A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. Portland for Nightlife, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Gatlinburg or Portland?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Gatlinburg and Portland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and hiking. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Portland is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Portland travel costs.

Gatlinburg and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Gatlinburg and Portland are both popular with visitors, Gatlinburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, and resorts, while Portland is known for its music, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Portland and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also home to the Gatlinburg Strip. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Gatlinburg different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a city with good options for skiing and snowboarding. However, Portland is not a skiing destination.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Portland is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gatlinburg or Portland?

Gatlinburg is a city with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Is the Food Better in Gatlinburg or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at decent restaurants in both Gatlinburg and Portland.

Gatlinburg offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Gatlinburg is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is very good for live music. However, Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

In Gatlinburg, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Hiking?

You'll find superb hiking in both Gatlinburg and Portland.

Many visitors go to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Portland is a popular spot for hiking. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Portland?

If you're looking to go shopping, Gatlinburg and Portland both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Gatlinburg. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland More Beautiful?

Portland is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Portland is a gorgeous place to visit. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Families?

Portland is very good for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Portland offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Gatlinburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Portland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

Gatlinburg and Portland both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Gatlinburg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Gatlinburg or Portland a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg and Portland are superb when it comes to walkability.

Gatlinburg is very walkable. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Gatlinburg and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gatlinburg than in Portland. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Gatlinburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Gatlinburg 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 Portland.

One day in Gatlinburg or Portland?

The city of Gatlinburg offers nightlife and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With shopping and nightlife around the nature-filled city of Portland, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Gatlinburg or Portland?

Gatlinburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Gatlinburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Gatlinburg or Portland?

Gatlinburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Gatlinburg or Portland?

Gatlinburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Portland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and Portland, 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 Gatlinburg or Portland?

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 Gatlinburg or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and Portland. Many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Gatlinburg is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Gatlinburg usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Gatlinburg gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Portland. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Gatlinburg is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Gatlinburg in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gatlinburg this time of the year. In the autumn, Gatlinburg often gets more sunshine than Portland. Gatlinburg gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Gatlinburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Gatlinburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland can be very cold. Gatlinburg can be very cold during winter. In January, Gatlinburg is generally around the same temperature as Portland. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 40°F (5°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Gatlinburg usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Gatlinburg gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. In January, Gatlinburg usually receives less rain than Portland. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Gatlinburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

Gatlinburg is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. In the spring, Gatlinburg often gets more sunshine than Portland. Gatlinburg gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Gatlinburg