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

Should you visit Alexandria or Portland?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Portland. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a tree-lined, nature-filled, and scenic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Alexandria and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Portland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Alexandria than Portland. While Portland is larger than Alexandria, Alexandria has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Alexandria is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its music and hiking. Alexandria is well known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Also, Alexandria is famous for Mount Vernon. Portland is well 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.

How is Alexandria different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Alexandria is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

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 Alexandria or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria 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 Alexandria. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

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 Alexandria or Portland Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Alexandria and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

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 Alexandria or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a good destination for its music scene. However, Alexandria is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Is Alexandria or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is very popular for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria has a world-famous historical area. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. However, Alexandria 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.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Portland?

Alexandria is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

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 Alexandria or Portland Better for Families?

Portland is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Portland offers lots of family activities. 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.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Alexandria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

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 Alexandria or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Is Alexandria or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria 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.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

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

Alexandria is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Alexandria has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Alexandria or Portland a more walkable city?

Alexandria is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Alexandria. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alexandria and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Alexandria than in Portland. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

The beautiful city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 eclectic 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 Alexandria or Portland?

Alexandria 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 visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Alexandria, 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 Alexandria or Portland?

Alexandria 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, 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 Alexandria or Portland?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Portland. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Alexandria is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Alexandria 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 Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Portland. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Alexandria or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Portland. The autumn months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In October, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 60°F (15°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Portland. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. It's quite cold in Alexandria in the winter. Alexandria is much colder than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Alexandria gets 139 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, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Portland. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alexandria or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Alexandria during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Alexandria is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Alexandria in April average around 56°F (14°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 Alexandria. In the spring, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Alexandria