A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland vs. Seattle for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Portland or Seattle?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Portland and Seattle can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and hiking.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and beaches.

Portland and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Portland and Seattle are roughly the same size, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its small town charm. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Portland different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland or Seattle?

Seattle is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a city with good options for theatre. However, Portland is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Portland is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Portland or Seattle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seattle is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Seattle has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a very popular place for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Both Portland and Seattle are destinations which offer high quality hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland or Seattle?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Portland and Seattle.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Seattle offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Families?

Both Portland and Seattle are notable to visit with kids.

Portland is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Seattle. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Couples?

Both Portland and Seattle are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Portland or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Portland and Seattle.

Portland has some public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

You'll find some public transit in Seattle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Portland or Seattle a more walkable city?

Portland and Seattle are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Portland Worth Visiting? and Is Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Portland?

How long in Portland or Seattle?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Portland 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 Seattle.

One day in Portland or Seattle?

In Portland, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Seattle is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Portland or Seattle?

In Portland, you'll find nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland has to offer.

Seattle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portland or Seattle?

Portland is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Seattle is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Portland or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Portland and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Portland or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Portland and Seattle, 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 or Seattle?

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 or Seattle in the Summer?

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

In July, Portland is generally around the same temperature as Seattle. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 68°F (20°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In the summer, Portland often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Portland gets 338 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Portland usually gets less rain in July than Seattle. Portland gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland or Seattle in the Autumn?

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

Portland is around the same temperature as Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portland averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Portland usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Portland gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Portland usually receives less rain than Seattle. Portland gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portland or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Portland during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. In the winter, Portland is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portland in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Portland often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Portland gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

Seattle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. Portland usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Seattle. Portland gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland and Seattle. Many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Portland is generally around the same temperature as Seattle. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 51°F (11°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. Portland usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during spring. Portland gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Portland usually receives around the same amount of rain as Seattle. Portland gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Portland