A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Norfolk vs. Kennebunkport for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Kennebunkport? 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Norfolk travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Kennebunkport is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Norfolk and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kennebunkport. Although Norfolk and Kennebunkport are both popular with visitors, Kennebunkport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Norfolk and is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. It is also home to Dock Square. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Both Norfolk and Kennebunkport have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Kennebunkport offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.


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

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kennebunkport makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Norfolk or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

It's hard to distinguish whether Norfolk or Kennebunkport has a better nightlife scene.

Norfolk has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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.

Is Norfolk or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a great destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Kennebunkport is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.


Is Norfolk or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Kennebunkport is a good destination for hiking. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a great destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Kennebunkport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Norfolk or Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Norfolk or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kennebunkport is 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

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

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Norfolk and Kennebunkport.

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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


Is Norfolk or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Kennebunkport

Norfolk and Kennebunkport both are good when exploring on foot.

Norfolk is somewhat walkable. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Norfolk or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Norfolk. 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.

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.

A weekend in Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

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

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.


Five days in Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the blue collar destination of Norfolk. 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.

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.

A week in Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Norfolk. 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Norfolk?

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

  • Norfolk Prices
    USA Prices
    Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Norfolk $202
    Kennebunkport $269

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $202, while the average daily cost in Kennebunkport is $269. 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 Norfolk and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Norfolk $84
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Norfolk $168
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Norfolk and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk or Kennebunkport? 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 Norfolk


Hotels in Kennebunkport


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: Norfolk Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Kennebunkport $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $85
    Kennebunkport $115

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • City Cruises Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise: $57
  • City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise : $103
  • 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks: $210

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Norfolk $14
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

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

  • City Cruises Signature Lunch Cruise: $84
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Half-Day Self-Guided Tour E-Bike Rental in Norfolk: $75
  • Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin: $40
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $42

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
    Norfolk $10
    Kennebunkport $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Norfolk Bar Crawl: $15


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

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


Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk and Kennebunkport, 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 Norfolk or Kennebunkport?

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 Norfolk or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Norfolk during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

Norfolk is a little warmer than Kennebunkport in the summer. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In Kennebunkport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the summer, Norfolk often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually gets more rain in July than Kennebunkport. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Kennebunkport. The shopping scene are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Norfolk is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Norfolk in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 49°F (9°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport during autumn. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kennebunkport. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Kennebunkport. Many travelers come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kennebunkport can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Norfolk. In January, Norfolk is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 39°F (4°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

In the winter, Norfolk often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Kennebunkport. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

Both Kennebunkport and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Norfolk is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the spring. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Kennebunkport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during spring. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Norfolk usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Norfolk

Norfolk Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)