A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park? 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 hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. The famous beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Portland, Maine and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portland, Maine. Although Portland, Maine and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Portland, Maine has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portland, Maine is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks. It is also home to The Portland Head Light.

How is Portland, Maine different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Portland, Maine is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Portland, Maine has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Portland, Maine is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. 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.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a park with a few options for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.


Is Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Portland, Maine is a great coastal town for the beach. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Portland, Maine is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Portland, Maine is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.


Is Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. This park is one of the most uniquely beautiful, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the colors glow and the hoodoos have a magical quality.

Portland, Maine is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Is Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Bryce Canyon National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. 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.


Is Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a park 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 Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

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 Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Portland, Maine
Bryce Canyon National Park

Portland, Maine and Bryce Canyon National Park both are decent when exploring on foot.

Portland, Maine is generally not very walkable. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not a very walkable coastal town. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland, Maine?

How long in Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Portland, Maine because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, Maine, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Portland, Maine 2-3 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Portland, Maine, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this seaside destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The other-worldly destination of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Portland, Maine, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

The park of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . 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 Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This park offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.


A week in Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful coastal town of Portland, Maine. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Bryce Canyon National Park. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Portland, Maine?

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

  • Portland, Maine Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Portland, Maine $227
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Portland, Maine is $227, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $159. 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 Portland, Maine and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portland, Maine $115
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portland, Maine $230
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Portland, Maine and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park? 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 Portland, Maine


Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park


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: Portland, Maine Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portland, Maine $34
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland, Maine

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portland, Maine:

  • Private Transfer from Portland Port to Portland Jetport (PWM): $136
  • Private Transfer from Portland city to Portland Cruise Port: $75
  • Private Transfer from Portland Cruise Port to Portland city: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Portland, Maine or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Portland, Maine 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
    Portland, Maine $84
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
Typical Food Prices in Portland, Maine

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Portland, Maine:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $17
  • Dinner for 2
    $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland, Maine

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

  • Portland: Walking Food Tour – Warm Donuts & History: $57

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Portland, Maine $39
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Portland, Maine

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

  • 2 Hour Scenic Powerboat Cruise Experience Portland's Waterfront: $143
  • 2-Hour Portland Old Port Ghost Walking Tour: $29
  • A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland: $49
  • Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine: $62
  • Afternoon Windjammer Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine: $67
  • Around The Peninsula Bike Tour: $85
  • Audio Guided Walking Tour from Old Port of Portland, Maine: $7.75
  • Discover Portland City and Lighthouse Tour: $56
  • Guided RIB Boat Adventure of Casco Bay: $75
  • Harbor Lights and Sights Cruise: $56
  • Historical Walking Tour of Portland’s Old Port District: $7.99
  • Lighthouse Bicycle Tour from South Portland with 4 Lighthouses: $99

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $90
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $115
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $125
  • Zebra Slot Canyon Hiking Tour in Escalante: $139
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139
  • Bryce Canyon Private Tour: $149
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Portland, Maine $24
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland, Maine

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portland, Maine:

  • Portland Old Port Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $99
  • Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $99


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

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 Bryce Canyon National Park Expensive?.