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

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Boulder?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Boulder? 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.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. The beauty of Portland, Maine is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a nature-filled, biker-friendly, and outdoorsy city. Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Boulder travel costs.

Portland, Maine and Boulder: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boulder than Portland, Maine, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Boulder is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, music, and hiking, while Portland, Maine is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks. Boulder is popular for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries. It is also home to The Flatirons.

How is Portland, Maine different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Portland, Maine is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Boulder for snow skiing. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Portland, Maine is not a skiing destination.

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

Boulder is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Portland, Maine and Boulder can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Portland, Maine area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Boulder. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Portland, Maine and Boulder.

Portland, Maine has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Boulder has a few options to choose from. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder is a popular place for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boulder is active and vibrant. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a great coastal town for the beach. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Boulder is not a beach destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Boulder 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 Boulder. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

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 Portland, Maine or Boulder?

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

Many visitors go to Portland, Maine to go shopping. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Boulder. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine is a great coastal town for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Portland, Maine is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland, Maine. 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.

Boulder offers lots of family activities. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Couples?

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

Portland, Maine is a good coastal town for couples to visit. 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.

Boulder is a nice destination for couples. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boulder is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

Is Portland, Maine or Boulder Better for Students?

Boulder is well known for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

Boulder is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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

Boulder is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

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 Portland, Maine or Boulder a more walkable city?

Boulder is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Boulder is a somewhat walkable city. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable coastal town. 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 Portland, Maine Worth Visiting? and Is Boulder Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Portland, Maine or Boulder?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boulder 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 Boulder.

One day in Portland, Maine or Boulder?

In Portland, Maine, you'll find shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The biker-friendly destination of Boulder offers nightlife and live music. 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.

A weekend in Portland, Maine or Boulder?

In Portland, Maine, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland, Maine has to offer.

The city of Boulder offers live music and food. 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.

Five days in Portland, Maine or Boulder?

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Boulder 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.

A week in Portland, Maine or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland, Maine. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Boulder. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and Boulder, 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.