A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Roanoke vs. Portland for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Roanoke or Portland?

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

Should I visit Roanoke or Portland? 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.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Roanoke travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Portland travel costs.

Roanoke and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Roanoke or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Portland than Roanoke. Portland is bigger than Roanoke, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Portland is better known for its music, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Roanoke is more popular for its museums and attractions. Portland is more touristy than Roanoke and is known 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. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Roanoke different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Roanoke or Portland?

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

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

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 Roanoke or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at respectable restaurants in both Roanoke and Portland.

Roanoke may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Portland offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Roanoke or Portland Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Roanoke and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities Roanoke has a few options to choose from. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

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.

Is Roanoke or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for its music scene. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a live music destination.

Is Roanoke or Portland Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Roanoke and Portland both have excellent trails.

Many visitors go to Roanoke for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Portland is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Roanoke or Portland?

If you're looking to go shopping, Roanoke and Portland both offer plenty of notable spots.

Roanoke has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Portland is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Roanoke or Portland More Beautiful?

Portland is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Roanoke or Portland Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Roanoke or Portland.

Roanoke offers lots of family activities. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Portland is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Roanoke or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Roanoke makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

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 Roanoke or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Roanoke is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Is Roanoke or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Roanoke is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Portland. 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.

Roanoke is not popular with students.

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

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

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Public transit is generally limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Is Roanoke or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Roanoke is not known 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.

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Roanoke?

How long in Roanoke or Portland?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Roanoke 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 Roanoke or Portland?

The town of Roanoke offers nightlife 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.

In Portland, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Roanoke or Portland?

Roanoke 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 Roanoke, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Portland, you'll find nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland has to offer.

Five days in Roanoke or Portland?

Roanoke 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.

Portland is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

A week in Roanoke or Portland?

Roanoke 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Roanoke or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Roanoke. When comparing the sizes of Roanoke and Portland, 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 Roanoke or Portland?

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 Roanoke or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Roanoke and Portland. Many visitors come to Roanoke in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Roanoke is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Roanoke in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Roanoke, it's very sunny this time of the year. Roanoke usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Roanoke gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Roanoke gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Roanoke usually receives more rain than Portland. Roanoke gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Roanoke or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Roanoke as well as Portland. Most visitors come to Roanoke for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, 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.

In October, Roanoke is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 60°F (16°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Roanoke this time of the year. In the autumn, Roanoke often gets more sunshine than Portland. Roanoke gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Roanoke usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Roanoke gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Roanoke or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Roanoke are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Roanoke because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. The weather in Roanoke can be very cold. Roanoke is cooler than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Roanoke averages around 38°F (3°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Roanoke usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Roanoke gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Roanoke usually receives less rain than Portland. Roanoke gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Roanoke or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Roanoke during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Roanoke is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Roanoke in April average around 59°F (15°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Roanoke. In the spring, Roanoke often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland. Roanoke gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Roanoke usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Roanoke gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Roanoke