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

Should you visit Tampa or Acadia National Park?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a scenic, picturesque, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Tampa and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tampa. Although Tampa and Acadia National Park are popular destinations, Tampa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tampa is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also well known for Busch Gardens.

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

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

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Acadia National Park

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

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

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 Tampa or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Acadia National Park

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

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Tampa. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

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

Is Tampa or Acadia National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Tampa is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Acadia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Acadia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Tampa or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Tampa is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tampa. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Acadia National Park. 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.

Is Tampa or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Acadia National Park?

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is not a good area for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Acadia National Park can be found for those interested. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Tampa or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tampa or Acadia National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

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 Tampa or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a popular place for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Tampa
Acadia National Park

Tampa and Acadia National Park are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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 Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Tampa or Acadia National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Tampa 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 Tampa or Acadia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Acadia National Park 1-3

One day in Tampa or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Tampa. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Acadia National Park, many people enjoy the that this picturesque destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Tampa or Acadia National Park?

Tampa is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acadia National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Tampa for five days. You'll find food around the city of Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Acadia National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Acadia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Acadia National Park?

The laid-back destination of Tampa offers food. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

You'll find around the picturesque destination of Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, 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 Tampa and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Acadia National Park $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Private Transfer to/from Tampa Airport (TPA): $69
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port-Departure Private Transfer : $50
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tampa hotels: $302
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $50
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $100
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Transfer tо Tampa Bay Cruise Port: $302
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Private Transfer to Tampa hotel/address: $203
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $100
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $107
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $175
  • Private transfer: From Tampa to airport and vice versa : $18

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

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Acadia National Park $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $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.
    Tampa $20
    Acadia National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $50
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $108
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Escape to Paradise: Private Island Boat Adventure in Tampa: $630
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35
  • Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $41
  • Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart: $49
  • Haunted Tampa Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour - Ybor City: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Acadia National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tampa:

  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200


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



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

Both Acadia National Park and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tampa is a little warmer than Acadia National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Tampa. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

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

Both Acadia National Park and Tampa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tampa in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Tampa is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Acadia National Park. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Acadia National Park. Most visitors come to Tampa for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, 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 January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Acadia National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

Tampa is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Acadia National Park. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Tampa

Tampa Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)