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

Should you visit Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Adirondack Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

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.

Destin and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Adirondack Mountains. Although Destin and Adirondack Mountains are popular destinations, Adirondack Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Adirondack Mountains is very popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Destin attracts visitors for its beaches. Destin is famous for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. 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 Destin different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Destin or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is very good for snow skiing. However, Destin 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.

Destin is not a skiing destination.


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

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Destin and Adirondack Mountains.

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

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 Destin or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

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

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.


Is Destin or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Destin and Adirondack Mountains.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Destin. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

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.

Is Destin or Adirondack Mountains Better for Beaches?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Destin is notable for the beache. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Destin is considered a top beach destination. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

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

Destin is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Both Destin and Adirondack Mountains are nice shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

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 Destin or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Adirondack Mountains.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Adirondack Mountains is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Destin or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

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

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.


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

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is notable for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Neither Destin or Adirondack Mountains offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

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

Is Destin or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Destin
Adirondack Mountains

Neither Destin or Adirondack Mountains are walkable places.

Destin is not a walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable beach town. 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 Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Destin?

How long in Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

Both Destin and Adirondack Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Adirondack Mountains has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Adirondack Mountains than Destin. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 3-7 days is enough time in Adirondack Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Destin. 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 Destin. 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 Destin 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 Destin or Adirondack Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7

One day in Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Adirondack Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

Destin is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Adirondack Mountains is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

Many people visit Destin for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the beach town of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Adirondack Mountains. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Destin. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, one week is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the pristine destination of Adirondack Mountains. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Adirondack Mountains or Destin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $192, 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 Destin and Adirondack Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Adirondack Mountains $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Adirondack Mountains $194
Compare Hotels in Destin and Adirondack Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Destin 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 Destin


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: Destin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Adirondack Mountains $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Destin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Destin:

  • Destin, FL to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $71

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Adirondack Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Adirondack Mountains and Destin 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
    Destin $51
    Adirondack Mountains $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Destin.

  • 3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Mother's Day Sunset Dinner Cruise: SOLARIS Yacht Miramar Beach FL: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Adirondack Mountains $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Destin are as follows:


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

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

  • Flippers Adventures Dolphin Cruise: $25
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises: $32
  • Spectacular Sunset Cruise: $33
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Guided Sunset Cruise Up to 22 Passengers in Florida: $35
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach : $35
  • Chakras Sound Bath Meditation Experience in Destin: $35
  • Family Friendly Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour: $40
  • Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $40
  • Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise: $40
  • Fort Walton Beach: Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40
  • Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Adirondack Mountains $19


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



When is the best time to visit Destin 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 Destin or Adirondack Mountains in the Summer?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Adirondack Mountains because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Destin is a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Destin in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Destin or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Destin because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Adirondack Mountains this time of year.

In October, Destin is generally much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 69°F (21°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Adirondack Mountains. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Destin or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Adirondack Mountains. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Adirondack Mountains. Destin is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Destin or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Adirondack Mountains. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Destin is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Destin in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Adirondack Mountains. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Destin

Destin Adirondack Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)