A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Adirondack Mountains vs. Hilo for Hiking, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

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

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Hilo? 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 pristine, scenic, and serene region. With stunning beauty, Adirondack Mountains attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Adirondack Mountains travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a authentic, laid back, and mellow town. The beauty of Hilo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Hilo travel costs.

Adirondack Mountains and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hilo. Although Adirondack Mountains and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Hilo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hilo is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Adirondack Mountains is known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Adirondack Mountains is popular for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. Hilo is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also home to Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Adirondack Mountains different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo Better for Skiing?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for skiing. However, Hilo is not a skiing destination.

Head to Adirondack Mountains for some great skiing and other winter activities. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Hilo is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Adirondack Mountains and Hilo.

Adirondack Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hilo. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

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

Hilo is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hilo. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

Adirondack Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Adirondack Mountains has a few options to choose from. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Adirondack Mountains is a great region for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

Adirondack Mountains is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a moderate town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Adirondack Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a popular place for the beach. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Hilo is a good option for a beach vacation. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Hilo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Adirondack Mountains. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

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.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo More Beautiful?

Adirondack Mountains and Hilo are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality scenery.

The beauty of Adirondack Mountains is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful lakes and waterfalls, serene settings, and striking viewpoints make this a beautiful destination where you can escape into nature.

With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Adirondack Mountains or Hilo.

Adirondack Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hilo. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Adirondack Mountains and Hilo make for a high quality place to visit.

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.

Hilo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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

Both Adirondack Mountains and Hilo are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Adirondack Mountains is a great region to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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

Hilo is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

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

Is Adirondack Mountains or Hilo a more walkable city?

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

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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 Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Adirondack Mountains?

How long in Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hilo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hilo than Adirondack Mountains. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Adirondack Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Hilo. 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 Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

Adirondack Mountains is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hilo is a fun place to experience. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the serene destination of Adirondack Mountains. This region offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people visit Hilo for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful town of Hilo. 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 town has to offer.

A week in Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the serene region of Adirondack Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Hilo. 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 Hilo, one week is sufficent for most.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

When is the best time to visit Adirondack Mountains or Hilo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Hilo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Adirondack Mountains as well as Hilo. The summer months attract visitors to Adirondack Mountains because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In the summer, Adirondack Mountains is cooler than Hilo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Adirondack Mountains in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Adirondack Mountains this time of the year. In the summer, Adirondack Mountains often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Adirondack Mountains gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Adirondack Mountains usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Adirondack Mountains gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Adirondack Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Adirondack Mountains this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Adirondack Mountains is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Adirondack Mountains average around 49°F (9°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Adirondack Mountains usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo during autumn. Adirondack Mountains gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In October, Adirondack Mountains usually receives less rain than Hilo. Adirondack Mountains gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Hilo in the Winter?

Both Hilo and Adirondack Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Adirondack Mountains. Adirondack Mountains is much colder than Hilo in the winter. The daily temperature in Adirondack Mountains averages around 18°F (-8°C) in January, and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Adirondack Mountains often gets less sunshine than Hilo. Adirondack Mountains gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Adirondack Mountains usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Adirondack Mountains gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Adirondack Mountains and Hilo. Many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Adirondack Mountains is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Adirondack Mountains in April average around 46°F (8°C), and Hilo averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Adirondack Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. Adirondack Mountains usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Adirondack Mountains gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Adirondack Mountains usually receives less rain than Hilo. Adirondack Mountains gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Adirondack Mountains