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

Should you visit Wilmington or Portland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Portland, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Wilmington travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Portland is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Portland travel costs.

Wilmington and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wilmington or Portland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Wilmington than Portland. While Portland is larger than Wilmington, Wilmington has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Wilmington is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, and historical sights, while Portland is known for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Portland is more touristy than Wilmington 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. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. It is also home to the Battleship North Carolina.

How is Wilmington different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom 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 Wilmington or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

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 Wilmington or Portland Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Wilmington and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

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 Wilmington or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a live music destination.

Is Wilmington or Portland Better for Beaches?

Wilmington is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Wilmington attract visitors from all over. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Wilmington or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. 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.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Portland?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wilmington. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Wilmington or Portland More Beautiful?

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

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

Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wilmington or Portland Better for Families?

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

Wilmington is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

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 Wilmington or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Wilmington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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 Wilmington or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Portland Better for Students?

For students, both Wilmington and Portland are good places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

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.

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

Portland is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Wilmington is not a good destination 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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Is Wilmington or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is great for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wilmington and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington than in Portland. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

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

The city of Wilmington offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic city of Portland, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wilmington or Portland?

Wilmington 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wilmington, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Wilmington or Portland?

Wilmington is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wilmington, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Portland?

Wilmington is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

Portland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Portland?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Portland. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Wilmington is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wilmington usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Wilmington gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Wilmington gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Portland. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wilmington or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the shopping scene. Additionally, 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.

In the autumn, Wilmington is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wilmington in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In the autumn, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Portland. Wilmington gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wilmington or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland can be very cold during winter. In January, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 45°F (7°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Wilmington gets 180 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, Wilmington usually receives less rain than Portland. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wilmington or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Wilmington during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Wilmington is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wilmington. In the spring, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Portland. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Wilmington