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

Should you visit Houston or Acadia National Park?

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 Houston and Acadia National Park. 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.

Houston

Houston is a southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and picturesque national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking.

Houston and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Acadia National Park are both popular with visitors, Houston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Houston is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also home to The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston 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 Houston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Houston
Acadia National Park

Houston is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Houston can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Houston
Acadia National Park

Houston is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

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 Houston or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Acadia National Park

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

Houston has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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

Is Houston or Acadia National Park Better for Music?

Houston
Acadia National Park

Houston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Houston active and fun. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Houston or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Houston
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a good destination for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Acadia National Park offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Houston or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Houston
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

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

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Acadia National Park?

Houston
Acadia National Park

Houston is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

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


Is Houston or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Houston
Acadia National Park

Both Houston and Acadia National Park are great family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Acadia National Park. 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 Houston or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Houston
Acadia National Park

Houston and Acadia National Park both good destinations for a couple.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Acadia National Park is a good city for couples to visit. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

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

Houston
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers visit Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Houston or Acadia National Park Better for Students?

Houston
Acadia National Park

Houston is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Houston
Acadia National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Acadia National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

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

Is Houston or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Houston
Acadia National Park

Houston and Acadia National Park both are decent when exploring on foot.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

Acadia National Park is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Houston or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Houston and Acadia National Park. In our opinion, Houston has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Houston than Acadia National Park. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

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

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


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

One day in Houston or Acadia National Park?

Houston 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 Houston or Acadia National Park?

Houston 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 Houston or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Houston for five days. You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Houston. 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 Houston or Acadia National Park?

The one-of-a-kind big city of Houston offers museums and nightlife. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Houston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $262, 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 Houston and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Houston and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Houston 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 Houston


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: Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Acadia National Park $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • William P.Hobby Airport (HOU): Transfer to Port of Galveston: $540
  • William P. Hobby Airport to Galveston Port Arrival Transfer: $168
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $60
  • Transfer in private minivan from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $88
  • SUV Airport Transfer in Houston: $200
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan from-to HoustonAirport in Houston Downtown: $176
  • Round trip transfer in private car from-to Houston Airport in Houston Downtown: $120
  • Private One-way George Bush Airport Transfer To/From Houston: $71
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston William P. Hobby Airport HOU: $48
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): $51
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $168
  • Round-Trip Shuttle Transfer to NASA Space Center: $62

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

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Houston 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
    Houston $35
    Acadia National Park $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Seasonal Pizza From Scratch Experience in Houston: $55
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $72
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $87
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90

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.
    Houston $14
    Acadia National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • Houston Ghosts and Hauntings By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 2 Hours H- Town Tour with 15ft Open Air Party Truck On Wheels: $46
  • 2-Hour Private Sightseeing Cart Tour of Houston and Galveston: $256
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Admission and Shuttle: $85
  • Astroville Private Best of Houston City Driving Tour: $375
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour & NASA Space Center Admission with Shuttle: $85
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned): $32
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Condtioned): $32
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Acadia National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Houston and Acadia National Park, we can see that Houston is more expensive. And not only is Acadia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Acadia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Acadia National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston than you might in Acadia National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Houston Expensive? and Is Acadia National Park Expensive?.



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

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 Houston or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Houston as well as Acadia National Park. Many visitors come to Houston in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Houston is a little warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Houston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 69°F (21°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Acadia National Park. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C)

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

Both Acadia National Park and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Houston is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 71°F (22°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

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

Both Acadia National Park and Houston during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Houston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Acadia National Park in the winter. Houston is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Houston usually gets more rain in January than Acadia National Park. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Acadia National Park. The activities around the city are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Houston is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Houston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 43°F (6°C).

In April, Houston usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Houston

Houston Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)