A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Blue Ridge vs. Portland, Maine for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

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 Blue Ridge and Portland, Maine. 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.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a charming, outdoorsy, and historic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a scenic, picturesque, and seaside coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Blue Ridge and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Blue Ridge than Portland, Maine, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Blue Ridge is better known for its museums & sights, food, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Portland, Maine is more popular for its beaches and impressive beauty. Blue Ridge is well known for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere. Also, Blue Ridge is famous for Chattahoochee National Forest. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Blue Ridge different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

Blue Ridge is a town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Blue Ridge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Blue Ridge is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Blue Ridge is an experience not to be missed. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Blue Ridge and Portland, Maine.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Blue Ridge. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

Portland, Maine has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Blue Ridge is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Blue Ridge. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

Blue Ridge is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Blue Ridge. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is a decent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Blue Ridge does not offer Christmas activities.

Portland, Maine has some seasonal activities during Christmas. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Blue Ridge does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Blue Ridge is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Blue Ridge is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Blue Ridge is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Blue Ridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Blue Ridge is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Blue Ridge is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Blue Ridge is a somewhat walkable town. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable town. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Blue Ridge Worth Visiting? and Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Blue Ridge?

How long in Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Portland, Maine 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 Blue Ridge.

One day in Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

Blue Ridge is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With shopping and nightlife around the picturesque coastal town of Portland, Maine, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

Blue Ridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Portland, Maine, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

Blue Ridge is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

Since Blue Ridge is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portland, Maine 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of Blue Ridge and Portland, Maine, 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 Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine?

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 Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

Both Portland, Maine and Blue Ridge during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Blue Ridge is generally a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 81°F (27°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In Portland, Maine, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Blue Ridge. In the summer, Blue Ridge often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Blue Ridge gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. Blue Ridge gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Blue Ridge and Portland, Maine. Many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Blue Ridge is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the autumn. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

In Blue Ridge, it's very sunny this time of the year. Blue Ridge usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during autumn. Blue Ridge gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Blue Ridge usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Blue Ridge gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Blue Ridge as well as Portland, Maine. Many visitors come to Blue Ridge in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland, Maine can be very cold during winter. Blue Ridge can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Blue Ridge is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the winter temperatures in Blue Ridge in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

In the winter, Blue Ridge often gets less sunshine than Portland, Maine. Blue Ridge gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun.

Blue Ridge receives a lot of rain in the winter. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in January than Portland, Maine. Blue Ridge gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

Both Portland, Maine and Blue Ridge are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Blue Ridge is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 62°F (17°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during spring. Blue Ridge gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Blue Ridge. In April, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Blue Ridge gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Blue Ridge