A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. Adirondack Mountains for Food, Couples, Resorts, and Hiking

Should you visit Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nantucket travel costs.

Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a scenic, serene, and pristine region. Adirondack Mountains is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Adirondack Mountains travel costs.

Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Adirondack Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing. Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse. Adirondack Mountains is famous for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests.

How is Nantucket different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is very good for skiing. However, Nantucket is not a skiing destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Nantucket is not a skiing destination.


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

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Adirondack Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Nantucket is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Adirondack Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains.

If you're looking for night time activities Nantucket has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Adirondack Mountains. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.


Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

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.

Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Nantucket is notable for the beach. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Nantucket is considered a top beach destination. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Nantucket is notable for its old town. However, Adirondack Mountains does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Adirondack Mountains does not have a historic old town.


Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

You'll find great hiking in both Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Nantucket is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Adirondack Mountains has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains More Beautiful?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains both are comparable with their great scenery and beauty.

Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

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.


Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains.

Nantucket is a very family-friendly destination. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Adirondack Mountains is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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.

Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Adirondack Mountains is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.


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

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Nantucket is a popular place for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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

Is Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Adirondack Mountains

Nantucket is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable island. 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 Nantucket Worth Visiting? and Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

Both Nantucket 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 Nantucket. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 3-7 days is enough time in Adirondack Mountains.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantucket 2-4 
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7

One day in Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

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

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the region of Adirondack Mountains. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

Nantucket is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic destination of Adirondack Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

Many people visit Nantucket for five days. Nantucket is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Don't miss the food, 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the serene region of Adirondack Mountains. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this region makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.

A week in Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

Because Nantucket is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Adirondack Mountains, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Adirondack Mountains or Nantucket?

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

  • Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
    Adirondack Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nantucket $409
    Adirondack Mountains $202

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $409, 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 Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Adirondack Mountains $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Adirondack Mountains $194
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket 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 Nantucket


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: Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Adirondack Mountains $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Adirondack Mountains and Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $141
    Adirondack Mountains $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    Adirondack Mountains $17

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

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

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Adirondack Mountains $19


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nantucket Expensive? and Is Adirondack Mountains Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains in the Summer?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Nantucket during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Adirondack Mountains because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nantucket is around the same temperature as Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantucket in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Nantucket usually gets more rain in July than Adirondack Mountains. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Adirondack Mountains. The autumn months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Adirondack Mountains this time of year.

In October, Nantucket is generally a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 53°F (12°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Adirondack Mountains. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Adirondack Mountains. It's quite cold in Nantucket in the winter. Nantucket is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nantucket usually gets more rain in January than Adirondack Mountains. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nantucket is around the same temperature as Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantucket in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 46°F (8°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In April, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Nantucket

Nantucket Adirondack Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)