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

Should you visit Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

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 Sarasota and Adirondack Mountains. 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a relaxing, entertaining, and underrated city. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Sarasota 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.

Sarasota and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Adirondack Mountains than Sarasota, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Adirondack Mountains is better known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota is more popular for its museums and attractions and beaches. Sarasota is well known for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Adirondack Mountains is well known for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. Also, Adirondack Mountains is famous for Whiteface Mountain.

How is Sarasota different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a good destination for skiing. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a skiing destination.


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

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Sarasota is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

Sarasota offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

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

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Sarasota and Adirondack Mountains.

Sarasota has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

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 Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

The vibe at night is notable in both Sarasota and Adirondack Mountains.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Adirondack Mountains to choose from. 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.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Is Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Sarasota is a popular place for the beach. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is great for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking trails. 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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

If you're looking to go shopping, Sarasota and Adirondack Mountains both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers 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 Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains More Beautiful?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Sarasota is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Sarasota is a very family-friendly destination. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Adirondack Mountains. 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 Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Adirondack Mountains is a great region if you're traveling as 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.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

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

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sarasota is not a good destination 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.

Sarasota is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are budget friendly places to stay, but there isn't a large backpacker or young crowd hanging around.

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

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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


Is Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Sarasota
Adirondack Mountains

Sarasota is a moderate city for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

Both Sarasota 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 Sarasota. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 3-7 days is enough time in Adirondack Mountains.

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

Couples should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Sarasota. 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sarasota 2-5 
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7

One day in Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sarasota. 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.

The beautiful region of Adirondack Mountains offers museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

Sarasota 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.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

Many people visit Sarasota for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the city of Sarasota. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Adirondack Mountains, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

The entertaining destination of Sarasota 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.

Adirondack Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Adirondack Mountains has to offer. This region offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Adirondack Mountains or Sarasota?

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

  • Sarasota Prices
    USA Prices
    Adirondack Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sarasota $350
    Adirondack Mountains $202

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $350, 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 Sarasota and Adirondack Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    Adirondack Mountains $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    Adirondack Mountains $194
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and Adirondack Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota 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 Sarasota


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: Sarasota Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    Adirondack Mountains $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

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

  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $55
  • Sarasota Airport(SRQ) to Anna Maria island hotel-Arrival Transfer: $125
  • Sarasota Airport (SRQ) to Anna Maria island - Round-Trip Transfer: $251

Is it cheaper to fly into Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Adirondack Mountains and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $238
    Adirondack Mountains $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    Adirondack Mountains $17

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Palmetto Ghost & History Tour by Silent Slayer Ghost Tours: $40
  • Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour: $55
  • Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour: $55
  • Siesta Key: Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboard Tour: $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure : $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
  • Siesta Key Guided Eco Tour: $59
  • Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour: $59
  • Glass Bottom Kayak Fish Feeding LED Night Tour: $59
  • Siesta Key Kayak Tour : $60
  • Sarasota Waterways Tour for All Ages: $60
  • Sharkey's Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Sarasota: $62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sarasota -
    Adirondack Mountains $19


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



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

Both Adirondack Mountains and Sarasota during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Sarasota is a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the summer. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In Adirondack Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the summer, Sarasota often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Adirondack Mountains. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 285 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than Adirondack Mountains. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Sarasota 82°F (28°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Adirondack Mountains. Many travelers come to Sarasota for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Sarasota is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sarasota in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 49°F (9°C).

In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during autumn. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Adirondack Mountains. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Sarasota 76°F (24°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Adirondack Mountains. Many visitors come to Sarasota in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Adirondack Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Adirondack Mountains can be very cold during winter. In January, Sarasota is generally much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 59°F (15°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the winter, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 124 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in January than Adirondack Mountains. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sarasota 59°F (15°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Adirondack Mountains because of the natural beauty.

Sarasota is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the spring. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

It's quite sunny in Adirondack Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during spring. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Adirondack Mountains. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Sarasota 73°F (23°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Sarasota

Sarasota Adirondack Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)