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

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Detroit?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Acadia National Park or Detroit, 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.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and picturesque national park. The beauty of Acadia National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking. See Acadia National Park travel costs.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Detroit travel costs.

Acadia National Park and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit. Although Acadia National Park and Detroit are both popular with visitors, Detroit has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Detroit is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Acadia National Park different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Detroit is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Acadia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.


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

Acadia National Park
Detroit

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

Detroit is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

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 Acadia National Park or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

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

Detroit has a large number of nightlife venues. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during 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 Acadia National Park or Detroit Better for Music?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Detroit is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.

Detroit has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is Acadia National Park or Detroit Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Acadia National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Detroit?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

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

Detroit has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern 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 Acadia National Park or Detroit More Beautiful?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Acadia National Park is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Acadia National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The dramatic ocean views and beautiful hiking trails make this a popular and scenic national park.

Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Acadia National Park or Detroit Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Acadia National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Acadia National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Acadia National Park or Detroit Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.


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

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Acadia National Park and Detroit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Acadia National Park or Detroit a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Detroit

Detroit is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Acadia National Park or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Acadia National Park and Detroit. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


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

One day in Acadia National Park or Detroit?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Detroit. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Detroit has to offer.

A weekend in Acadia National Park or Detroit?

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.

Detroit 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.

Five days in Acadia National Park or Detroit?

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.

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


A week in Acadia National Park or Detroit?

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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Acadia National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Acadia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Detroit Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Acadia National Park $206
    Detroit $165

The average daily cost (per person) in Acadia National Park is $206, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $165. 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 Acadia National Park and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Acadia National Park or Detroit? 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 Acadia National Park


Hotels in Detroit


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: Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $155
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $155
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $183
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $108

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

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Acadia 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
    Acadia National Park $78
    Detroit $76
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Secret Food Tour with Tastings: $80
  • Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City: $95
  • Detroit Flavors Food Tour: $150
  • Delicious in Detroit Food Tour: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acadia National Park $33
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt Interactive Walking Tour: $35
  • Best Detroit Walking Tour: $105
  • Best Downtown Detroit Historical Walking Tour: $100
  • Chauffeured Historic Tour of Detroit with Flexibility : $65
  • Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour : $65
  • Detroit Food Walking Tour: $159
  • Detroit Guided Pedicab Tour Explore the City in Comfort: $125
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $23
  • Detroit Private Sightseeing Tour with Daily Chauffeur: $3,000
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $11
  • Detroit's Hidden History Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Detroit $20


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

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



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

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 Acadia National Park or Detroit in the Summer?

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

In July, Acadia National Park is generally cooler than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 69°F (21°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In July, Acadia National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Detroit. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

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

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

Acadia National Park is cooler than Detroit in the autumn. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Detroit. Many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Detroit in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Detroit can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Acadia National Park. In the winter, Acadia National Park is much colder than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Acadia National Park in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In January, Acadia National Park usually receives more rain than Detroit. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

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

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

In April, Acadia National Park is generally much colder than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 43°F (6°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Detroit. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)