A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Acadia National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a serene, beautiful, and scenic national park. With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a scenic, picturesque, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, Acadia National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Acadia National Park travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shenandoah National Park. Although Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park are popular destinations, Shenandoah National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Shenandoah National Park is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its beaches. Shenandoah National Park is famous for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. It is also well known for Skyline Drive. Acadia National Park is famous for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

How is Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Acadia National Park is not a skiing destination.

Head to Shenandoah National Park for some great skiing and other winter activities. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Acadia National Park is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of reasonable museums and attractions in both Acadia National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

While most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at reasonable restaurants in both Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park.

Shenandoah National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

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

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Shenandoah National Park. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park is a national park with good options for the beach. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Acadia National Park. 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Shenandoah National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park?

Shenandoah National Park is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Shenandoah National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park.

With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

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.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park are high quality to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shenandoah National Park. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place for couples. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Shenandoah National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

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

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Shenandoah National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

Acadia National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

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

Acadia National Park is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Acadia National Park or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than in Acadia National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park.

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing when visiting the beautiful destination of Shenandoah National Park. 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.

With around the scenic national park of Acadia National Park, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park?

Shenandoah National Park is a fun place to experience. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With around the picturesque destination of Acadia National Park, there's plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Shenandoah National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the skiing when visiting the beautiful national park of Shenandoah National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

You'll find around the scenic national park of Acadia National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park?

The breathtaking destination of Shenandoah National Park offers skiing. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Acadia National Park is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park, we can see that Acadia National Park is more expensive. And not only is Shenandoah National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shenandoah National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park.

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

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

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 Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Acadia National Park. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Shenandoah National Park is a little warmer than Acadia National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

In July, Shenandoah National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Acadia National Park. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Acadia National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

In the autumn, Shenandoah National Park is a little warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Acadia National Park. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park in the Winter?

Both Acadia National Park and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Acadia National Park. It's quite cold in Shenandoah National Park in the winter. In January, Shenandoah National Park is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 32°F (-0°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Shenandoah National Park usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Acadia National Park in the Spring?

Both Acadia National Park and Shenandoah National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Acadia National Park. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Shenandoah National Park