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

Should you visit Hershey or Portland?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Portland? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums.

Portland

Portland is a quirky, eclectic, and tree-lined city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Hershey and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hershey or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portland. Although Hershey and Portland are both popular with visitors, Portland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portland is more popular for its nightlife, music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is known for its museums and resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Portland and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. It is also home to Washington Park.

How is Hershey different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hershey is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

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 Hershey or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Hershey and Portland offer decent local cuisine and restaurants.

Hershey offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly 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 Hershey or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Portland is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Hershey or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for live music. However, Hershey is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Hershey is not a live music destination.

Is Hershey or Portland Better for Resorts?

Hershey is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

In Hershey, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Hershey or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. 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.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Portland?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland and Hershey.

Hershey is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Portland. 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 Hershey or Portland Better for Families?

Hershey is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hershey is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. 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.

Is Hershey or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Hershey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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 Hershey or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.

Is Hershey or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a popular place for students. However, Hershey is not popular with students.

Portland is popular with students. 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.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Portland is a popular place for its public transit. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

Is Hershey or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a great destination for its walkability. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Hershey is generally not a very walkable town. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hershey and Portland. In our opinion, Portland has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Portland than Hershey. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

The town of Hershey offers museums and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

In Portland, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Hershey or Portland?

Hershey is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hershey, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Portland, you'll find nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland has to offer.

Five days in Hershey or Portland?

Hershey 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 is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Hershey or Portland?

Hershey is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hershey or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey 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 Hershey or Portland?

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 Hershey or Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Hershey in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Hershey is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In the summer, Hershey often gets less sunshine than Portland. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hershey or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hershey for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hershey is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hershey in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hershey usually receives more rain than Portland. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hershey or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Hershey during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Hershey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. The weather in Hershey can be very cold. In January, Hershey is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 30°F (-1°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Portland. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hershey usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hershey or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Portland. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Hershey is around the same temperature as Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 53°F (12°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Hershey, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hershey usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during spring. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hershey usually receives more rain than Portland. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Hershey