  • Edmonton Food Bike Tour: $150
  • The Best of Edmonton Walking Tour: $232
  • Romantic Tour Around Edmonton For Couples: $232

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Adirondack Mountains $19
    Edmonton -

Sample the Local Flavors in Edmonton

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Brewery Tour: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Adirondack Mountains and Edmonton, we can see that Edmonton 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 Adirondack Mountains Expensive? and Is Edmonton Expensive?.