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

Should you visit Orlando or Acadia National Park?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Acadia National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and theater.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a picturesque, beautiful, and scenic national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Orlando and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Orlando than Acadia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Acadia National Park is more popular for its museums, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Acadia National Park and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is famous for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Acadia National Park is well known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

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

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

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Acadia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Theater?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Acadia National Park is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Acadia National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

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

Orlando has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

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


Is Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Orlando is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a popular place for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Acadia National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is great for hiking. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Acadia National Park?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Orlando is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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

Is Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Orlando is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Acadia National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Acadia National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Orlando is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Acadia National Park make for a notable place to visit.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Acadia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

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

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Acadia National Park Better for Students?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

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

Plenty of students visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.


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

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Orlando and Acadia National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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

Is Orlando or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Orlando
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is adequate for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Acadia National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Orlando or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orlando and Acadia National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Acadia National Park than in Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Orlando 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 Acadia National Park.


  • How many days in Orlando or Acadia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Acadia National Park 1-3

One day in Orlando or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando or Acadia National Park?

Orlando is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that a weekend is more than enough time to see everything. 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 Orlando or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Orlando for five days. You'll find theater and nightlife around the city of Orlando. 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.

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 Orlando or Acadia National Park?

The family-friendly destination of Orlando 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. 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 in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Orlando?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $321, 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 Orlando and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Orlando 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 Orlando


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: Orlando Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Acadia National Park $46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

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

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Orlando APT-HTL (MCO): $96
  • Transfer service in Orlando. MCO: $75
  • Transfer from Orlando International Airport to Central Florida: $115
  • Sedan Transfer Orlando Airport to Disney Resort up to 4 Passengers: $150
  • Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) to Hotels near Universal - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • SUV Transfer TO or FROM MCO to Lake Buena Vista (Disney Hotels): $145
  • Roundtrip transfer Orlando Airport-Hotels in Disney and Universal: $96
  • Private Transfers from Port Canaveral to Disney Hotels: $250
  • Private Transfer: Sanford Airport to Lake Buena Vista Resort Area: $75
  • Private Transfer: Orlando to Orlando International Airport (MCO): $80
  • Private Transfer: Legoland to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $153
  • Private Transfer: Lake Buena Vista Resort to MCO Airport in SUV: $111

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

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Orlando 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
    Orlando $65
    Acadia National Park $45
Typical Food Prices in Orlando

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


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

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

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $38
  • Tastes of the World Food Tour in Winter Haven : $50
  • Señor Frogs Lunch / Dinner Package: $50
  • Dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe with Live Music: $58
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Sleuth's Mystery Dinner Show, Orlando: $69
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Teatro Martini Dinner Show in Orlando: $79
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

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.
    Orlando $204
    Acadia National Park $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

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

  • 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando: $77
  • Everglades Airboat Tour near Orlando Florida: $89
  • 1 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of The Famous Chain of Lakes: $27
  • 16 mile Heli Tour Over Disney Spring, Epcot, Hollywood Studios: $86
  • 16 miles Private Helicopter Day Tour over Fun Spot: $65
  • 2 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of the Chain of Lakes: $42
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 23 mile Heli Tour, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom &more: $127
  • 23 miles Day Flight Heli Coaster Adventure Ride: $128
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $300
  • Beer Spirits and Ghosts Walking Tour: $170

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Acadia National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Virtual Bar Crawl & Scavenger Hunt: $12
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $85
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Acadia National Park, we can see that Orlando 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando 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 Orlando Expensive? and Is Acadia National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Orlando 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 Orlando or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Acadia National Park. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 82°F (28°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Acadia National Park. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Orlando is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Acadia National Park. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orlando 75°F (24°C) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

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

Both Acadia National Park and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Acadia National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Orlando is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

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

Both Acadia National Park and Orlando during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

In April, Orlando is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Acadia National Park. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Orlando

Orlando Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)