A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. Los Angeles for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Los Angeles?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Los Angeles? 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 scenic, picturesque, and seaside coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling, energetic, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Portland, Maine and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland, Maine or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Portland, Maine. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Portland, Maine attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Portland, Maine or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Portland, Maine is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Portland, Maine is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Los Angeles has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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 Portland, Maine or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

In Los Angeles you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is well known for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for the beach. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Los Angeles. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

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 Portland, Maine or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

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 Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Los Angeles is a world class destination for shoppers. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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 Los Angeles Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is a decent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Portland, Maine or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles is a very family-friendly destination. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles Better for Couples?

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

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Los Angeles is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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

Los Angeles is a popular place for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

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 Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Los Angeles is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable city. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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 Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Portland, Maine?

How long in Portland, Maine or Los Angeles?

Both Portland, Maine and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Portland, Maine. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, Maine, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Portland, Maine or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back coastal town of Portland, Maine. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Portland, Maine or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the picturesque destination of Portland, Maine. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Portland, Maine or Los Angeles?

The seaside coastal town of Portland, Maine offers shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles 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.

A week in Portland, Maine or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Portland, Maine. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

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 Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Portland, Maine much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Portland, Maine would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Portland, Maine 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Portland, Maine.

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 Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

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 Portland, Maine or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Portland, Maine as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Portland, Maine is around the same temperature as Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Portland, Maine are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In the autumn, Portland, Maine is much colder than Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portland, Maine in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In October, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Portland, Maine during the winter are popular places to visit. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Portland, Maine in the winter. In January, Portland, Maine is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 21°F (-6°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in January than Los Angeles. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and Los Angeles. Many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Portland, Maine is much colder than Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Portland, Maine