A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bangor vs. Juneau for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Bangor or Juneau?

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 Juneau 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. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Bangor and Juneau: 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 museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Bangor or Juneau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Bangor and Juneau are both popular with visitors, Juneau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Juneau is more popular for its museums & sights, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is known for its small town charm. Juneau is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier. Bangor is popular for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangor or Juneau?

Bangor
Juneau

Juneau is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Juneau. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.


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

Bangor
Juneau

Juneau 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 Juneau is an experience not to be missed. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Juneau

Both Bangor and Juneau are decent when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Bangor specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Bangor or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Around Juneau visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Juneau?

Bangor
Juneau

Juneau is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Is Bangor or Juneau Better for Families?

Bangor
Juneau

Juneau 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.

Juneau is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

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 Juneau Better for Couples?

Bangor
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Juneau is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangor
Juneau

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

Juneau is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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 Juneau Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bangor
Juneau

Both Bangor and Juneau 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Is Bangor or Juneau a more walkable city?

Bangor
Juneau

Juneau is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Juneau is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Juneau?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau 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 Juneau.


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

One day in Bangor or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bangor. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Juneau. 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 Juneau?

Bangor 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.

Juneau is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Juneau?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Juneau. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Bangor. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Juneau. This city 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau 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 Juneau is $160. 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 Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Bangor or Juneau? 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 Juneau


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 Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Juneau Airport (JNU): $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau 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
    Juneau $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Juneau $17
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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

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


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

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

  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • City Highlights Bus Tour: $51
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour: $78
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Mendenhall Glacier Express Tour: $83
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo: $105
  • Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo: $125
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $154

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Juneau $16


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bangor or Juneau?

Bangor has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Bangor and Juneau, 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 Juneau?

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 Bangor or Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bangor is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 69°F (21°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In July, Bangor usually receives less rain than Juneau. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Bangor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bangor in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bangor is much warmer than Juneau in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bangor usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangor 48°F (9°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Juneau. Most visitors come to Bangor for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Juneau because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Juneau can be very cold. Bangor can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bangor is much colder than Juneau. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangor in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Juneau averages at about 24°F (-4°C).

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Bangor usually receives less rain than Juneau. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Juneau. The spring months attract visitors to Bangor because of the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the spring. In April, Bangor is generally a little warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 43°F (6°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Bangor

Bangor Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)