A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bar Harbor vs. Denali National Park for Food, Couples, Resorts, and Hiking

Should you visit Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bar Harbor and Denali National Park 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.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a picturesque, relaxed, and quaint coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of Bar Harbor is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, food, and beaches. See Bar Harbor travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a vast, rugged, and spectacular park. You'll find world class beauty in Denali National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Bar Harbor and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bar Harbor. Although Bar Harbor and Denali National Park are popular destinations, Bar Harbor has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bar Harbor is very popular for its food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Denali National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and impressive beauty. Bar Harbor is famous for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park. It is also well known for Acadia National Park. Denali National Park is famous for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is Bar Harbor different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a moderate park for its sights and museums. However, Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.

Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Bar Harbor is a great coastal town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Denali National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bar Harbor has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

Denali National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Neither Bar Harbor or Denali National Park offer decent nightlife.

People don't go to Bar Harbor for the nightlife. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Denali National Park doesn't offer many options. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

If luxury resorts are your style, both Bar Harbor and Denali National Park have nice options.

Bar Harbor has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.

With a selection of resorts, Denali National Park makes a nice vacation spot. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.


Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park Better for Beaches?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Bar Harbor is very good for the beach. However, Denali National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Bar Harbor to enjoy the beach. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Denali National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Both Bar Harbor and Denali National Park are destinations which offer nice hiking.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Bar Harbor. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.

Denali National Park offers some nice hiking trails. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Is the Shopping Better in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Bar Harbor is a great coastal town for its shopping opportunities. However, Denali National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Bar Harbor is well-known for its shopping. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.


Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Denali National Park as well. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

The beauty of Bar Harbor is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Surrounded by the water and beautiful landscaping, the town offers visitors plenty of beauty.

Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Both Bar Harbor and Denali National Park are nice to visit with kids.

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly coastal town. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Both Bar Harbor and Denali National Park are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bar Harbor is a very popular place to visit for couples. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

Denali National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.


Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is terrific for backpackers. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Denali National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

Bar Harbor is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's a small town with mostly high end accommodation so budget travelers and backpackers will struggle to find a place to stay.

Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Both Bar Harbor and Denali National Park offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.

Public transit is mostly limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Is Bar Harbor or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Bar Harbor
Denali National Park

Bar Harbor is a great coastal town for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Bar Harbor is a very walkable coastal town. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

Denali National Park is not a walkable coastal town. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.


For even more information, also check out Is Bar Harbor Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Bar Harbor?

How long in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denali National Park than Bar Harbor 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 Denali National Park.


  • How many days in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bar Harbor 2-3 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

Bar Harbor is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

With around the vast park of Denali National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

Bar Harbor 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 coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With around the destination of Denali National Park, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park.

Five days in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Bar Harbor for five days. Bar Harbor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Denali National Park, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

Because Bar Harbor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Denali National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or Bar Harbor?

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

  • Bar Harbor Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bar Harbor $243
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Bar Harbor is $243, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. 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 Bar Harbor and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bar Harbor $117
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bar Harbor $234
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Bar Harbor and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bar Harbor or Denali 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 Bar Harbor


Hotels in Denali 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: Bar Harbor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bar Harbor $35
    Denali National Park $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Bar Harbor 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
    Bar Harbor $98
    Denali National Park $98
Typical Food Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • West Street Cafe (for 4)
    $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bar Harbor $39
    Denali National Park $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bar Harbor

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


  • Acadia National Park Entrance Fee
    $25
  • Sunset Cruise (for 4)
    $96

Tours and Activities in Bar Harbor

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

  • 4 Hour Private Tour: Acadia, Fjord, Gardens & Mansions: $700
  • 90-minute Ghost Walking Tour in Bar Harbor: $33
  • Acadia Fat tire Ebike Tours: $190
  • Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike: $427
  • Acadia Mount Desert Island Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $25
  • Acadia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Acadia's Ocean Path Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Bar Harbor Premium Driving Tour With Thunder Hole & Acadia: $159
  • Bar Harbor Premium Tour with Cadillac Mountain and Acadia Park: $149
  • Bar Harbor Walking Tour: $30
  • Bar Harbor, Maine: Culinary Walking Tour with Tastings: $160

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • Midnight Sun ATV Adventure 2.5 Hour Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • Wilds of Alaska Classic ATV Adventure: $153
  • Winter Side by Side ATV Tour: $160
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bar Harbor $30
    Denali National Park $12


When comparing the travel costs between Bar Harbor and Denali National Park, we can see that Denali 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 Bar Harbor Expensive? and Is Denali National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Bar Harbor or Denali National Park?

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 Bar Harbor or Denali National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bar Harbor as well as Denali National Park. Many visitors come to Bar Harbor in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Denali National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Bar Harbor is a little warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bar Harbor in July average around 69°F (21°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

Bar Harbor usually gets less rain in July than Denali National Park. Bar Harbor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bar Harbor 69°F (21°C) 
    Denali National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Denali National Park in the Autumn?

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

The weather in Denali National Park can be very cold. In October, Bar Harbor is generally much warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in Bar Harbor average around 48°F (9°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In October, Bar Harbor usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. Bar Harbor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bar Harbor 48°F (9°C) 
    Denali National Park 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Denali National Park in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Denali National Park in the winter. The weather in Bar Harbor can be very cold. Bar Harbor is much warmer than Denali National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Bar Harbor averages around 18°F (-8°C) in January, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 11°F (-12°C).

Bar Harbor usually gets more rain in January than Denali National Park. Bar Harbor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bar Harbor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Denali National Park 11°F (-12°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Denali National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bar Harbor and Denali National Park. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Bar Harbor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Denali National Park for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Denali National Park. In the spring, Bar Harbor is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bar Harbor in April average around 43°F (6°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 34°F (1°C).

In April, Bar Harbor usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. Bar Harbor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bar Harbor 43°F (6°C) 
    Denali National Park 34°F (1°C)

Typical Weather for Denali National Park and Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor Denali National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 11°F (-12°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 16°F (-9°C) 1.4 inches (37 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 23°F (-5°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 56°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (108 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 32°F (0°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)