A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Juneau vs. Portland for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Juneau or Portland?

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

Should I visit Juneau 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.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and hiking.

Juneau and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Juneau or Portland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Juneau and Portland are popular destinations, Juneau has more sights and attractions for tourists. Juneau is very popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Portland attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and small town charm. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier. Portland is famous for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Juneau different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Juneau 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 Juneau. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State 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 Juneau or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Juneau 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 Juneau. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Juneau or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Portland is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Juneau or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Juneau 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.

Juneau is not a live music destination.

Is Juneau or Portland Better for Hiking?

Juneau is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Juneau visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Juneau or Portland?

Juneau is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Juneau or Portland Better for Families?

Juneau 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.

Juneau is a very family-friendly destination. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

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 Juneau or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Juneau is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Juneau or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Juneau and Portland are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Juneau is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Is Juneau or Portland Better for Students?

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

Portland is a good city to visit for 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.

Juneau is not popular with students.

Is Juneau 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, Juneau is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Public transit is mostly limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Is Juneau or Portland a more walkable city?

Juneau and Portland both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Juneau is a very walkable city. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Juneau?

How long in Juneau or Portland?

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

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

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

One day in Juneau or Portland?

The beautiful city of Juneau offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Juneau or Portland?

Juneau 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Juneau, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Portland 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 Juneau or Portland?

Juneau is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Juneau or Portland?

Juneau is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the progressive destination of Portland. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Juneau and Portland, we can see that Portland is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Juneau or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Juneau 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 Juneau 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 Juneau or Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Juneau during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Juneau in the summer for the hiking and 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.

In July, Juneau is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Juneau average around 56°F (13°C), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Juneau often gets less sunshine than Portland. Juneau gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. Juneau usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Juneau gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Juneau or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Juneau and Portland. Most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area 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.

Juneau is much colder than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Juneau averages around 42°F (6°C) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Juneau usually receives less sunshine than Portland during autumn. Juneau gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Juneau usually receives more rain than Portland. Juneau gets 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Juneau or Portland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Juneau as well as Portland. The winter months attract visitors to Juneau because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Juneau can be very cold. In the winter, Juneau is much colder than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Juneau in January average around 24°F (-4°C), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Juneau often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland. Juneau gets 87 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Portland. Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. Juneau usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Juneau gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Juneau or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Juneau are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Juneau this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the spring. In April, Juneau is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Juneau average around 40°F (4°C), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland. Juneau usually receives less sunshine than Portland during spring. Juneau gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Juneau usually receives more rain than Portland. Juneau gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Juneau