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

Should you visit Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a maritime, authentic, and blue collar city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Norfolk 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. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Adirondack Mountains travel costs.

Norfolk and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Adirondack Mountains. Although Norfolk and Adirondack Mountains are popular destinations, Adirondack Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Adirondack Mountains is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. It is also well known for Whiteface Mountain. Norfolk is famous for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a skiing destination.


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

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Both Norfolk and Adirondack Mountains have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Both Norfolk and Adirondack Mountains offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Adirondack Mountains has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

It's hard to distinguish whether Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains has a better nightlife scene.

Norfolk has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

If you're looking for night time activities Adirondack Mountains has a few options to choose from. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.


Is Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Adirondack Mountains is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

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

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Shopping is a popular activity in both Adirondack Mountains and Norfolk.

Norfolk is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Adirondack Mountains. 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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains More Beautiful?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Adirondack Mountains is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful lakes and waterfalls, serene settings, and striking viewpoints make this a beautiful destination where you can escape into nature.

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Adirondack Mountains is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Adirondack Mountains frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.


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

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

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

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

Norfolk 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 Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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

Is Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Adirondack Mountains

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

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

Both Norfolk 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 Norfolk. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 3-7 days is enough time in Adirondack Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7

One day in Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

Many people visit Norfolk for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Norfolk. 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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

The authentic destination of Norfolk offers nightlife and food. 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.

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 The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Adirondack Mountains or Norfolk?

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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $202, 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 Norfolk and Adirondack Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Norfolk $84
    Adirondack Mountains $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Norfolk $168
    Adirondack Mountains $194
Compare Hotels in Norfolk and Adirondack Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk 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 Norfolk


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: Norfolk Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Adirondack Mountains $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Adirondack Mountains and Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $85
    Adirondack Mountains $85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Norfolk.

  • City Cruises Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise: $57
  • City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise : $103
  • 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks: $210

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Norfolk $14
    Adirondack Mountains $17

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin: $40
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $42
  • Half-Day Self-Guided Tour E-Bike Rental in Norfolk: $75
  • City Cruises Signature Lunch Cruise: $84

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Norfolk $10
    Adirondack Mountains $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Norfolk Bar Crawl: $15


When comparing the travel costs between Norfolk and Adirondack Mountains, we can see that Norfolk 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 Norfolk Expensive? and Is Adirondack Mountains Expensive?.



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

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 Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Adirondack Mountains. The summer months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Adirondack Mountains this time of year.

In the summer, Norfolk is a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Norfolk in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Adirondack Mountains this time of the year. In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Adirondack Mountains during summer. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

Norfolk gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Adirondack Mountains. The shopping scene are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Norfolk is generally much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 62°F (16°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In the autumn, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 144 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets more rain in October than Adirondack Mountains. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Adirondack Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Norfolk. Norfolk is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 39°F (4°C) in January, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during winter. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Norfolk during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Adirondack Mountains for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Norfolk is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Norfolk in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In Adirondack Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the spring, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 210 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets less rain in April than Adirondack Mountains. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Norfolk

Norfolk Adirondack Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)