A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Adirondack Mountains vs. Lancaster for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster?

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

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster? 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, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a traditional, picturesque, and scenic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Adirondack Mountains and Lancaster: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Adirondack Mountains. Although Adirondack Mountains and Lancaster are both popular with visitors, Adirondack Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Adirondack Mountains is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Lancaster is known for its museums and shopping. Adirondack Mountains is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. It is also home to Whiteface Mountain. Lancaster is popular for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Adirondack Mountains different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster Better for Skiing?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for skiing. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a skiing destination.


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

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Lancaster 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.

Lancaster offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

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 Lancaster? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Adirondack Mountains and Lancaster can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Adirondack Mountains. 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.

Lancaster is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster 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 Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster Better for Resorts?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Adirondack Mountains is a great region for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster Better for Hiking?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Adirondack Mountains is a great region for hiking. However, Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking trails. 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.

Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

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 Lancaster Better for Families?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

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

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 Lancaster. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

With fun activities for couples, both Adirondack Mountains and Lancaster make for a very good 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.

Lancaster makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Adirondack Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.


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

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Lancaster 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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

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

Is Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Adirondack Mountains
Lancaster

Lancaster is a moderate town for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires 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 Lancaster Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Adirondack Mountains?

How long in Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Adirondack Mountains and Lancaster. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than in Lancaster. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Adirondack Mountains, and 2-3 days is enough time in Lancaster.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Lancaster 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 Lancaster? Ideal Length of Stay
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7 
    Lancaster 2-3

One day in Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the region of Adirondack Mountains. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic destination of Adirondack Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Lancaster 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster?

You'll find food and shopping around the serene region of Adirondack Mountains. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this region makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.

Many people visit Lancaster for five days. You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Lancaster. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Adirondack Mountains, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The scenic destination of Lancaster offers food 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 for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Lancaster 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 Lancaster is $183. 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 Lancaster in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Adirondack Mountains $97
    Lancaster $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Adirondack Mountains $194
    Lancaster $182
Compare Hotels in Adirondack Mountains and Lancaster

Looking for a hotel in Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster? 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 Lancaster


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: Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Adirondack Mountains $33
    Lancaster $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster?

Prices for flights to both Lancaster 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
    Lancaster $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

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

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania: $62
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Adirondack Mountains $17
    Lancaster $19

Tours and Activities in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $12
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Historic Columbia, PA: Guided Tour of the Bank Museum: $14
  • Lancaster Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $24
  • Evening Ghost Tour by Candlelight: $25
  • Lititz Whiskey and History Tour : $25
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House: $36
  • Lancaster County: Amish Farmlands, Museum Tour, Farm Visit: $36
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $47
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Adirondack Mountains $19
    Lancaster $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79
  • Lancaster City: The Ultimate Walking Craft Brewery Tour: $79


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



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

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 Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Adirondack Mountains as well as Lancaster. Many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lancaster in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Adirondack Mountains is cooler than Lancaster. Typically, the summer temperatures in Adirondack Mountains in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Lancaster averages at about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lancaster. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Adirondack Mountains this time of the year. In the summer, Adirondack Mountains often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. Adirondack Mountains gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

Adirondack Mountains usually gets less rain in July than Lancaster. Adirondack Mountains gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C) 
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster in the Autumn?

Both Lancaster and Adirondack Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Adirondack Mountains is generally cooler than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Adirondack Mountains average around 49°F (9°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Adirondack Mountains usually receives less sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. Adirondack Mountains gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Adirondack Mountains usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lancaster. Adirondack Mountains gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Adirondack Mountains 49°F (9°C) 
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster in the Winter?

Both Lancaster and Adirondack Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Adirondack Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lancaster can be very cold. Adirondack Mountains can be very cold during winter. Adirondack Mountains is much colder than Lancaster in the winter. The daily temperature in Adirondack Mountains averages around 18°F (-8°C) in January, and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Adirondack Mountains often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. Adirondack Mountains gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

Adirondack Mountains usually gets less rain in January than Lancaster. Adirondack Mountains gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C) 
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Lancaster in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Adirondack Mountains and Lancaster. The spring months attract visitors to Adirondack Mountains because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

In the spring, Adirondack Mountains is much colder than Lancaster. Typically, the spring temperatures in Adirondack Mountains in April average around 46°F (8°C), and Lancaster averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lancaster this time of the year. In Adirondack Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. Adirondack Mountains usually receives less sunshine than Lancaster during spring. Adirondack Mountains gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Adirondack Mountains usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Adirondack Mountains gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C) 
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains Lancaster
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)