A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chattanooga vs. Portland, Maine for Hiking, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Portland, Maine? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a picturesque, seaside, and laid-back coastal town. With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Chattanooga and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

Both Portland, Maine and Chattanooga have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Chattanooga is very popular for its museums and attractions and hiking, while Portland, Maine attracts visitors for its beaches and impressive beauty. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Chattanooga different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

Chattanooga is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chattanooga. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Chattanooga and Portland, Maine can be an enjoyable experience.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chattanooga area. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Chattanooga or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Chattanooga or Portland, Maine has a better nightlife scene.

Chattanooga has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Chattanooga or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a great destination for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Portland, Maine is considered a top beach destination. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Is Chattanooga or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland, Maine and Chattanooga.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga to go shopping. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Chattanooga or Portland, Maine More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chattanooga or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Chattanooga or Portland, Maine.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Chattanooga. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Chattanooga or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Chattanooga and Portland, Maine make for a nice place to visit.

Chattanooga is a good city for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Chattanooga or Portland, Maine Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chattanooga is well known for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Chattanooga can get you to most places easily. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Chattanooga or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Chattanooga is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting? and Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chattanooga and Portland, Maine. In our opinion, Chattanooga has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chattanooga than Portland, Maine. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chattanooga than Portland, Maine 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 Chattanooga.

One day in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

The outdoorsy destination of Chattanooga offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the seaside coastal town of Portland, Maine. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

The city of Chattanooga offers food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the seaside destination of Portland, Maine. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The seaside coastal town of Portland, Maine offers shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chattanooga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Portland, Maine. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Chattanooga and Portland, Maine, we can see that Portland, Maine 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 Chattanooga Expensive? and Is Portland, Maine Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Portland, Maine, 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 Chattanooga or Portland, Maine?

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 Chattanooga or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

Both Portland, Maine and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Portland, Maine in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during summer. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Chattanooga during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chattanooga is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the autumn, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga usually gets less rain in October than Portland, Maine. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Portland, Maine. Many travelers come to Chattanooga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland, Maine can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Chattanooga. In January, Chattanooga is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Chattanooga usually receives less sunshine than Portland, Maine during winter. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Portland, Maine. Additionally, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In the spring, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the spring. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in April than Portland, Maine. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Chattanooga