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

Should you visit Lewisburg or Portland?

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

Should I visit Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a quaint, charming, and historical town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic 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.

Lewisburg and Portland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Lewisburg or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portland. Although Lewisburg 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, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg is known for its museums and historical sights. Portland is more touristy than Lewisburg 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. It is also home to Washington Park. Lewisburg is popular for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Lewisburg different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lewisburg
Portland

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

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun 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 Lewisburg or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lewisburg
Portland

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Lewisburg and Portland can be difficult as they are each decent in their own way.

Lewisburg offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

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 Lewisburg or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Lewisburg
Portland

Portland is a popular place for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Lewisburg or Portland Better for Music?

Lewisburg
Portland

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

Lewisburg is not a live music destination.


Is Lewisburg or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg
Portland

Lewisburg is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg is a good destination for visiting its old town. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Lewisburg or Portland Better for Hiking?

Lewisburg
Portland

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

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Portland?

Lewisburg
Portland

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland and Lewisburg.

Lewisburg is a great destination for shopping. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

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 Lewisburg or Portland Better for Families?

Lewisburg
Portland

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lewisburg or Portland.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Lewisburg. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Portland offers lots of family activities. 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 Lewisburg or Portland Better for Couples?

Lewisburg
Portland

Portland is a popular place for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Lewisburg or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lewisburg
Portland

Portland is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.


Is Lewisburg or Portland Better for Students?

Lewisburg
Portland

Lewisburg and Portland are good places to visit for students.

Lewisburg is popular with students. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

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

Lewisburg
Portland

Portland is a popular place for its public transit. However, Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Is Lewisburg or Portland a more walkable city?

Lewisburg
Portland

Portland is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.


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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Lewisburg?

How long in Lewisburg or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lewisburg and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Portland than in Lewisburg. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lewisburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Lewisburg or Portland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lewisburg 1-2 
    Portland 2-3

One day in Lewisburg or Portland?

The town of Lewisburg offers museums and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find live music and shopping around the city of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Lewisburg or Portland?

Lewisburg 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lewisburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the tree-lined destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lewisburg or Portland?

Lewisburg 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 nightlife and live music when visiting the scenic city of Portland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Lewisburg or Portland?

Lewisburg 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 town offers something for everyone.

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Portland or Lewisburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lewisburg is $136, while the average daily cost in Portland is $180. 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 Lewisburg and Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lewisburg $70
    Portland $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lewisburg $140
    Portland $194
Compare Hotels in Lewisburg and Portland

Looking for a hotel in Lewisburg or Portland? 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 Lewisburg


Hotels in Portland


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: Portland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lewisburg $53
    Portland $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

Also for Portland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake Oswego to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $70
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Arrival Private Transfer: $70
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $141
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $150
  • Portland Airport to The Summit at Snoqualmie Arrival Transfer: $184
  • Portland downtown to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $61
  • Private Transfer from Portland Airport (PDX) to Astoria Port: $87
  • Tigard hotel or address to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Waterfall Express -PDX: Waterfall Trolley Tickets + Transfer: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Lewisburg or Portland?

Prices for flights to both Portland and Lewisburg 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
    Lewisburg $34
    Portland $43

Typical Food Prices in Portland

For Portland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

For Portland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Portland Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour with Local Guide: $93
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Downtown Food Tour: $102
  • The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour: $105
  • The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour: $105
  • Portland Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $110
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $119
  • All-Inclusive Walking Food Tour: $119
  • 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River: $127

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lewisburg $18
    Portland $24

Tours and Activities in Portland

For Portland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Self Guided Solo "Weird and Wonderful Portland" Walking Tour in Old Town : $6.50
  • Smartphone Old Port Portland, ME Audio Walking Tour APP/GPS: $6.75
  • Portland, Maine: Walking Tour Audio Guide: $8.49
  • Downtown Portland In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Smartphone Audio Guide: $10
  • Waterfront Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Downtown Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Walking Tour: $13
  • Portland (Along the Waterfront) Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Portland Exploration: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $14
  • Self-Guided Sightseeing Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Portland Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Portland: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lewisburg $12
    Portland $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $40
  • Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Weird Bar Crawl with Fanatical Local: $59
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $65
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included): $135
  • Silver Falls Hike and Wine Tour: $179
  • Willamette Valley Wine Tasting from Portland: $189
  • From Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $210
  • Multnomah Falls, Hood River Excursion Train Ride & Wine Tour: $210
  • Willamette Valley Wine Tour - Full Day Tour: $225


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

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


Which is Bigger, Lewisburg or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg or Portland in the Summer?

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

Lewisburg is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Lewisburg averages around 74°F (24°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 Lewisburg this time of the year. In the summer, Lewisburg often gets less sunshine than Portland. Lewisburg gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Lewisburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lewisburg usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Lewisburg gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C) 
    Portland 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Lewisburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere 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, Lewisburg is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lewisburg in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

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

In October, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Portland. Lewisburg gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C) 
    Portland 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Lewisburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg can be very cold. In January, Lewisburg is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 27°F (-3°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Lewisburg often gets more sunshine than Portland. Lewisburg 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. Lewisburg usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Lewisburg gets 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C) 
    Portland 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lewisburg and Portland. The small town charm are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Lewisburg is around the same temperature as Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Lewisburg averages around 51°F (11°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 Lewisburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lewisburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during spring. Lewisburg gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C) 
    Portland 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Portland and Lewisburg

Lewisburg Portland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)