A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portland vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Portland or Niagara Falls?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Portland and Niagara Falls can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and hiking. See Portland travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a iconic, breathtaking, and impressive city. Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Portland and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland or Niagara Falls?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portland than Niagara Falls. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Portland is very popular for its music and small town charm, while Niagara Falls attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Portland and is popular for the large volume of water that flows over it. Portland is famous for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. It is also well known for Washington Park.

How is Portland different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland or Niagara Falls?

Spend time exploring the reasonable sights and museums in either Portland or Niagara Falls.

While most people don't head to Portland specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Niagara Falls offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Is the Food Better in Portland or Niagara Falls? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Niagara Falls is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Niagara Falls. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Portland and Niagara Falls.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Niagara Falls has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Niagara Falls is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Niagara Falls is not a live music destination.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Both Portland and Niagara Falls are destinations which offer excellent hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Niagara Falls. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland or Niagara Falls?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Portland and Niagara Falls.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Niagara Falls offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Niagara Falls is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Niagara Falls is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Niagara Falls is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Niagara Falls makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is notable for backpackers. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Niagara Falls is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls Better for Students?

Portland is a popular place for students. However, Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Portland is a good city to visit for students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Portland and Niagara Falls.

Portland has some public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

You'll find some public transit in Niagara Falls, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system through town.

Is Portland or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Portland is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Portland Worth Visiting? and Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Portland?

How long in Portland or Niagara Falls?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Portland and Niagara Falls. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Niagara Falls 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 Portland.

One day in Portland or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the laid-back destination of Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful city of Niagara Falls offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Portland or Niagara Falls?

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

Niagara Falls is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Niagara Falls, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portland or Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Portland. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Niagara Falls is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Portland or Niagara Falls?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Portland. 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.

Niagara Falls is a great place to explore. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portland or Niagara Falls?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Niagara Falls. When comparing the sizes of Portland and Niagara Falls, 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 or Niagara Falls?

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 Portland or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Portland as well as Niagara Falls. Many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Portland is cooler than Niagara Falls. Typically, the summer temperatures in Portland in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Niagara Falls. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In the summer, Portland often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Portland gets 338 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun.

Portland usually gets less rain in July than Niagara Falls. Portland gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

Both Niagara Falls and Portland are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Portland is generally around the same temperature as Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 55°F (13°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Portland usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls during autumn. Portland gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Portland usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Portland gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portland or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

Both Niagara Falls and Portland during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Niagara Falls can be very cold. Portland can be very cold during winter. Portland is much warmer than Niagara Falls in the winter. The daily temperature in Portland averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

In the winter, Portland often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls. Portland gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. Portland usually gets more rain in January than Niagara Falls. Portland gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland and Niagara Falls. The spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

In the spring, Portland is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls. Typically, the spring temperatures in Portland in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 10°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Niagara Falls this time of the year. In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. Portland usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during spring. Portland gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Portland usually receives around the same amount of rain as Niagara Falls. Portland gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Portland