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

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Juneau?

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 Juneau, 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. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking. See Acadia National Park travel costs.

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking city. Juneau is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Juneau travel costs.

Acadia National Park and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Acadia National Park and Juneau are both popular with visitors, Juneau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Juneau is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Acadia National Park is known for its beaches. Acadia National Park is popular for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. Juneau is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier.

How is Acadia National Park different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Juneau 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 Juneau?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Juneau is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Juneau can be an interesting and educational experience. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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 Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

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

Juneau has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Juneau 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 Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in 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 Juneau Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Acadia National Park is a popular place for the beach. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

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

Juneau is not a beach destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Juneau draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Juneau?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Juneau 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 Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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 Juneau More Beautiful?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Juneau is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

Acadia National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The dramatic ocean views and beautiful hiking trails make this a popular and scenic national park.


Is Acadia National Park or Juneau Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Acadia National Park and Juneau are both very good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Acadia National Park. 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.

Juneau is a very family-friendly place to visit. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Is Acadia National Park or Juneau Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Juneau has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

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

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Juneau is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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


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

Acadia National Park
Juneau

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

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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Is Acadia National Park or Juneau a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Juneau

Juneau is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Juneau is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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 Juneau Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Acadia National Park or Juneau?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau 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 Juneau.


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

One day in Acadia National Park or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Juneau. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


A weekend in Acadia National Park or Juneau?

Acadia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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.

Five days in Acadia National Park or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acadia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people visit Juneau for five days. You'll find museums and food around the beautiful city of Juneau. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Acadia National Park or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Acadia National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The historic destination of Juneau offers food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, 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, Juneau 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
    Juneau Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Acadia National Park $206
    Juneau $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Acadia National Park is $206, while the average daily cost in Juneau is $196. 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 Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Juneau

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


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: Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Juneau $38

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

Prices for flights to both Juneau 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
    Juneau $85
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.
    Acadia National Park $33
    Juneau $17

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Juneau are as follows:

  • 3 Hour Fishing Experience/Class in Juneau: $225
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau, Alaska: $189
  • 4-Hour Wildlife and Coastal Tour in Juneau, Alaska: $220
  • Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo: $145
  • Alpine Segway Wilderness Trail Adventure: $180
  • Alpine Zipline Adventure in Juneau, AK: $257
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $123
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $145
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Juneau Highlights and Mendenhall Glacier Tour: $129
  • Juneau Lighthouse Tours - Whale watching & Lighthouse Combo: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Juneau

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

  • Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau's Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!: $159
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops: $159


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



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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Juneau in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Acadia National Park as well as Juneau. Many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Acadia National Park is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 69°F (21°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Acadia National Park usually gets less rain in July than Juneau. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

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

Both Juneau and Acadia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Acadia National Park is much warmer than Juneau in the autumn. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In October, Acadia National Park usually receives less rain than Juneau. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

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

Both Juneau and Acadia National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the winter. The weather in Acadia National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Acadia National Park is much colder than Juneau. Typically, the winter temperatures in Acadia National Park in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Juneau averages at about 24°F (-4°C).

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Acadia National Park usually gets less rain in January than Juneau. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Juneau. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Juneau for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In April, Acadia National Park is generally a little warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 43°F (6°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In April, Acadia National Park usually receives more rain than Juneau. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)