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

Should you visit Memphis or Portland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Portland, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Memphis

Memphis is a soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a eclectic, tree-lined, and nature-filled 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.

Memphis and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Memphis or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Memphis than Portland. Memphis is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Memphis is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Portland is more touristy than Memphis and is 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. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

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 Memphis or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Memphis. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

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 Memphis or Portland Better for Nightlife?

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

Memphis has a large number of nightlife venues. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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 Memphis or Portland Better for Music?

Memphis is very popular for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

Memphis is known as a music capital around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

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.

Is Memphis or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great city for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

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.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Portland?

Portland is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

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.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Portland Better for Families?

Memphis and Portland are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Memphis offers lots of family activities. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

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 Memphis or Portland Better for Couples?

Memphis and Portland are both notable to visit as a couple.

Memphis is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

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.

Is Memphis or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Memphis 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.

Memphis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Memphis or Portland Better for Students?

For students, both Memphis and Portland are notable places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for 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.

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

Portland is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Memphis 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 Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Is Memphis or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Portland?

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

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

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

The city of Memphis offers live music and food. 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 Memphis or Portland?

Memphis 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 Memphis, 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 Memphis or Portland?

Memphis is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music 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.

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 Memphis or Portland?

Memphis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Memphis 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 Memphis Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Memphis or Portland?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Portland. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Memphis is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Memphis in July average around 83°F (29°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 Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during summer. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Memphis usually receives more rain than Portland. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Memphis or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Memphis is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In the autumn, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Portland. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets less rain in October than Portland. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Memphis or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Memphis in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland can be very cold during winter. Memphis can get quite cold in the winter. Memphis is around the same temperature as Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Memphis 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, Memphis usually receives less rain than Portland. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Memphis or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Memphis during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Memphis for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Memphis is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Memphis in April average around 64°F (18°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 Memphis. In the spring, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Portland. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Memphis