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

Should you visit San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Antonio and Acadia National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a fun, historic, and cultural city. San Antonio offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See San Antonio travel costs.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a picturesque, beautiful, and scenic national park. Acadia National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking. See Acadia National Park travel costs.

San Antonio and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Antonio than Acadia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Antonio is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Acadia National Park is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Acadia National Park is more touristy than San Antonio and is popular for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. San Antonio is well known for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. Also, San Antonio is famous for The Alamo.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to San Antonio can be an interesting and educational experience. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

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 San Antonio or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

San Antonio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

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 San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in San Antonio. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

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

Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for Music?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep San Antonio active and fun. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.


Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a good destination for its beaches. However, San Antonio is not a beach destination.

Acadia National Park offers a nice beach destination. 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.

San Antonio is not a beach destination.

Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Acadia National Park does not have a historic old town.

San Antonio has an old town worth visiting. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Acadia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

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

San Antonio is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

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

San Antonio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

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

Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park More Beautiful?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

Acadia National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The dramatic ocean views and beautiful hiking trails make this a popular and scenic national park.

San Antonio is a beautiful place to visit, too. The RiverWalk feels almost like a European city and its filled with colors and festiveness.

Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

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 San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio and Acadia National Park both notable destinations for a couple.

San Antonio is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

Acadia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a good destination for backpackers. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

San Antonio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While its not on most backpacker's lists, it does have a fun atmosphere and a social setting.

Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park Better for Students?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit San Antonio. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.


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

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both San Antonio and Acadia National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Is San Antonio or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

San Antonio
Acadia National Park

San Antonio and Acadia National Park both are respectable when exploring on foot.

San Antonio is generally not very walkable. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Acadia National Park or San Antonio?

How long in San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Antonio and Acadia National Park. In our opinion, San Antonio has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Antonio than Acadia National Park. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Antonio, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio than Acadia National Park 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 San Antonio.


  • How many days in San Antonio or Acadia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Antonio 2-3 
    Acadia National Park 1-3

One day in San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of San Antonio. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the picturesque national park of Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

San Antonio 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Acadia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit San Antonio for five days. You'll find shopping and museums around the city of San Antonio. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The beautiful national park of Acadia National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

The colorful destination of San Antonio offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Acadia National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or San Antonio?

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

  • San Antonio Prices
    USA Prices
    Acadia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Antonio $161
    Acadia National Park $206

The average daily cost (per person) in San Antonio is $161, 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 San Antonio and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Antonio $69
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Antonio $138
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in San Antonio and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Antonio 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 San Antonio


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Antonio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Antonio $20
    Acadia National Park $46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68
  • San Antonio to San Antonio Airport (SAT) - Departure Private Transfer: $73
  • San Antonio Airport (SAT) to San Antonio - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $146
  • San Antonio Airport (SAT) to San Antonio - Arrival Private Transfer: $73
  • Private Transfer in a Luxury Vehicle to and/or from SAT Airport: $50
  • Private One-way Transfer from San Antonio Airport to San Antonio: $74
  • Private One Way Transfer from San Antonio to San Antonio Airport : $74

Is it cheaper to fly into San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $69
    Acadia National Park $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

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

  • Asian Dumplings Cooking Class in San Antonio: $75
  • Asian Dumpling Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $80
  • San Antonio Centre Food Tour of 6 Tastings with Tacos & Ice Cream: $95
  • San Antonio Secret Food Tour - Tacos, BBQ & Tex-Mex Classics: $100
  • San Antonio Premium Night Driving Tour with Dinner & Cruise: $159

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.
    San Antonio $36
    Acadia National Park $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

Here are a few typical costs in San Antonio for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

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

  • 1/2-day San Antonio Alamo Legends Walk guided Small Group tour : $129
  • 3 Hours Private Historic Sightseeing Tour in San Antonio : $95
  • Buckhorn Saloon & Museum / Texas Ranger Museum Entry Ticket: $18
  • Cave Without a Name Admission Ticket with Guided Cavern Tour: $28
  • Go City San Antonio Explorer Pass: Tickets for 2-5 Attractions: $104
  • Gruene and River Road Self-guided Tour: $139
  • Half-Day Morning City Tour of Historic San Antonio: $75
  • Historic Downtown & Riverwalk Walking Tour: $39
  • Hopscotch San Antonio Immersive Art Experience: $24
  • King William District Tour: $35
  • PRIVATE Missions and More - Half-day City Tour: $189
  • Private Axe Throwing Experience in San Antonio TX: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Antonio -
    Acadia National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • San Antonio Texas Bar Crawl: Drinks Up in San Antonio!: $15
  • Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • River City: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Ghost Bus Haunted Pub Crawl: $62
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $179
  • Fredericksburg Hill Country Aficionado Wine Tour from San Antonio: $229


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

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



When is the best time to visit San Antonio or Acadia National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit San Antonio or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Antonio as well as Acadia National Park. Many visitors come to San Antonio in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, San Antonio is generally a little warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 87°F (31°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

San Antonio usually gets less rain in July than Acadia National Park. San Antonio gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    San Antonio 87°F (31°C) 
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Acadia National Park in the Autumn?

Both Acadia National Park and San Antonio are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Antonio for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

San Antonio is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Antonio averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, San Antonio usually receives around the same amount of rain as Acadia National Park. San Antonio gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    San Antonio 73°F (23°C) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Acadia National Park in the Winter?

Both Acadia National Park and San Antonio during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to San Antonio because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Acadia National Park in the winter. In the winter, San Antonio is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Antonio in January average around 54°F (12°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 18°F (-8°C).

San Antonio usually gets less rain in January than Acadia National Park. San Antonio gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Antonio 54°F (12°C) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Acadia National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Antonio and Acadia National Park. The natural beauty are the main draw to San Antonio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, San Antonio is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 74°F (23°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, San Antonio usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. San Antonio gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Antonio 74°F (23°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and San Antonio

San Antonio Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 54°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 57°F (14°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 84°F (29°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)