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

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Vail?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Vail? 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 seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Vail

Vail is a scenic, vibrant, and upscale ski town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and hiking.

Portland, Maine and Vail: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vail. Although Portland, Maine and Vail are both popular with visitors, Vail has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vail is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Portland, Maine is known for its beaches. Vail is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also home to The Vail Ski Resort. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Portland, Maine or Vail Better for Skiing?

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for winter skiing. However, Portland, Maine is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Vail should be on your list. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Portland, Maine is not a skiing destination.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Portland, Maine and Vail can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Portland, Maine area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vail. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Portland, Maine or Vail Better for Nightlife?

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

Vail is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail Better for Music?

Vail is a popular place for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Vail is active and vibrant. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Vail Better for Resorts?

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

Vail is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Vail Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a great coastal town for the beache. However, Vail 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.

Vail is not a beach destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Vail Better for Hiking?

Vail is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

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 Vail?

Vail 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 Vail. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail Better for Christmas?

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its Christmas holiday experiences.

During Christmas, Vail is not to be missed. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

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 Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

Vail is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Portland, Maine does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Vail offer plenty to see during the holidays. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Portland, Maine does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Portland, Maine or Vail Better for Families?

Vail is an amazing ski town 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, Vail is a very family-friendly destination. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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 Vail Better for Couples?

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Vail makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vail is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Vail. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels 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 Vail Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vail 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 Vail, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service through the area.

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 Vail a more walkable city?

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Getting around Vail on foot is easy. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Portland, Maine or Vail?

Both Portland, Maine and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vail 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 Vail.

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

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

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

One day in Portland, Maine or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that skiing 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 Vail?

Portland, Maine is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Vail?

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Portland, Maine. This coastal town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Vail is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. This ski town 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 Vail?

The laid-back coastal town of Portland, Maine offers shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. 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 Vail, we can see that Vail 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 Vail would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vail 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 Vail Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or Vail?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and Vail, 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.