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

Should you visit Bangor or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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 friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping. See Bangor travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Seattle offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food. See Seattle travel costs.

Bangor and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle


Is there more to do in Bangor or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Bangor and Seattle are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bangor attracts visitors for its small town charm. Seattle is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle. Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seattle 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 Seattle?

Bangor
Seattle

Seattle 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 Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

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 Bangor or Seattle Better for Theater?

Bangor
Seattle

Seattle is a city with good options for its shows and theatre. However, Bangor is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Bangor is not a theatre destination.

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

Bangor
Seattle

Seattle 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 Seattle is an experience not to be missed. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Bangor or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Seattle

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

Seattle offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Bangor
Seattle

Seattle is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Bangor is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle is very popular with diverse venues. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Bangor is not a live music destination.

Is Bangor or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Bangor
Seattle

Seattle is a city with good options for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is Bangor or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Seattle

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

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Seattle?

Bangor
Seattle

Both Bangor and Seattle are nice 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Bangor or Seattle More Beautiful?

Bangor
Seattle

Seattle is a city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

Seattle offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bangor or Seattle Better for Families?

Bangor
Seattle

Both Bangor and Seattle are nice to visit with kids.

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

Seattle is a family-friendly town. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.


Is Bangor or Seattle Better for Couples?

Bangor
Seattle

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

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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 Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangor
Seattle

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

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

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 Seattle Better for Students?

Bangor
Seattle

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

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Bangor is not popular with students.


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

Bangor
Seattle

Seattle 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.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Seattle a more walkable city?

Bangor
Seattle

Seattle 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.

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Seattle?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.


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

One day in Bangor or Seattle?

In Bangor, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Seattle is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Seattle?

In Bangor, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangor has to offer.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

Bangor is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangor. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Bangor. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the outdoorsy big city of Seattle. 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Seattle 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
    Seattle Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bangor $237
    Seattle $242

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $237, while the average daily cost in Seattle is $242. 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 Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in Bangor or Seattle? 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 Seattle


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 Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Seattle $30

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • Transfer Pier 91 to International SeaTac Airport One Way: $27
  • One - Way Transfer from Pier 66 to SeaTac international Airport : $27
  • One-Way Seattle Airport Transfer Service: $27
  • One-Way Transfer: Pier 91 to Airport : $28
  • One-Way Transfer: SeaTac Airport to Seattle Piers 66 & 91: $28
  • SEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|Hotels: $37
  • Private Transfer from Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Airport SEA: $38
  • Private Transfer from Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Seattle Airport SEA to Smith Cove Terminal: $38
  • Seattle Airport Transfer – One Way or Round Trip (SUV / VAN): $45
  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport private transfer. Pick up: $47
  • Seattle to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Seattle?

Prices for flights to both Seattle 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
    Seattle $88

Typical Food Prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

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

  • Meet Me at the Market Food Tour: $44
  • Meet Me at the Market Food Tour: $44
  • Seattle Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $71
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market: $72
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $73
  • Traditional Japanese Ramen Cooking Class in Seattle: $75
  • Japanese Ramen Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Street Food Tour of South Lake Union- Area of Amazon Spheres : $77
  • Festive Flavors of Pike Place Market Holiday Food Tour: $110
  • Pike Place Market Gourmet Food Tour: $115
  • Authentic Italian Cooking Class in Seattle (5-Course Meal): $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Seattle $16
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

Tours and Activities in Seattle

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

  • Experience Mining For Genuine Montana Sapphires in Seattle: $5.00
  • Seattle Downtown Quest: Self-Guided History Adventure: $7.16
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Seattle by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Everett by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Seattle Audio Tour on Capital Hill Adventure: $15
  • Seattle Kraken Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $19
  • National Nordic Museum Entry Ticket: $20
  • Skip the Line: Daily Admission at Woodland Park Zoo Ticket: $20
  • Seattle City Walking Tour: Along the Waterfront: $22
  • Seattle Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Smith Tower Observatory Access Ticket: $25
  • Sky View Observatory at the Columbia Center Admission Tickets : $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Seattle $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Seattle:

  • Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Woodinville's Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Diverse Wine Tasting Experience with Bites: $75
  • Woodinville Guided Wine Tour with Optional Tastings: $109
  • Hollywood Artisan Wine Tasting Experience: $249
  • All-inclusive Wine Tasting and Lunch Experience: $249
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $344


When comparing the travel costs between Bangor and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Bangor or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Bangor and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bangor is around the same temperature as Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 69°F (21°C) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In July, Bangor usually receives more rain than Seattle. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Seattle 67°F (19°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Bangor during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Bangor because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In the autumn, Bangor is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangor in October average around 48°F (9°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Bangor usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Seattle. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Bangor or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Seattle. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bangor this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bangor in the winter. In January, Bangor is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 18°F (-8°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Bangor usually receives less rain than Seattle. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Seattle 42°F (5°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm. Additionally, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Bangor is much colder than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Seattle 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Seattle and Bangor

Bangor Seattle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 42°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 67°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 67°F (19°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 47°F (8°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 42°F (6°C) 6 inches (152 mm)