A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bangor vs. Hood River for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bangor or Hood River?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangor and Hood River 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.

Bangor

Bangor is a welcoming, friendly, and laid back town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Hood River

Hood River is a charming, agricultural, and quaint town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include skiing, nightlife, and food.

Bangor and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Bangor or Hood River?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hood River. Although Bangor and Hood River are both popular with visitors, Hood River has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hood River is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is known for its museums & sights and small town charm. Hood River is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. It is also home to Multnomah Falls. Bangor is popular for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Bangor or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Bangor
Hood River

Hood River is a town with good options for snow skiing. However, Bangor is not a skiing destination.

Head to Hood River for some great skiing and other winter activities. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Bangor is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangor or Hood River?

Bangor
Hood River

Bangor is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Bangor offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Bangor or Hood River? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangor
Hood River

Hood River is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Hood River is an experience not to be missed. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Bangor or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Hood River

Hood River is a town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hood River. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.


Is Bangor or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Hood River

Hood River is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Hood River is a popular spot for hiking. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Hood River?

Bangor
Hood River

Both Bangor and Hood River are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Bangor to go shopping. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hood River. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Bangor or Hood River Better for Families?

Bangor
Hood River

Hood River is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hood River is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Bangor is a family-friendly town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.


Is Bangor or Hood River Better for Couples?

Bangor
Hood River

Hood River is a well-known place for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Hood River is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Bangor or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangor
Hood River

Hood River is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hood River is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

Is Bangor or Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bangor
Hood River

Both Bangor and Hood River offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.


Is Bangor or Hood River a more walkable city?

Bangor
Hood River

Bangor is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

For even more information, also check out Is Bangor Worth Visiting? and Is Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bangor and Hood River. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hood River than in Bangor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Bangor, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hood River than Bangor 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 Hood River.


  • How many days in Bangor or Hood River? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangor 1-2 
    Hood River 2-3

One day in Bangor or Hood River?

With museums and food around the laid back town of Bangor, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangor, one day is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Hood River. 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.

A weekend in Bangor or Hood River?

With food and shopping around the destination of Bangor, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Hood River 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.


Five days in Bangor or Hood River?

Bangor, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hood River. 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.

A week in Bangor or Hood River?

Bangor 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Hood River. This town 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.


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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hood River or Bangor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $197, while the average daily cost in Hood River is $145. 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 Bangor and Hood River in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Hood River $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Hood River $156
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Hood River

Looking for a hotel in Bangor or Hood River? 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 Bangor


Hotels in Hood River


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: Bangor Hotel Prices and Hood River Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Hood River $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $71
  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $71

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Hood River?

Prices for flights to both Hood River and Bangor 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
    Bangor $54
    Hood River $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Hood River $18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Tours and Activities in Bangor

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bangor are as follows:

  • Bangor Blitz Amazing Race & Tour: $22

Tours and Activities in Hood River

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

  • Orchard Tour: $31
  • Gift Basket Factory Tour: $31
  • Columbia Gorge Kayak Tour: $100
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $199
  • Railbikes Experience: $211

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Hood River $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Hood River

Also in Hood River, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Hood River Premium Wine Tour: $600


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangor and Hood River, we can see that Bangor is more expensive. And not only is Hood River much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hood River would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hood River 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 Bangor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bangor than you might in Hood River.

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


Which is Bigger, Bangor or Hood River?

Bangor has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Bangor and Hood River, 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 Bangor or Hood River?

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 Bangor or Hood River in the Summer?

Both Hood River and Bangor during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hood River in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bangor is generally around the same temperature as Hood River. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 69°F (21°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in July than Hood River. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Hood River 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Hood River in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Hood River. Many visitors come to Bangor in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Hood River for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bangor is cooler than Hood River in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Hood River fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In October, Bangor usually receives more rain than Hood River. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangor 48°F (9°C) 
    Hood River 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Hood River in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Hood River. Most visitors come to Bangor for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hood River because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Hood River can be very cold. Bangor can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bangor is much colder than Hood River. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangor in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Hood River averages at about 40°F (4°C).

It's quite rainy in Hood River. Bangor usually gets less rain in January than Hood River. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Hood River 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Hood River in the Spring?

Both Hood River and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bangor because of the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Hood River this time of year.

In April, Bangor is generally much colder than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 43°F (6°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Bangor usually receives more rain than Hood River. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Hood River 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Hood River and Bangor

Bangor Hood River
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)