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

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Seattle?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Seattle? 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 laid-back, scenic, and picturesque coastal town. With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Seattle offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking. See Seattle travel costs.

Portland, Maine and Seattle: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seattle than Portland, Maine. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seattle is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Portland, Maine attracts visitors for its beaches and impressive beauty. Seattle is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seattle is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Portland, Maine or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Portland, Maine is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Portland, Maine is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Seattle is an experience not to be missed. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. 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.

Is Portland, Maine or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Seattle is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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.

Is Portland, Maine or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is well known for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is notable for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Portland, Maine. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Portland, Maine or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle 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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

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 Seattle?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Seattle 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Portland, Maine or Seattle More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Is Portland, Maine or Seattle Better for Families?

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

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.

Seattle offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Portland, Maine or Seattle Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Portland, Maine and Seattle make for a nice 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

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 Seattle Better for Students?

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

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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

Seattle is a popular place for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Seattle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Portland, Maine or Seattle?

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

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

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

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

One day in Portland, Maine or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

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 live music and food when visiting Seattle. 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 Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and Seattle, 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 Portland, Maine or Seattle?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and Seattle. Many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Portland, Maine is around the same temperature as Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Portland, Maine, it's very sunny this time of the year. Portland, Maine usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Portland, Maine gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Seattle. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portland, Maine as well as Seattle. Many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Portland, Maine is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portland, Maine in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Portland, Maine often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Portland, Maine gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Seattle. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Portland, Maine are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Portland, Maine can be very cold during winter. In January, Portland, Maine is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 21°F (-6°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Portland, Maine usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Portland, Maine gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Portland, Maine usually receives less rain than Seattle. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Portland, Maine during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

Portland, Maine is much colder than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. In the spring, Portland, Maine often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle. Portland, Maine gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Portland, Maine