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

Should you visit Atlanta or Acadia National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Acadia 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.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a suburban, cultural, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Atlanta and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Atlanta. Although Atlanta and Acadia National Park are popular destinations, Atlanta has more sights and attractions for tourists. Atlanta is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Atlanta and is known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. Atlanta is famous for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also well known for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Atlanta different from Acadia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Acadia National Park and Atlanta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Acadia National Park?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

Atlanta is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Atlanta has many famous sights for visitors. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

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 Atlanta or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

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

Atlanta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

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 Atlanta or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

Atlanta is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Atlanta has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Atlanta or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Atlanta is not a beach destination.

Acadia National Park has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Atlanta is not a beach destination.


Is Atlanta or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

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

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Acadia National Park?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

Atlanta is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many people travel to Atlanta specifically to go shopping. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

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

Is Atlanta or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

Atlanta and Acadia National Park are both superb destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Acadia National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Atlanta or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

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

Atlanta is a good city for couples to visit. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

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

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

For backpackers, both Atlanta and Acadia National Park are nice places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Acadia National Park is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Is Atlanta or Acadia National Park Better for Students?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

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

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.


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

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

Atlanta and Acadia National Park both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Is Atlanta or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Acadia National Park

Atlanta is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

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 Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Atlanta or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Atlanta and Acadia National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Atlanta than in Acadia National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Atlanta or Acadia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Acadia National Park 1-3

One day in Atlanta or Acadia National Park?

Atlanta is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

In Acadia National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Atlanta or Acadia National Park?

Atlanta 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.

In Acadia National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Acadia National Park has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Acadia National Park?

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

Acadia National Park is a great place to explore. 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. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or Acadia National Park?

The suburban big city of Atlanta 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acadia National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Atlanta?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in Acadia National Park is $173. 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 Atlanta and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Acadia 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Acadia 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: Atlanta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Acadia National Park $46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

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

  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Downtown to Atlanta Airport: $67
  • San Jose Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to San Jose Costa: $35
  • RoundTrip Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from-to Airport-Atlanta Downtown: $133
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Business Car: $119
  • Private Transfer from Atlanta (ATL) Airport to Atlanta City: $94
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Atlanta Airport (ATL): $80
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL):Transfer to Atlanta: $278
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $194
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $97
  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $66
  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Arrival Private Transfer: $33
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $133

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

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $43
    Acadia National Park $45
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

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

  • 2 Hour Guided Wood Fired Pizza Class in Atlanta: $55
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99

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.
    Atlanta $56
    Acadia National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market: $95
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta: $69
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Midtown Atlanta: $69
  • 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour : $99
  • 3-Hour Private Atlanta MCU Comics Inspired Film Location Tour: $175
  • 90-Minute Guided Sightseeing Tour by E-Car or MiniBus: $36
  • 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta: $36
  • African American Atlanta Culture Tour by Private Car Service : $90
  • African-American Heritage&Civil Rights Atlanta Half-Day Tour: $656
  • Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus: $70
  • Atlanta Beltline Cocktails and Bites Experience: $129
  • Atlanta Electric Car City Tour: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Acadia National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

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

  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • North Georgia Mountains Two Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $137
  • Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting: $159
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $165
  • North Georgia Mountains Private Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $180


When comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Acadia National Park, we can see that Acadia National Park 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 Atlanta Expensive? and Is Acadia National Park Expensive?.



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

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 Atlanta or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Acadia National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

Atlanta is a little warmer than Acadia National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlanta 82°F (28°C) 
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Acadia National Park. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Atlanta is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlanta in October average around 66°F (19°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Atlanta usually gets less rain in October than Acadia National Park. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlanta 66°F (19°C) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

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

Both Acadia National Park and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Acadia National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Atlanta is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 45°F (7°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In January, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlanta 45°F (7°C) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

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

Both Acadia National Park and Atlanta during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Atlanta is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 65°F (18°C) in April, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in April than Acadia National Park. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlanta 65°F (18°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Atlanta

Atlanta Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 49°F (9°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 57°F (14°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)