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

Should you visit Bangor or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix 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 friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Bangor travel costs.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Phoenix travel costs.

Bangor and Phoenix: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bangor or Phoenix?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Phoenix. Although Bangor and Phoenix are popular destinations, Phoenix has more sights and attractions for tourists. Phoenix is very popular for its nightlife and hiking, while Bangor attracts visitors for its small town charm. Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. It is also well known for Desert Botanical Garden.

How is Bangor different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

Bangor
Phoenix

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Bangor or Phoenix.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bangor. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.


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

Bangor
Phoenix

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Bangor and Phoenix can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Phoenix. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Bangor or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Phoenix

Phoenix is a city 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 Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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 Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Phoenix

Phoenix is a city with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Phoenix. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Phoenix?

Bangor
Phoenix

Both Bangor and Phoenix are nice 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 Phoenix. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Bangor or Phoenix Better for Families?

Bangor
Phoenix

Both Bangor and Phoenix are nice to visit with kids.

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

Phoenix is a family-friendly town. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Bangor or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Bangor
Phoenix

Phoenix is a city with good options for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Phoenix is a good city for couples to visit. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Bangor
Phoenix

Both Bangor and Phoenix offer reasonable 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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Bangor or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Bangor
Phoenix

Bangor is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

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

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Phoenix?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Bangor or Phoenix?

In Bangor, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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


A weekend in Bangor or Phoenix?

In Bangor, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangor has to offer.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

Bangor is a great place to explore. 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.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangor. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Bangor. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Phoenix or Bangor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Bangor Prices
    USA Prices
    Phoenix Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bangor $237
    Phoenix $276

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $237, while the average daily cost in Phoenix is $276. 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 Phoenix in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Phoenix $144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Phoenix $288
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Phoenix

Looking for a hotel in Bangor or Phoenix? 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 Phoenix


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 Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Phoenix $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $203
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $203

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

Also for Phoenix, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Tesla Transfer from Phoenix Airport to all Hotels : $51
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68
  • Departure Private Transfer Phoenix City to Phoenix Airport PHX : $103
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Business Car: $108
  • Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels: $110
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $125
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $125
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $125
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Luxury SUV: $153
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $155

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Phoenix?

Prices for flights to both Phoenix 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 $93
    Phoenix $90

Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

For Phoenix, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Phoenix: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar: $75
  • Phoenix Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Secret Food Tours Phoenix: $86
  • Old Town Scottsdale Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $105
  • Quiche Lorraine French Cooking Class in Scottsdale: $118

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Phoenix $40
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 Phoenix

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Phoenix.

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Scottsdale by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting Entry Ticket: $19
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket: $19
  • Speakeasy Escape Room Experience in Avondale: $27
  • Ghosts & Poltergeists Guided Haunted Walking Tour: $27
  • Drunk Shakespeare Ticket: Phoenix, AZ: $29
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Phoenix Ghosts: Phantoms, Psychopaths, & Poltergeists Tour: $32
  • Scottsdale Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Tempe Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball Game Ticket: $36
  • Phoenix Zoo One Day General Admission Ticket: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Phoenix $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Old Town Scottsdale Party Bike Bar Crawl and Pool Party: $58
  • Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix: $70
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $70
  • Make Alfredo Pasta at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Crafting Spirits Distillery Tour and Cocktail Infusion Class: $129
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $189
  • Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix: $200
  • Custom Arizona Brewery / Vineyard Tour: $245
  • Wine Tasting from Scottsdale-(4 Vineyards & Includes Lunch): $300


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bangor or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Bangor and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bangor as well as Phoenix. The summer months attract visitors to Bangor because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. Bangor is much colder than Phoenix in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 69°F (21°C) in July, and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in July than Phoenix. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Phoenix in the Autumn?

Both Phoenix and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Bangor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Bangor is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangor in October average around 48°F (9°C), and Phoenix averages at about 79°F (26°C).

In October, Bangor usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangor 48°F (9°C) 
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Phoenix in the Winter?

Both Phoenix and Bangor during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bangor for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Phoenix in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bangor. In January, Bangor is generally much colder than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 18°F (-8°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in January than Phoenix. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Phoenix in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangor and Phoenix. Many visitors come to Bangor in the spring for the small town charm.

Bangor is much colder than Phoenix in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

In April, Bangor usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Bangor

Bangor Phoenix
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm)