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

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

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

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

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a wonder-filled, unique, and iconic town. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Cape Canaveral travel costs.

Acadia National Park

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

Cape Canaveral and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 shopping


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Canaveral. Although Cape Canaveral and Acadia National Park are popular destinations, Cape Canaveral has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Canaveral is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cape Canaveral is famous for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. It is also well known for The Kennedy Space Center. Acadia National Park is famous for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

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

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

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Cape Canaveral is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Canaveral has many famous sights for visitors. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

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 Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

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

Cape Canaveral is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

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 Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

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

Is Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Cape Canaveral is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Cape Canaveral has a few great resort options. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Both Cape Canaveral and Acadia National Park have nice beaches worth visiting.

Cape Canaveral has a beach worth visiting. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

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 Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

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

Cape Canaveral has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.


Is Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park More Beautiful?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a great national park for its scenery and beauty. However, Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Acadia National Park attracts visitors from all around. The dramatic ocean views and beautiful hiking trails make this a popular and scenic national park.

Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Cape Canaveral is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cape Canaveral is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

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 Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Cape Canaveral is a very popular place for couples. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cape Canaveral makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

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


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

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Canaveral is not known 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.

Cape Canaveral is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You won't find any hostels in the area, but you may have some luck finding affordable accommodation nearby.

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

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known 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 Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

Is Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Acadia National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.


For even more information, also check out Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acadia National Park or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Canaveral and Acadia National Park. In our opinion, Cape Canaveral has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cape Canaveral than Acadia National Park. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cape Canaveral. 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 Cape Canaveral has to offer.

In Acadia National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

Cape Canaveral 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Acadia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Cape Canaveral for five days. You'll find museums and food around the town of Cape Canaveral. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acadia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

The iconic destination of Cape Canaveral offers food and shopping. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park of Acadia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Cape Canaveral?

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

  • Cape Canaveral Prices
    USA Prices
    Acadia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Canaveral $251
    Acadia National Park $206

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $251, while the average daily cost in Acadia National Park is $206. 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 Cape Canaveral and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Acadia National Park $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $167
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Vistana Centre Drive: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Pointe Orlando: $252
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Int Airport: $100
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $236
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Altamonte Springs: $269
  • Private SUV Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Theme Parks: $210
  • Private SUV Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO : $215
  • Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer: $155
  • Port Canaveral to MCO Orlando Airport One Way Private Transfers: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Cape Canaveral 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
    Cape Canaveral $74
    Acadia National Park $78

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.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Acadia National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $80
  • Canaveral Private Fishing Charter Experience,: $55
  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $56
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • Cocoa Beach: Aerial Adventure Park Ticket: $56
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • Kennedy Space Center from Port Canaveral & return to Cruise Ship : $70
  • Port Canaveral: Airboat Wildlife Tour with Gator Encounter: $97
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Acadia National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Canaveral and Acadia National Park, we can see that Cape Canaveral is more expensive. And not only is Acadia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Acadia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Acadia National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cape Canaveral would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Canaveral than you might in Acadia National Park.

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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Acadia National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Acadia National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Cape Canaveral gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Acadia National Park. The shopping scene are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Canaveral in October average around 74°F (24°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Cape Canaveral receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Acadia National Park. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park in the Winter?

Both Acadia National Park and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Acadia National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cape Canaveral is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 60°F (15°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Acadia National Park in the Spring?

Both Acadia National Park and Cape Canaveral during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in April than Acadia National Park. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)