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

Should you visit Roanoke or Portland, Maine?

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

Should I visit Roanoke or Portland, Maine? 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 scenic, outdoorsy, and laid back town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Roanoke travel costs.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Roanoke and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Portland, Maine than Roanoke. While Roanoke is larger than Portland, Maine, Portland, Maine has more sights and attractions for tourists. Portland, Maine is very popular for its food, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Roanoke attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and hiking. Roanoke is famous for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks. It is also well known for The Portland Head Light.

How is Roanoke different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland, Maine 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, Maine?

Roanoke is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roanoke. 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, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Portland, Maine is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Portland, Maine is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Roanoke or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

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

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, Maine. 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 Roanoke or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a great coastal town for the beach. However, Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Portland, Maine is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Is Roanoke or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Roanoke 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 Roanoke. 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.

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 Roanoke or Portland, Maine?

If you're looking to go shopping, Roanoke and Portland, Maine both offer plenty of nice 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, Maine is a great destination for shopping. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Roanoke or Portland, Maine More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine is a great coastal town for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke is not a destination known for its 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.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Roanoke or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

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

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

Roanoke is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Roanoke frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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, 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 Roanoke or Portland, Maine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

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

Roanoke is a town 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 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.

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 Roanoke or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Roanoke and Portland, Maine are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

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

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.

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

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

How long in Roanoke or Portland, Maine?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Roanoke than Portland, Maine. 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 Roanoke 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 Roanoke.

One day in Roanoke or Portland, Maine?

The scenic destination of Roanoke offers shopping and museums. 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 enough time to experience most activities.

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.

A weekend in Roanoke or Portland, Maine?

The town of Roanoke offers museums and nightlife. 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.

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.

Five days in Roanoke or Portland, Maine?

Roanoke is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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.

A week in Roanoke or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Roanoke. 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.

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.

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, Maine, we can see that Portland, Maine 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, Maine Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Roanoke or Portland, Maine?

Roanoke has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Roanoke and Portland, Maine, 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, Maine?

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 Roanoke or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Roanoke as well as Portland, Maine. The summer months attract visitors to Roanoke because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

Roanoke is a little warmer than Portland, Maine in the summer. The daily temperature in Roanoke averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Roanoke this time of the year. In the summer, Roanoke often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Roanoke gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.

Roanoke receives a lot of rain in the summer. Roanoke usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. Roanoke gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Portland, Maine and Roanoke are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Roanoke this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Roanoke is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Roanoke in October average around 60°F (16°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. Roanoke usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during autumn. Roanoke gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Roanoke usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Roanoke gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Portland, Maine and Roanoke during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Roanoke for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland, Maine can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Roanoke. In January, Roanoke is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 38°F (3°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

In the winter, Roanoke often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Roanoke gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun.

Roanoke usually gets less rain in January than Portland, Maine. Roanoke gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Roanoke and Portland, Maine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Roanoke is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the spring. The daily temperature in Roanoke averages around 59°F (15°C) in April, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In Roanoke, it's very sunny this time of the year. Roanoke usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during spring. Roanoke gets 246 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Roanoke usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Roanoke gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Roanoke