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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Acadia National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Acadia National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, 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. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Philadelphia and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Acadia National Park are both popular with visitors, Philadelphia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

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

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

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

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

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Acadia National Park is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Acadia National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

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

Philadelphia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

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

Philadelphia has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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


Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Philadelphia while you're in town. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

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

Acadia National Park has a beach worth visiting. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Acadia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Acadia National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Acadia National Park?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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

Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Acadia National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Philadelphia is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Acadia National Park does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Acadia National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia has Christmas markets worth visiting. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Acadia National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Acadia National Park is known to be 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 Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia and Acadia National Park are both good to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

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 Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia and Acadia National Park are both good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

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

Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

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

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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


Is Philadelphia or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Acadia National Park

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Philadelphia. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

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

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

How long in Philadelphia or Acadia National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Acadia National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Philadelphia.


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

One day in Philadelphia or Acadia National Park?

Philadelphia 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, many people enjoy the that this scenic national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Acadia National Park?

Philadelphia 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.

Acadia National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Philadelphia or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Philadelphia for five days. You'll find theater and nightlife around the city of Philadelphia. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the scenic destination of Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Philadelphia or Acadia National Park?

The diverse big city of Philadelphia offers nightlife and live music. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Acadia National Park is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Philadelphia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $188, 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 Philadelphia and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia


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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Acadia National Park $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Philadelphia to Newark International Airport (EWR) - Departure Private Transfer : $169
  • Philadelphia to New York J.F. Kennedy Airport(JFK) - Departure Private Transfer : $173
  • Philadelphia to New York Airport (JFK) Departure Transfer : $190
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $351

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

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $49
    Acadia National Park $45
Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour - Small Group Walking Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $83
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90
  • Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $95

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.
    Philadelphia $28
    Acadia National Park $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Hour Ben Franklin Yacht Sunset Cruise : $75
  • A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia: $551
  • Amazing Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Badass Women's History Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $59
  • Best of Philadelphia Small Group Walking Tour: $104
  • Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour: $59
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $36
  • City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers: $32
  • Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Acadia National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

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

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


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



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

Both Acadia National Park and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

In the summer, Philadelphia is a little warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 69°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. In July, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C) 
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C)

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

Both Acadia National Park and Philadelphia during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Philadelphia is generally a little warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in October than Acadia National Park. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Acadia National Park. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Acadia National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Acadia National Park. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Philadelphia is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 43°F (6°C).

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in April than Acadia National Park. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Philadelphia

Philadelphia Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)