A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Arlington vs. Bangor for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Arlington or Bangor?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Bangor, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arlington

Arlington is a educational, international, and historical city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Arlington travel costs.

Bangor

Bangor is a friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Bangor travel costs.

Arlington and Bangor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Bangor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arlington. Although Arlington and Bangor are popular destinations, Arlington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arlington is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, and nightlife, while Bangor attracts visitors for its small town charm. Arlington is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. It is also well known for Arlington National Cemetery. Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town.

How is Arlington different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arlington or Bangor?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.


Is the Food Better in Arlington or Bangor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Arlington is an experience not to be missed. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Arlington or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Arlington offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Bangor?

Arlington
Bangor

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Arlington and Bangor.

Arlington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Bangor is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.


Is Arlington or Bangor Better for Families?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington and Bangor are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Arlington is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bangor. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Arlington or Bangor Better for Couples?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington is a city with good options for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Arlington is a good city for couples to visit. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Arlington or Bangor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Arlington is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.


Is Arlington or Bangor Better for Students?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington is a well-known place for students. However, Bangor is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Bangor is not popular with students.

Is Arlington or Bangor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Bangor is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Arlington is top-notch. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Is Arlington or Bangor a more walkable city?

Arlington
Bangor

Arlington is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Arlington is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Bangor is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Bangor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Arlington or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Arlington than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Arlington, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Bangor 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 Arlington.


  • How many days in Arlington or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Arlington or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arlington. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Bangor. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangor has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Bangor?

Arlington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the friendly destination of Bangor. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Arlington or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arlington. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid back town of Bangor. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Arlington or Bangor?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the international destination of Arlington. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bangor is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bangor or Arlington?

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

  • Arlington Prices
    USA Prices
    Bangor Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Arlington $323
    Bangor $237

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $323, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $237. 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 Arlington and Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Bangor? 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 Arlington


Hotels in Bangor


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: Arlington Hotel Prices and Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Bangor $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor and Arlington 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
    Arlington $139
    Bangor $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Bangor $45

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Bangor $23


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Bangor?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Arlington and Bangor, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Arlington or Bangor?

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 Arlington or Bangor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Bangor. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arlington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Arlington is a little warmer than Bangor in the summer. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Bangor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Arlington usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bangor. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Bangor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Bangor in the Autumn?

Both Bangor and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arlington for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bangor in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Arlington is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arlington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Bangor averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In October, Arlington usually receives less rain than Bangor. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Bangor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Bangor in the Winter?

Both Bangor and Arlington during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arlington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bangor for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bangor can be very cold during winter. Arlington can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Arlington is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 35°F (1°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Arlington usually gets less rain in January than Bangor. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Bangor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Bangor. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bangor because of the small town charm.

Arlington is much warmer than Bangor in the spring. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Bangor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Arlington usually receives less rain than Bangor. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Bangor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bangor and Arlington

Arlington Bangor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)