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

Should you visit Houston or Kennebunkport?

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 Houston and Kennebunkport. 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.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Houston and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Houston or Kennebunkport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Kennebunkport are popular destinations, Houston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Houston is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Kennebunkport attracts visitors for its food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Houston or Kennebunkport?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Houston is great for its historical sights. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Kennebunkport offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.


Is the Food Better in Houston or Kennebunkport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kennebunkport. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Houston or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Houston is great for nightlife. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Is Houston or Kennebunkport Better for Music?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Houston is a popular place for live music. However, Kennebunkport is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Kennebunkport is not a live music destination.


Is Houston or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is well known for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Kennebunkport to choose from. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Kennebunkport offers some nice hiking trails. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Kennebunkport?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Kennebunkport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.


Is Houston or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Both Houston and Kennebunkport are superb family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kennebunkport. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Is Houston or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Kennebunkport frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Houston or Kennebunkport Better for Students?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Houston is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kennebunkport is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Kennebunkport is not popular with students.


Is Houston or Kennebunkport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Houston
Kennebunkport

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Kennebunkport.

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

Is Houston or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Houston
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable place. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Kennebunkport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Houston?

How long in Houston or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Houston or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Houston 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 Kennebunkport.


  • How many days in Houston or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Houston 2-3 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Houston or Kennebunkport?

Houston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Kennebunkport is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Houston or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Kennebunkport might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kennebunkport has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Kennebunkport?

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the southern big city of Houston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Houston or Kennebunkport?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Houston. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kennebunkport. Since Kennebunkport is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Houston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $262, while the average daily cost in Kennebunkport is $220. 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 Houston and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Houston and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Houston or Kennebunkport? 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 Houston


Hotels in Kennebunkport


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: Houston Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Kennebunkport $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • William P.Hobby Airport (HOU): Transfer to Port of Galveston: $540
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): Transfer to Houston: $347
  • SUV Airport Transfer in Houston: $200
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $193
  • George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Transfer: $193
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan from-to HoustonAirport in Houston Downtown: $176
  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $168
  • William P. Hobby Airport to Galveston Port Arrival Transfer: $168
  • Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Houston 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
    Houston $35
    Kennebunkport $67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Houston.

  • Seasonal Pizza From Scratch Experience in Houston: $55
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $72
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $87
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Houston $14
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Houston Ghosts and Hauntings By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 2 Hours H- Town Tour with 15ft Open Air Party Truck On Wheels: $46
  • 2-Hour Private Sightseeing Cart Tour of Houston and Galveston: $256
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Admission and Shuttle: $85
  • Astroville Private Best of Houston City Driving Tour: $375
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour & NASA Space Center Admission with Shuttle: $85
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned): $32
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Condtioned): $32
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

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

  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $27
  • Ghost Tour with Folklore, Gossip & Scandals: $29
  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $30
  • Historic District Walking Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $140

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Kennebunkport $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

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

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


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

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


Which is Bigger, Houston or Kennebunkport?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 1300 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Houston and Kennebunkport, 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 Houston or Kennebunkport?

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 Houston or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Houston during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Houston is generally a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 84°F (29°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Kennebunkport. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Houston or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Kennebunkport. Many travelers come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Houston is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Houston or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Houston as well as Kennebunkport. Many visitors come to Houston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kennebunkport can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Houston is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Houston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

Houston usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Kennebunkport. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Houston or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

Both Kennebunkport and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Houston for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Houston is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 70°F (21°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Houston usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Houston

Houston Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)