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

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Portland?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Portland

Portland is a quirky, eclectic, and tree-lined city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Kennebunkport and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Portland?

Both Portland and Kennebunkport have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Kennebunkport is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Portland is known for its music and hiking. Kennebunkport is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. 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.

How is Kennebunkport different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Kennebunkport is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley 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 Kennebunkport or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kennebunkport 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 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.

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 Kennebunkport or Portland Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Kennebunkport and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities Kennebunkport has a few options to choose from. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

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.

Is Kennebunkport or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for live music. However, Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport is not a live music destination.

Is Kennebunkport or Portland Better for Resorts?

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

In Kennebunkport, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Kennebunkport or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Portland?

Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

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 Kennebunkport or Portland Better for Families?

Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Kennebunkport or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Kennebunkport makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

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 Kennebunkport or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Portland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Is Kennebunkport or Portland Better for Students?

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

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.

Kennebunkport is not popular with students.

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

Portland is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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

Is Kennebunkport or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is great for its walkability. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kennebunkport and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport than in Portland. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Kennebunkport, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the scenic destination of Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Kennebunkport or Portland?

Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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. 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.

Five days in Kennebunkport or Portland?

Kennebunkport 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.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the quirky destination of Portland. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

A week in Kennebunkport or Portland?

Kennebunkport 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Portland. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kennebunkport and Portland, we can see that Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kennebunkport or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport or Portland?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Portland. Many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Kennebunkport is around the same temperature as Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Kennebunkport, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kennebunkport usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Kennebunkport gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Portland. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Portland. Most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, 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, Kennebunkport is cooler than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kennebunkport in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Kennebunkport often gets more sunshine than Portland. Kennebunkport gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport can be very cold. In January, Kennebunkport is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 21°F (-6°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Kennebunkport usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Kennebunkport gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Kennebunkport usually receives less rain than Portland. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Kennebunkport during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Kennebunkport is much colder than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kennebunkport. In the spring, Kennebunkport often gets less sunshine than Portland. Kennebunkport gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Kennebunkport