A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Martha's Vineyard vs. Portland for Couples, Food, Hiking, and Nightlife

Should you visit Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard 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.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a peaceful, affluent, and coastal island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Martha's Vineyard and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Martha's Vineyard or Portland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Martha's Vineyard than Portland, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Martha's Vineyard is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its nightlife, music, and hiking. Martha's Vineyard is well known for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping. Also, Martha's Vineyard is famous for the Aquinnah Cliffs. Portland is well known 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 Martha's Vineyard different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Martha's Vineyard or Portland?

You'll find a number of respectable museums and attractions in both Portland and Martha's Vineyard.

While most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Portland is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a good destination for its music scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Martha's Vineyard is not a live music destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

Martha's Vineyard is a world class resort vacation destination. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Beaches?

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Martha's Vineyard attract visitors from all over. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great city for hiking. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Martha's Vineyard is a good destination for hiking. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Is the Shopping Better in Martha's Vineyard or Portland?

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Families?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Portland are notable family-friendly destinations.

Martha's Vineyard offers lots of family activities. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

Portland is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Martha's Vineyard is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for backpackers.

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.

Martha's Vineyard is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Budget options are limited, making this an inconvenient destination for backpackers.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Martha's Vineyard 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.

Martha's Vineyard is not popular with students.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Portland is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known 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 Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its walkability.

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

Martha's Vineyard is somewhat walkable. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Martha's Vineyard?

How long in Martha's Vineyard or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Martha's Vineyard and Portland. In our opinion, Portland has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Portland than Martha's Vineyard. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Martha's Vineyard, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard or Portland?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Martha's Vineyard or Portland?

Martha's Vineyard is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Martha's Vineyard, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With live music and shopping around the tree-lined city of Portland, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Martha's Vineyard or Portland?

Martha's Vineyard 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 shopping and nightlife when visiting the eclectic destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Martha's Vineyard or Portland?

Martha's Vineyard is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

When is the best time to visit Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Martha's Vineyard and Portland. Most visitors come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Martha's Vineyard is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Martha's Vineyard, it's very sunny this time of the year. Martha's Vineyard usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Martha's Vineyard gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Martha's Vineyard usually receives more rain than Portland. Martha's Vineyard gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Martha's Vineyard as well as Portland. The autumn months attract visitors to Martha's Vineyard because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

In October, Martha's Vineyard is generally around the same temperature as Portland. Daily temperatures in Martha's Vineyard average around 53°F (12°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Martha's Vineyard this time of the year. In the autumn, Martha's Vineyard often gets more sunshine than Portland. Martha's Vineyard gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Martha's Vineyard usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Martha's Vineyard 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. It's quite cold in Martha's Vineyard in the winter. Martha's Vineyard is much colder than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Martha's Vineyard averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Martha's Vineyard gets 170 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, Martha's Vineyard usually receives less rain than Portland. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Martha's Vineyard during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Martha's Vineyard is cooler than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Martha's Vineyard. In the spring, Martha's Vineyard often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland. Martha's Vineyard gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Martha's Vineyard usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Martha's Vineyard