A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Portland, Maine for Families, Nightlife, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

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

Should I visit Ocean City or Portland, Maine? 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.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a active, energetic, and fun-filled city. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a laid-back, scenic, and picturesque coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Ocean City and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ocean City. Although Ocean City and Portland, Maine are popular destinations, Ocean City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ocean City is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and resorts, while Portland, Maine attracts visitors for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Ocean City is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. It is also well known for the Ocean City boardwalk. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Ocean City different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

Ocean City is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Ocean City offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ocean City or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Ocean City and Portland, Maine both to be nice destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ocean City area. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Ocean City is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine Better for Resorts?

Ocean City is well known for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Ocean City is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Ocean City and Portland, Maine are high quality choices.

Ocean City is considered a top beach destination. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Portland, Maine is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine is a good destination for hiking. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Portland, Maine to go shopping. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is a moderate coastal town for its Christmas activities. However, Ocean City does not offer Christmas activities.

Many enjoy the Christmas activities while in Portland, Maine. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Ocean City does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Ocean City is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Ocean City is a very family-friendly destination. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Ocean City is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Ocean City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ocean City is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Ocean City or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Ocean City and Portland, Maine both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Ocean City is generally not very walkable. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Ocean City Worth Visiting? and Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ocean City and Portland, Maine. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ocean City than in Portland, Maine. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland, Maine.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ocean City than Portland, Maine 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 Ocean City.

One day in Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

The active destination of Ocean City offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With shopping and nightlife around the seaside coastal town of Portland, Maine, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

The city of Ocean City offers food and nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Portland, Maine, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

Ocean City is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

The active city of Ocean City offers food and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Portland, Maine is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City and Portland, Maine, 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 Ocean City or Portland, Maine?

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 Ocean City or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocean City and Portland, Maine. The summer months attract visitors to Ocean City because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

Ocean City is a little warmer than Portland, Maine in the summer. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Ocean City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Ocean City usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Ocean City gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ocean City or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ocean City as well as Portland, Maine. The shopping scene are the main draw to Ocean City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Ocean City is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ocean City in October average around 58°F (14°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 49°F (9°C).

Ocean City usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland, Maine. Ocean City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

Both Portland, Maine and Ocean City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ocean City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland, Maine can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Ocean City. In January, Ocean City is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Ocean City average around 35°F (2°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

In January, Ocean City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland, Maine. Ocean City gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ocean City or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

Both Portland, Maine and Ocean City during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ocean City in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Ocean City is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the spring. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Ocean City usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Portland, Maine. Ocean City gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Ocean City