A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. New York City for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Portland, Maine or New York City?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or New York City? 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Portland, Maine and New York City: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in New York City than Portland, Maine. New York City is bigger than Portland, Maine, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New York City is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Portland, Maine is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. New York City is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City 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 New York City?

New York City 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 New York City on the map. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Portland, Maine or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Portland, Maine is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in New York City draw crowds from around the world. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Portland, Maine is not a theatre destination.

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

New York City 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, New York City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City Better for Nightlife?

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

New York City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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 New York City Better for Music?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

In New York City you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Portland, Maine or New York City Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, New York City is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful 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.

New York City is not a beach destination.

Is Portland, Maine or New York City Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine offers some nice hiking trails. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

New York City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland, Maine or New York City?

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

New York City is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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 New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its Christmas holiday experiences.

During Christmas, New York City is not to be missed. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Portland, Maine has some seasonal activities during Christmas. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Is Portland, Maine or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Portland, Maine does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in New York City offer plenty to see during the holidays. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Portland, Maine does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Portland, Maine or New York City Better for Families?

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

New York City is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

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 New York City Better for Couples?

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

New York City makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

New York City is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

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 New York City Better for Students?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

Many students frequent New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in New York City is top-notch. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around 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 New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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 New York City Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Portland, Maine or New York City?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York 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 New York City.

One day in Portland, Maine or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the seaside destination of Portland, Maine. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

New York City is a big city with plenty to do. 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 New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland, Maine. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a big city with plenty to do. 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 New York City?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Portland, Maine. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

New York City is a great place to explore. 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 New York City?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful coastal town of Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a big city with plenty to do. 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 New York City, we can see that New York City 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City 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 New York City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and New York City, 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 New York City?

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 New York City in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Portland, Maine is cooler than New York City. Typically, the summer temperatures in Portland, Maine in July average around 69°F (20°C), and New York City averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in New York City. Portland, Maine usually gets less rain in July than New York City. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both New York City 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 city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

In October, Portland, Maine is generally cooler than New York City. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 49°F (9°C), and New York City fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In October, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than New York City. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both New York City 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to New York City for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in New York City. It's quite cold in Portland, Maine in the winter. Portland, Maine is much colder than New York City in the winter. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 21°F (-6°C) in January, and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

Portland, Maine usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as New York City. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and New York City. Many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to New York City in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Portland, Maine is much colder than New York City. Typically, the spring temperatures in Portland, Maine in April average around 43°F (6°C), and New York City averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In April, Portland, Maine usually receives less rain than New York City. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New York City and Portland, Maine