A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portland vs. Vernon for Hiking, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Portland or Vernon?

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 Vernon 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 scenic, laid-back, and progressive city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and hiking. See Portland travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Vernon travel costs.

Portland and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Portland or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portland than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portland is better known for its nightlife, music, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Vernon is more popular for its museums and attractions and food. Portland is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Also, Portland is famous for Washington Park. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Portland different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Portland
Vernon

Vernon is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.


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

Portland
Vernon

Vernon is a town 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 Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

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 Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Portland
Vernon

Portland is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Portland or Vernon Better for Music?

Portland
Vernon

Portland is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Vernon is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Portland active and fun. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Vernon is not a live music destination.


Is Portland or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Portland
Vernon

Both Portland and Vernon are destinations which offer high quality 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 Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland or Vernon?

Portland
Vernon

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Portland and Vernon.

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.

Vernon offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Portland or Vernon More Beautiful?

Portland
Vernon

Portland is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Portland or Vernon Better for Families?

Portland
Vernon

Both Portland and Vernon are notable to visit with kids.

Portland is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vernon. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Portland or Vernon Better for Couples?

Portland
Vernon

Both Portland and Vernon are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Vernon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Portland or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland
Vernon

Portland is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.


Is Portland or Vernon Better for Students?

Portland
Vernon

Portland is a nice place to visit for students. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not popular with students.

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

Portland
Vernon

Portland is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Portland or Vernon a more walkable city?

Portland
Vernon

Portland is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.


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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Portland?

How long in Portland or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Portland and Vernon. In our opinion, Portland has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Portland than Vernon. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Portland or Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Portland 2-3 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Portland or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The town of Vernon offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Portland or Vernon?

Portland is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Vernon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Vernon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portland or Vernon?

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. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon 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 Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the eclectic destination of Portland. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon 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 town 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Portland?

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

  • Portland Prices
    USA Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Portland $211
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Portland is $211, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 and Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portland $97
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portland $194
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Portland and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Portland or Vernon? 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


Hotels in Vernon


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 Hotel Prices and Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portland $28
    Vernon -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

Also for Portland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Portland Airport PDX: $40
  • Private Departure Transfer to Portland Airport (PDX): $40
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Beaverton hotel to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Tigard hotel or address to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Lake Oswego to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Portland or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon and Portland 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 $74
    Vernon $43
Typical Food Prices in Portland

For Portland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

For Portland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Walking Food Tour – Warm Donuts & History: $57
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Westside Food Tour Like a Local: $90
  • Downtown Food Tour of 6 Local Favorites Dishes: $100
  • Portland Downtown Food Tour: 6 Tastings of Local & Global Flavors: $109
  • Alphabet District Food Tour: $119
  • 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River: $127
  • Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise: $127
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Portland $25
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Portland

For Portland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Downtown Portland's Outdoor Sculptures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Portland (Downtown) Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour: $7.69
  • Portland Oregon Ghost Tour Paranormal Portland Ghost Tour: $15
  • Lan Su Chinese Garden General Admission Ticket: $16
  • Mount Hood Loop Scenic Drive Self Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Hopscotch Portland Immersive Art Experience: $24
  • Portland Ghost Tour : Phantoms, Penance, and Poltergeists: $24
  • Portland Art Museum Entry Ticket: $25
  • Portland Party Bike Tours: The Classic Crawl - Public: $25
  • Intro to Portland Small Group Walking Tour: $29
  • Portland, Oregon: Soul of the City Walking Tour: $29
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Portland $17
    Vernon $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Power Through Portland Bar Crawl: $12
  • Private or Shared Party Bike Pub Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Oregon Priority Wine Tasting Pass: $40
  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $48
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $65
  • Fun Pasta Making Class at a Local Brewery in Portland: $75
  • Fun Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Portland: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $99
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Urban Wine Tasting Tour: $139


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

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


Which is Bigger, Portland or Vernon?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Portland and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Vernon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Portland as well as Vernon. Most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Vernon because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Portland is generally cooler than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 68°F (20°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Portland usually gets less rain in July than Vernon. Portland gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Portland 68°F (20°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Portland or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Portland are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

Portland is a little warmer than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portland averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Portland usually receives more rain than Vernon. Portland gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Portland 55°F (13°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Portland or Vernon in the Winter?

Both Vernon and Portland during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vernon. It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. In the winter, Portland is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portland in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. Portland usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Portland gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Portland 40°F (4°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Portland or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland and Vernon. Many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Portland is generally around the same temperature as Vernon. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 51°F (11°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Portland usually receives more rain than Vernon. Portland gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Portland 51°F (11°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Portland

Portland Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)