A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kennebunkport vs. Vernon for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Vernon?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Vernon? 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 character-filled, charming, and quaint town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Kennebunkport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Kennebunkport and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kennebunkport than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kennebunkport is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Vernon is more popular for its hiking. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Also, Kennebunkport is famous for Dock Square. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Kennebunkport different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Kennebunkport or Vernon.

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.

Vernon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Kennebunkport is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Kennebunkport or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Kennebunkport or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Vernon is not a resort destination.

Kennebunkport is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Vernon is not a resort destination.


Is Kennebunkport or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Vernon is great for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Vernon for the hiking trails. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Vernon?

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Kennebunkport. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Kennebunkport or Vernon More Beautiful?

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kennebunkport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Kennebunkport or Vernon Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Kennebunkport is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly town. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Kennebunkport or Vernon Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport is a well-known place for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Kennebunkport is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

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

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport and Vernon both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.


Is Kennebunkport or Vernon a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Vernon

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable town. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kennebunkport and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport than in Vernon. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Kennebunkport, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

Families should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Vernon. 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 Vernon. 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 Kennebunkport than Vernon 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 Kennebunkport.


  • How many days in Kennebunkport or Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kennebunkport 2-4 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Kennebunkport or Vernon?

Kennebunkport might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quiet destination of Vernon. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Vernon?

Kennebunkport 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vernon. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kennebunkport. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the peaceful destination of Vernon. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

A week in Kennebunkport or Vernon?

Kennebunkport is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and food around the town of Vernon. 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. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon 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
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Kennebunkport $269
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $269, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kennebunkport $49
    Vernon -

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Vernon -

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kennebunkport $31
    Vernon $13


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kennebunkport and Vernon, we can see that Kennebunkport is more expensive. And not only is Vernon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vernon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vernon 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 Vernon.

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


Which is Bigger, Kennebunkport or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Kennebunkport and Vernon, 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 Kennebunkport or Vernon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Kennebunkport during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vernon in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kennebunkport is generally cooler than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 69°F (20°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Vernon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Vernon. Many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Kennebunkport is cooler than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 49°F (9°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Vernon. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Vernon. Most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Vernon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Vernon can be very cold. Kennebunkport can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Kennebunkport is much colder than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kennebunkport in January average around 21°F (-6°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Vernon in the Spring?

Both Vernon and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Kennebunkport is generally much colder than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 43°F (6°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Vernon. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)