A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Adirondack Mountains for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Atlantic City and Adirondack Mountains. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a glitzy, flashy, and party-oriented city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

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.

Atlantic City and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Adirondack Mountains. Although Atlantic City and Adirondack Mountains are popular destinations, Adirondack Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Adirondack Mountains is very popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Atlantic City attracts visitors for its nightlife and beaches. Atlantic City is more touristy than Adirondack Mountains and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Adirondack Mountains is famous for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. It is also well known for Whiteface Mountain.

How is Atlantic City different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is not a skiing destination.


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

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Adirondack Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

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

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and Adirondack Mountains both to be nice destinations.

Atlantic City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Adirondack Mountains has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Atlantic City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its evening party scene.

Atlantic City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Adirondack Mountains. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.


Is Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Atlantic City and Adirondack Mountains.

There are plenty of resorts in Atlantic City to choose from. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

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.

Is Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Atlantic City is a popular place for the beache. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

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

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Shopping is a popular activity in both Adirondack Mountains and Atlantic City.

Atlantic City is a great destination for shopping. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Adirondack Mountains. 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 Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known 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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Adirondack Mountains frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.


Is Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

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

Atlantic City has a few public transit options. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

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

Is Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Adirondack Mountains

Atlantic City is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Atlantic City is a very walkable city. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable city. 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 Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlantic City 1-3 
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7

One day in Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Atlantic City has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the scenic destination of Adirondack Mountains. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

Atlantic City is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Adirondack Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

Many people visit Atlantic City for five days. You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Atlantic City. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the serene destination of Adirondack Mountains. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

The glitzy destination of Atlantic City offers nightlife and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful region of Adirondack Mountains. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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, Adirondack Mountains or Atlantic City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $154, while the average daily cost in Adirondack Mountains is $166. 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 Atlantic City and Adirondack Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Adirondack Mountains $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Adirondack Mountains $194
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Adirondack Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains? 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 Atlantic City


Hotels in Adirondack Mountains


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: Atlantic City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Adirondack Mountains $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Adirondack Mountains and Atlantic City 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
    Atlantic City $50
    Adirondack Mountains $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    Adirondack Mountains $17

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

Here are a few actual costs in Atlantic City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Sea Rocket Sunrise Cruise Overlooking Ocean City, MD: $22
  • Sea Rocket Early Bird Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City: $24
  • Banshees of the Boardwalk Walking Tour: $24
  • Sea Rocket Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $25
  • Morning or Afternoon Skyline Ocean Cruise: $27
  • Quiet Bay Cruise With Happy Hour Options: $27
  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $27
  • Sunset Party Cruise with DJ: $33
  • Sea Rocket Sunset Cruise Overlooking Ocean City, MD: $34
  • Bay Hopper Breakfast Sandwich Cruise: $35
  • 1 Hour Private Escape Room Experience in Ocean City: $36
  • OC Bay Hopper Sunset Cruise Departs Downtown OC: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Adirondack Mountains $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlantic City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Atlantic City:

  • Little Water Distillery Spirit Tasting: $15


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



When is the best time to visit Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains?

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 Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Adirondack Mountains. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Atlantic City is a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Atlantic City in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Adirondack Mountains this time of the year. In Atlantic City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Adirondack Mountains during summer. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlantic City 75°F (24°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Adirondack Mountains. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Atlantic City is generally a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 56°F (13°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

In the autumn, Atlantic City often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 144 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets less rain in October than Adirondack Mountains. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Adirondack Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Adirondack Mountains can be very cold during winter. Atlantic City can get quite cold in the winter. Atlantic City is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during winter. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlantic City 31°F (-0°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Atlantic City during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Adirondack Mountains because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Atlantic City is a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Atlantic City in April average around 51°F (10°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In Adirondack Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. In the spring, Atlantic City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Adirondack Mountains. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 210 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in April than Adirondack Mountains. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlantic City 51°F (10°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Atlantic City

Atlantic City Adirondack Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Aug 74°F (23°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)