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

Should you visit Houston or Portland?

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 Portland. 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 southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food. See Houston travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a eclectic, tree-lined, and nature-filled city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Portland travel costs.

Houston and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Houston or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston than Portland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Houston is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Portland attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Portland is more touristy than Houston and 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. 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 Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Houston is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Houston. 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.

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 Houston or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Houston is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Houston. 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.

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 Houston or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Houston is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Houston has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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.

Is Houston or Portland Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Houston or Portland.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

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

Is Houston or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Houston 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.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Portland?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland and Houston.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Portland has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Houston or Portland More Beautiful?

Portland is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Houston or Portland Better for Families?

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

Houston is a very family-friendly destination. 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 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 Houston or Portland Better for Couples?

Houston and Portland both nice destinations for a couple.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Portland is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Houston or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Houston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this sprawling city, but there are some hostels and cheap motels.

Is Houston or Portland Better for Students?

Houston and Portland are nice places to visit for students.

Houston is popular with students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

It's common for students to visit Portland. 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.

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

Portland is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known 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 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.

Is Houston or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Houston?

How long in Houston or Portland?

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

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

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

One day in Houston or Portland?

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Houston or Portland?

Houston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Houston, 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 Houston or Portland?

Houston 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 Houston or Portland?

Houston is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Houston and Portland, we can see that Houston 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 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 Portland.

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

Which is Bigger, Houston or Portland?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston or Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Houston as well as Portland. Most visitors come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Houston is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 84°F (29°C), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Houston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

Houston is much warmer than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Portland. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Houston or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Houston during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. In the winter, Houston is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Houston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Houston usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Portland. Many travelers come to Houston for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Houston is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 70°F (21°C), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Houston usually receives more rain than Portland. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Houston