A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangor vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Bangor or Niagara Falls?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangor and Niagara Falls 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.

Bangor

Bangor is a welcoming, friendly, and laid back town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Bangor travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a impressive, iconic, and breathtaking city. With stunning beauty, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Bangor and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bangor or Niagara Falls?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Niagara Falls. Although Bangor and Niagara Falls are both popular with visitors, Niagara Falls has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Niagara Falls is more popular for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is known for its museums and attractions and small town charm. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Bangor and is known for the large volume of water that flows over it. It is also home to the Journey Behind the Falls. Bangor is popular for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangor or Niagara Falls?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Bangor is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Niagara Falls is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

Bangor offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.


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

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Bangor and Niagara Falls can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Niagara Falls. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Bangor or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

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 Bangor or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Niagara Falls is a popular spot for hiking. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Niagara Falls?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Both Bangor and Niagara Falls are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Bangor to go shopping. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Niagara Falls. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Bangor or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from all around. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bangor or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Niagara Falls is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Bangor is a family-friendly town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.


Is Bangor or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a well-known place for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Niagara Falls is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

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 Bangor or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Niagara Falls is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

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

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Bangor is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Niagara Falls has a few public transit options. There is a bus system through town.

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


Is Bangor or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Bangor
Niagara Falls

Bangor and Niagara Falls both are good when exploring on foot.

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

Niagara Falls is somewhat walkable. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Niagara Falls?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bangor and Niagara Falls. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Niagara Falls than in Bangor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Bangor, and 2-3 days is enough time in Niagara Falls.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.


  • How many days in Bangor or Niagara Falls? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangor 1-2 
    Niagara Falls 2-3

One day in Bangor or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the friendly destination of Bangor. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Niagara Falls. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bangor or Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangor. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Niagara Falls 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.


Five days in Bangor or Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Bangor. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Niagara Falls. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bangor or Niagara Falls?

You'll find museums and food around the town of Bangor. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the impressive destination of Niagara Falls. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Niagara Falls or Bangor?

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

  • Bangor Prices
    USA Prices
    Niagara Falls Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bangor $237
    Niagara Falls $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $237, while the average daily cost in Niagara Falls is $149. 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 Bangor and Niagara Falls in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Niagara Falls $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Niagara Falls $152
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Niagara Falls

Looking for a hotel in Bangor or Niagara Falls? 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 Bangor


Hotels in Niagara Falls


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: Bangor Hotel Prices and Niagara Falls Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Niagara Falls $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Niagara Falls

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Niagara Falls:

  • Private Transfer Buffalo Airport BUF to Buffalo or Niagara Falls: $42
  • Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) to Buffalo - Arrival Private Transfer: $89
  • Buffalo to Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Buffalo Niagara Airport to Niagara Falls, Ontario: $95
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Buffalo Airport (BUF): $96
  • Shared Airport Transfer: Buffalo Niagara International Airport to Niagara Falls NY: $99
  • Niagara Buffalo Airport Arrival: Private Transfer to Niagara Falls Ontario: $101
  • Transfer Buffalo Niagara International Airport BUF to Niagara Falls,Canada: $101
  • Niagara Buffalo Airport Departure: Private Transfer to Buffalo Niagara Airport: $101
  • Transfer from Niagara Falls,Canada to Buffalo Niagara Int Airport (BUF): $102
  • Private Departure Transfer to Buffalo Airport (BUF): $104
  • Private Departure Transfer: Buffalo, NY to Buffalo Niagara International Airport: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Niagara Falls?

Prices for flights to both Niagara Falls and Bangor 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
    Bangor $93
    Niagara Falls $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Niagara Falls

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

  • The Wing Ride: The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Food Tour: $105
  • Guided Night Tour w/ Dinner & Hotel Transfer: $139
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake: Sunset Wine Tour with Dinner: $162
  • Sunset Niagara-on-the-Lake Small Group Wine Tour with Dinner: $177
  • Night Tour w/ 3 Course Dinner & Light Show: $193
  • Night Tour with Fireworks Boat Ride & Dinner: $197
  • Night on Niagara Walking Tour with Fireworks Cruise + Dinner: $197
  • Niagara Falls USA Night, Lights & Dinner : $199
  • Niagara Falls Canada: Premium Night Tour with Boat & Dinner: $215
  • Niagara Falls Premium Night Tour: Fireworks Boat Cruise & Dinner: $242
  • Day & Night Tour with Boat Ride and Dinner: $279
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake Private Wine and Dinner Tour in Private SUV: $287

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Niagara Falls $19
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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Niagara Falls

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


  • Maid of the Mist
    $37

Tours and Activities in Niagara Falls

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Niagara Falls are as follows:

  • Niagara Peninsula: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $8.84
  • Explore Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.99
  • RiverBrink Art Museum: Historical Walking Tour of Queenston: $11
  • Niagara Adventure Theater Experience with Popcorn included: $11
  • Niagara Legends of Adventure Admission Ticket with Popcorn: $12
  • Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Niagara Falls, Canada: Niagara SkyWheel Ticket: $12
  • Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Admission and Guided Tour: $13
  • Tower Hotel Observation Deck Ticket: $13
  • Niagara Falls Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket: $13
  • Niagara Falls Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour from Toronto: $14
  • Niagara Falls, Canada: Canadiana - The Musical Ticket: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Niagara Falls $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Niagara Falls

Also in Niagara Falls, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Summer Sips - Private Outdoor Wine Tasting Experience: $22
  • Black Glass Wine Tasting: $23
  • Niagara's Decadent Sparkling and Icewine Tasting: $23
  • Niagara Wine Tour and Tastings with Included Transportation : $59
  • Public Niagara Wine Tour with Transportation: $61
  • Half-Day Niagara Micro Brewery Tour: $111
  • Half Day Wine & Cheese Tour - Niagara On The Lake Wine Tour: $118
  • Beer and Wine Tour in Niagara-on-the-Lake: $119
  • Niagara Craft Brewery Tour Niagara Falls: $122
  • Vine and Dine Bicycle Wine Tour with Lunch : $125
  • Vintage Wine Tour In Niagara County USA: $139
  • Relaxing three courses Lunch & Wine Tour through Niagara's Wine Country: $147


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bangor or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Bangor and Niagara Falls, 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 Bangor or Niagara Falls?

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 Bangor or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

Both Niagara Falls and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bangor is generally cooler than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 69°F (21°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In July, Bangor usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Niagara Falls 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Bangor or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

Both Niagara Falls and Bangor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bangor in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bangor is cooler than Niagara Falls in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Bangor usually gets more rain in October than Niagara Falls. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangor 48°F (9°C) 
    Niagara Falls 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Bangor or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Niagara Falls. Most visitors come to Bangor for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Niagara Falls can be very cold. Bangor can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bangor is much colder than Niagara Falls. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangor in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about -4°C (26°F).

In January, Bangor usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Niagara Falls -4°C (26°F)

Should I visit Bangor or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Niagara Falls. The spring months attract visitors to Bangor because of the small town charm. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

In April, Bangor is generally much colder than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 43°F (6°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Bangor usually gets more rain in April than Niagara Falls. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Niagara Falls 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Bangor

Bangor Niagara Falls
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) -4°C (26°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) -3°C (28°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 10°C (49°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 15°C (59°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 20°C (68°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 23°C (74°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 22°C (72°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 6°C (43°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) -0°C (31°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)