A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Detroit vs. Adirondack Mountains for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Adirondack Mountains, 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a hardworking, overlooked , and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums. See Detroit travel costs.

Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a serene, pristine, and scenic region. The beauty of Adirondack Mountains is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Adirondack Mountains travel costs.

Detroit and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 walkable


Is there more to do in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Detroit than Adirondack Mountains, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Detroit is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Adirondack Mountains is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Adirondack Mountains is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. Detroit is well known for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. Also, Detroit is famous for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Detroit is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Adirondack Mountains is a great destination to visit. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Detroit is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Detroit and Adirondack Mountains.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Adirondack Mountains. You can learn about local culture and heritage at any of the museums in the area. At the Adirondack Experience you can visit a vast campus that offers an open-air experience relating to the region's history. Other educational centers in the area include a wildlife center, several art museums, as well as battlefields, forts, and war museums.

Is the Food Better in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Dining out at restaurants in both Detroit and Adirondack Mountains can be an enjoyable experience.

Detroit has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Adirondack Mountains area. Steakhouses, pancake shops, and local diners all serve up fresh and local dishes. Many visitors like to pack a picnic that they can enjoy along a hiking trail, but if you're looking for a sit down option, there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Is Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Detroit is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its evening party scene.

Detroit has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Adirondack Mountains. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.


Is Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Music?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Detroit is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Detroit 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.

Adirondack Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Lodges and inns fill with vacationers who enjoy the pools and scenic settings that many of the resorts offer. Many places have a summer camp atmosphere that feels both wholesome and adventurous.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains 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 Adirondack Mountains. Trails range from easy to challenging and each passes through beautiful and diverse landscapes. You can climb to scenic viewpoints or explore pristine forests. It's the perfect way to escape into nature for a bit.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Detroit and Adirondack Mountains.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Many visitors go to Adirondack Mountains to go shopping. Many of the towns have a "general store" where you can pick up souvenirs or local items. There are also local artisan shops and even outlet malls in the area.

Is Detroit or Adirondack Mountains More Beautiful?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Adirondack Mountains is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful lakes and waterfalls, serene settings, and striking viewpoints make this a beautiful destination where you can escape into nature.

Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains 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, Adirondack Mountains is very family-friendly. There area is filled with ropes courses, adventure parks, and hiking trails. There are nature centers with information programs for young ones. The kids will also be a enchanted by the waterfalls as the adults are.

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 Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Adirondack Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many lodges and inns that are tucked away in the mountains and make for a romantic retreat. Couples will enjoy the hiking and beautiful views. Whether you spend your time cozied up by the fire or out on an adventure, this is a wonderful romantic destination.

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 Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Adirondack Mountains. There are a number of campgrounds and even backcountry camping in the region. The hiking trails and beautiful setting make this a fun place to explore.

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 Detroit or Adirondack Mountains Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Detroit is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Adirondack Mountains. There is no real public transportation in the park.


Is Detroit or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Detroit
Adirondack Mountains

Detroit is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

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

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable city. While there are many hiking trails, to get around and access most destinations, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

Both Detroit and Adirondack Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than in Detroit. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 3-7 days is enough time in Adirondack Mountains.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Detroit 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 Adirondack Mountains.


  • How many days in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Detroit 1-3 
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7

One day in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

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.

In Adirondack Mountains, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

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.

In Adirondack Mountains, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

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.

Adirondack Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Adirondack Mountains has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Adirondack Mountains. In Adirondack Mountains, you'll find nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


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, Adirondack Mountains or Detroit?

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

  • Detroit Prices
    USA Prices
    Adirondack Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Detroit $165
    Adirondack Mountains $202

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $165, while the average daily cost in Adirondack Mountains is $202. 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 Detroit and Adirondack Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Adirondack Mountains $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Adirondack Mountains $194
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Adirondack Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Detroit or Adirondack Mountains? 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 Detroit


Hotels in Adirondack Mountains


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.
    Detroit $37
    Adirondack Mountains $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Adirondack Mountains and Detroit 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
    Detroit $76
    Adirondack Mountains $85

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.
    Detroit $21
    Adirondack Mountains $17

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Self Guided Detroit's Spirit and History Solo Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $11
  • Self-Guided Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Ann Arbor MI: $15
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $20
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • French History Tour of Detroit A Self-Guided Audio Tour App: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $22
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $23
  • Macabre, Murder, & Mayhem in Motor City: Detroit Ghost Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Adirondack Mountains $19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Detroit and Adirondack Mountains, we can see that Adirondack Mountains 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 Adirondack Mountains would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Adirondack Mountains 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 Detroit Expensive? and Is Adirondack Mountains Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Detroit or Adirondack Mountains?

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 Detroit or Adirondack Mountains in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Adirondack Mountains. Many visitors come to Detroit in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Detroit is around the same temperature as Adirondack Mountains in the summer. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 74°F (24°C) in July, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Adirondack Mountains. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In the summer, Detroit often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Detroit gets 319 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 285 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets more rain in July than Adirondack Mountains. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Detroit 74°F (24°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Adirondack Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Detroit is a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Detroit in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 49°F (9°C).

Detroit usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during autumn. Detroit gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Detroit usually receives less rain than Adirondack Mountains. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Detroit 54°F (12°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Detroit during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Detroit because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Adirondack Mountains this time of year.

It's quite cold in Adirondack Mountains in the winter. The weather in Detroit can be very cold. In January, Detroit is generally much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 25°F (-4°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In the winter, Detroit often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Adirondack Mountains. Detroit gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 124 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets less rain in January than Adirondack Mountains. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Adirondack Mountains. The activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the natural beauty.

Detroit is a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the spring. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 49°F (9°C) in April, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Adirondack Mountains this time of the year. In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. Detroit usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Adirondack Mountains during spring. Detroit gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Detroit usually receives around the same amount of rain as Adirondack Mountains. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Detroit 49°F (9°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Detroit

Detroit Adirondack Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Feb 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Mar 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Apr 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Nov 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Dec 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)