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

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Juneau?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Juneau? 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.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a laid-back, scenic, and picturesque coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Portland, Maine and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland, Maine or Juneau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Portland, Maine and Juneau are both popular with visitors, Juneau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Juneau is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Portland, Maine is known for its nightlife and beaches. Juneau is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Juneau is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Juneau offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Juneau is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Juneau is an experience not to be missed. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Portland, Maine or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Portland, Maine is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland, Maine. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Portland, Maine or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a well-known place for the beache. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

Portland, Maine is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Juneau specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland, Maine or Juneau?

Juneau is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Portland, Maine or Juneau Better for Christmas?

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

The Christmas holiday can be fun in Portland, Maine. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Juneau does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Portland, Maine or Juneau Better for Families?

Juneau is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Juneau is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

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 Portland, Maine or Juneau Better for Couples?

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Portland, Maine or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Juneau is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Juneau is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

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

Juneau 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

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 Portland, Maine or Juneau a more walkable city?

Juneau is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Juneau is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable coastal town. 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 Portland, Maine Worth Visiting? and Is Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Portland, Maine?

How long in Portland, Maine or Juneau?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau 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 Juneau.

One day in Portland, Maine or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland, Maine. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The scenic destination of Juneau offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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.

A weekend in Portland, Maine or Juneau?

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The city of Juneau offers museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Portland, Maine or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland, Maine. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Juneau is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Portland, Maine or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the picturesque destination of Portland, Maine. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Portland, Maine and Juneau, we can see that Portland, Maine is more expensive. And not only is Juneau much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Juneau would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Juneau 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 Juneau.

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

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or Juneau?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and Juneau, 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 Portland, Maine or Juneau?

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 Portland, Maine or Juneau in the Summer?

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

In July, Portland, Maine is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 69°F (20°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Portland, Maine, it's very sunny this time of the year. Portland, Maine usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Portland, Maine gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Portland, Maine usually receives less rain than Juneau. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Juneau in the Autumn?

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

Portland, Maine is much warmer than Juneau in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 49°F (9°C) in October, and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

In the autumn, Portland, Maine often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Portland, Maine gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Portland, Maine usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Juneau in the Winter?

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

Juneau can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland, Maine. In the winter, Portland, Maine is cooler than Juneau. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portland, Maine in January average around 21°F (-6°C), and Juneau averages at about 24°F (-4°C).

Portland, Maine usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Portland, Maine gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In January, Portland, Maine usually receives less rain than Juneau. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Juneau in the Spring?

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

Juneau can be very cold during spring. In April, Portland, Maine is generally a little warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 43°F (6°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. In the spring, Portland, Maine often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Portland, Maine gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Juneau and Portland, Maine