A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kennebunkport vs. Calgary for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Calgary?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Calgary? 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.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Calgary

Calgary is a western, local, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Calgary travel costs.

Kennebunkport and Calgary: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Calgary?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kennebunkport. Although Kennebunkport and Calgary are popular destinations, Kennebunkport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kennebunkport is famous for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. It is also well known for Dock Square. Calgary is famous for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.

How is Kennebunkport different from Calgary?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kennebunkport or Calgary?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Kennebunkport or Calgary.

Kennebunkport is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Calgary offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.


Is the Food Better in Kennebunkport or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Kennebunkport is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kennebunkport. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.

Is Kennebunkport or Calgary Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

The vibe at night is nice in both Kennebunkport and Calgary.

If you're looking for night time activities Kennebunkport has a few options to choose from. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Calgary. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.

Is Kennebunkport or Calgary Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Kennebunkport is well known for its resorts. However, Calgary is not a resort destination.

In Kennebunkport, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Calgary is not a resort destination.


Is Kennebunkport or Calgary Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Kennebunkport is a town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Calgary is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Calgary is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Calgary?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Kennebunkport is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Kennebunkport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Calgary has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.

Is Kennebunkport or Calgary More Beautiful?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Kennebunkport is a town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Kennebunkport or Calgary Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Kennebunkport is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kennebunkport is a very kid-friendly town. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.

Is Kennebunkport or Calgary Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Kennebunkport is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Kennebunkport frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Calgary is a good town for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.

Is Kennebunkport or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Calgary is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.


Is Kennebunkport or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Calgary is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Calgary offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

Is Kennebunkport or Calgary a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Calgary

Kennebunkport is a town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable place. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

Calgary is generally not a very walkable town. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.

For even more information, also check out Is Kennebunkport Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Calgary or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Calgary?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Calgary than Kennebunkport 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 Calgary.


  • How many days in Kennebunkport or Calgary? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kennebunkport 2-4 
    Calgary 1-2

One day in Kennebunkport or Calgary?

Kennebunkport is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the local destination of Calgary. 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.


A weekend in Kennebunkport or Calgary?

Kennebunkport might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kennebunkport has to offer.

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

Five days in Kennebunkport or Calgary?

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the local destination of Calgary. This city 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.

A week in Kennebunkport or Calgary?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kennebunkport. Since Kennebunkport is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Calgary. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Kennebunkport?

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

  • Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
    Calgary Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Kennebunkport $269
    Calgary $177

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $269, while the average daily cost in Calgary is $177. 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 Kennebunkport and Calgary in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Calgary $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Calgary $146
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Calgary

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport or Calgary? 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 Kennebunkport


Hotels in Calgary


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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices and Calgary Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kennebunkport $49
    Calgary $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:

  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Vancouver: $2,153
  • Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper Shuttle Transfer: $1,256
  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Jasper: $861
  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Fernie, BC: $517
  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Edmonton: $502
  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Golden BC: $502
  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Lake Louis: $359
  • Black Car Airport Transfers in Bow Valley: $295
  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Red Deer: $251
  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Kananaskis: $222
  • Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Drumheller: $215
  • Calgary YYC Airport to Banff Canmore Private Transfer: $215

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Calgary?

Prices for flights to both Calgary and Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $115
    Calgary $54

Typical Food Prices in Calgary

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:


  • Bread, Chips, Cheese
    $8.10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary

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

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
  • Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
  • Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $80
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $127
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Calgary $15

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kennebunkport.

  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $35
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • From Boston: Kennebunkport Day Trip & Optional Trolley Tour: $125
  • Kennebunkport, Maine: Lunchtime Culinary Walking Tour: $150
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $160

Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary

Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Stampede Admission (for 2)
    $22

Tours and Activities in Calgary

Here are a few actual costs in Calgary for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Guided Group Tour : $132
  • 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands in Private Custom Tour: $88
  • 2-Day Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Columbia Icefield Rockies Tour: $80
  • 3 Day Banff Moraine Lake Louise Johnston Columbia Icefield Tour : $241
  • 6-Hour Private City Tour Drive to Calgary Tower: $682
  • Airport Pickup & Private Tour from Calgary to The Rockies!: $257
  • Badlands Tour: Drumheller with Museum, Hoodoos & Coal Mine: $121
  • Banff Explorer™ Private Tour with Moraine Lake & Lake Louise: $537
  • Banff Gondola Hot Springs Bow Falls and Three Lakes tour: $73
  • Banff Gondola Upper Hot Springs & Top 3 Lakes Tour from Calgary: $88
  • Banff Johnston Canyon and Banff Gondola 1 Day Tour from Calgary: $118
  • Banff Lake Louise Moraine & Emerald Lake Tour: $77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kennebunkport $31
    Calgary $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary

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

  • Brewery Tours at Award Winning Venues: $82
  • Calgary Brewery Tour: $88


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

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


Which is Bigger, Kennebunkport or Calgary?

Calgary has a larger population, and is about 650 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Kennebunkport and Calgary, 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.