A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tallahassee vs. Portland for Attractions, Backpackers, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tallahassee or Portland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Portland 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.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Tallahassee and Portland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Portland than Tallahassee. Portland is bigger than Tallahassee, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Portland is better known for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is more popular for its museums. Portland is more touristy than Tallahassee and is 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. Also, Portland is famous for Washington Park. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallahassee
Portland

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital 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 the Food Better in Tallahassee or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Portland

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tallahassee and Portland can be difficult as they are each respectable in their own way.

Tallahassee may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Portland offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Tallahassee or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Portland

The vibe at night is notable in both Tallahassee and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities Tallahassee has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. 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 Tallahassee or Portland Better for Music?

Tallahassee
Portland

Portland is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Tallahassee is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Tallahassee is not a live music destination.


Is Tallahassee or Portland Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Portland

Portland is great for hiking. However, Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. 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.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Portland?

Tallahassee
Portland

If you're looking to go shopping, Tallahassee and Portland both offer plenty of notable spots.

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Portland is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Tallahassee or Portland Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Portland

Both Tallahassee and Portland are notable to visit with kids.

Tallahassee offers lots of family activities. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Portland is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Tallahassee or Portland Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Portland

Portland is a city with good options for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Portland is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Tallahassee or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Portland

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Plenty of backpackers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Is Tallahassee or Portland Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Portland

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

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

Tallahassee
Portland

Portland is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Public transit is generally limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Is Tallahassee or Portland a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Portland

Portland is great for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallahassee and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Portland than in Tallahassee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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


  • How many days in Tallahassee or Portland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Portland 2-3

One day in Tallahassee or Portland?

The city of Tallahassee offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the progressive city of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.


A weekend in Tallahassee or Portland?

Tallahassee 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tallahassee, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the progressive destination of Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city 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.

Five days in Tallahassee or Portland?

Tallahassee 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.

The progressive city of Portland offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Tallahassee or Portland?

Tallahassee is a great place to explore. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Portland. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Portland or Tallahassee?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $156, while the average daily cost in Portland is $180. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tallahassee and Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Portland $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Portland $194
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Portland

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee or Portland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Tallahassee


Hotels in Portland


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Portland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Portland $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

Also for Portland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $191
  • Portland Airport to The Summit at Snoqualmie Arrival Transfer: $189
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $153
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $153
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Arrival Private Transfer: $95
  • Private Transfer from Portland City Hotels to Astoria Cruise Port: $89
  • Private Transfer from Portland Airport (PDX) to Astoria Port: $89
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Tigard hotel or address to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $77
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Arrival Private Transfer: $72
  • Lake Oswego to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Portland?

Prices for flights to both Portland and Tallahassee change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Tallahassee $47
    Portland $43

Typical Food Prices in Portland

For Portland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

For Portland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Immersive Tacos Cooking Class in Portland: $55
  • Portland Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Secret Food Tour with Local Guide: $97
  • Downtown Portland Food Tour : $99
  • The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour: $105
  • The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour: $105
  • Portland Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $110
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $118
  • Alphabet District Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Portland $24

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $250
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $492
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $195
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $383
  • Trecherous Tallahassee Haunted Walking Tour: $30

Tours and Activities in Portland

For Portland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-hour Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River: $102
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour Portland Private Boat Tour with Captain - All Inclusive: $300
  • 2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River: $86
  • 7 Wonders of the Gorge 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise: $90
  • 8-Hour Guided Fishing Adventure in Portland, Oregon: $250
  • Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland: $75
  • Air Tour of Mount Hood and Columbia River Gorge: $289
  • Air Tour of Multnomah Falls & Columbia Gorge from Portland: $159
  • Airplane Adventures in the Columbia River Gorge Air Tour: $109
  • Airplane Flight Tour over Portland, Oregon: $99
  • All Day Northern Oregon Wineries and Forest Bike Tour: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Portland $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Oregon Priority Wine Tasting Pass: $40
  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $40
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $65
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included): $135
  • Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch: $210
  • From Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $210
  • Bed and Breakfast Wine Tour - Small Group, Joinable/Sharable: $230
  • Willamette Valley Wine Tour: $235


When comparing the travel costs between Tallahassee and Portland, we can see that Portland 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 Tallahassee Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Tallahassee. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee and Portland, 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 Tallahassee or Portland?

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 Tallahassee or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Portland. The summer months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In the summer, Tallahassee is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tallahassee in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallahassee usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Tallahassee gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Portland. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Portland 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Portland in the Autumn?

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

In October, Tallahassee is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 69°F (20°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallahassee this time of the year. In the autumn, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Portland. Tallahassee gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Portland 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Portland in the Winter?

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

Portland can get quite cold in the winter. Tallahassee is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Tallahassee gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Tallahassee usually receives less rain than Portland. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Portland 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Tallahassee during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Tallahassee is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tallahassee in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. In the spring, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Portland. Tallahassee gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Portland 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Portland and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Portland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)