A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Kennebunkport for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and Kennebunkport can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a scenic, breathtaking, and serene national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing, food, and hiking.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a character-filled, charming, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Shenandoah National Park and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

Both Kennebunkport and Shenandoah National Park have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Shenandoah National Park is better known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kennebunkport is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Kennebunkport is well known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kennebunkport and Shenandoah National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place for skiing. However, Kennebunkport is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Kennebunkport is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kennebunkport. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Is the Food Better in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Kennebunkport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Shenandoah National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Kennebunkport has a few options to choose from. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

In Kennebunkport, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Shenandoah National Park is very popular for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Shenandoah National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kennebunkport. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Both Shenandoah National Park and Kennebunkport are excellent to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shenandoah National Park. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly place to visit. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Both Shenandoah National Park and Kennebunkport are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Kennebunkport is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Shenandoah National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Shenandoah National Park. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.


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

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Shenandoah National Park
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable town. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

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

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


  • How many days in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the scenic destination of Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shenandoah National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kennebunkport is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the scenic destination of Shenandoah National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Kennebunkport is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

You'll find food and skiing around the beautiful national park of Shenandoah National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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, Kennebunkport or Shenandoah National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Shenandoah National Park is $125, while the average daily cost in Kennebunkport is $220. 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 Shenandoah National Park and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shenandoah National Park $53
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shenandoah National Park $106
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Shenandoah National Park and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport? 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 Shenandoah National Park


Hotels in Kennebunkport


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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $70
    Kennebunkport $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Shenandoah National Park 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
    Shenandoah National Park $28
    Kennebunkport $67

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $34
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

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

  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $30
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $140
  • Ghost Tour with Folklore, Gossip & Scandals: $29
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $27
  • Historic District Walking Tour: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
    Kennebunkport $31


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shenandoah National Park and Kennebunkport, we can see that Kennebunkport is more expensive. And not only is Shenandoah National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shenandoah National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shenandoah 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 Kennebunkport would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kennebunkport than you might in Shenandoah National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport?

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 Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Shenandoah National Park is a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 69°F (20°C).

In July, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Shenandoah National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Shenandoah National Park is generally a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 56°F (13°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kennebunkport. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Kennebunkport. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kennebunkport can be very cold. Shenandoah National Park can be very cold during winter. Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the winter. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 32°F (-0°C) in January, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

In January, Shenandoah National Park usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Kennebunkport. The spring months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

In the spring, Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 43°F (6°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets less rain in April than Kennebunkport. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)