A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Bangor for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Washington or Bangor?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Bangor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Bangor

Bangor is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Washington and Bangor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Washington or Bangor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Bangor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bangor is more popular for its small town charm. Washington is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Bangor is well known for its history as a lumber town.

How is Washington different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or Bangor?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Washington on the map. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.


Is Washington or Bangor Better for Theater?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Bangor is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Bangor is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Washington or Bangor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Washington or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Washington offers plenty to do in the evening. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.


Is Washington or Bangor Better for Music?

Washington
Bangor

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

You'll find some good live music in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Bangor is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Bangor Better for Hiking?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Bangor?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.


Is Washington or Bangor Better for Christmas?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Bangor does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination during the Christmas season. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Bangor does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Bangor Better for Families?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Washington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Bangor is a family-friendly city. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Washington or Bangor Better for Couples?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is a well-known place for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.


Is Washington or Bangor Better for Students?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Bangor is not popular with students.

Washington is a very popular city for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Bangor is not popular with students.

Is Washington or Bangor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Bangor is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Is Washington or Bangor a more walkable city?

Washington
Bangor

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Bangor is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Bangor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Washington?

How long in Washington or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Washington or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Washington than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington than Bangor 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 Washington.


  • How many days in Washington or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Washington 3-7 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Washington or Bangor?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and food around the laid back town of Bangor, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangor, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Bangor?

Washington is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food and shopping around the destination of Bangor, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Washington or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bangor, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Washington or Bangor?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Bangor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Bangor or Washington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $197. 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 Washington and Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Washington and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Washington or Bangor? 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 Washington


Hotels in Bangor


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Bangor $36
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Transfer in private car from Washington Ronald Reagan Airport to Washington City: $53
  • Washington Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Private Departure Transfer to Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Washington City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $63
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • Private Transfer in Washington DC: $70
  • Private Transfer- Dulles Airport (IAD) to Washington City Center: $80
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington City to Dulles Airport: $88
  • Private One-Way Washington Airport Transfer To/From Washington: $91
  • Transfer from Ronald Reagan Airport DCA to Washington DC by SUV: $93
  • Arrival Transfer Dulles Airport IAD to Washington DC by Sedan: $106

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $68
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor and Washington 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
    Washington $38
    Bangor $54
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
  • Little Ethiopia Food Tour: $67
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
  • Dupont Circle Food Tour: $80
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $96
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $150
  • Washington DC Christmas Eve Plated Dinner Cruise: $206

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Bangor $45

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • The Kennedy Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • DC's Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington, DC: Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Kennedy Homes of Georgetown: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Scandals & Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Lincoln Memorial to the Cap Hill D.C. Smart Phone App/GPS Tour: $6.75
  • Washington DC Outdoor Escape Game Tour: FBI vs. Bank Robbers: $7.06
  • The National Mall: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Washington, DC: National Air and Space Museum Audio Tour: $9.00
  • D.C: White House Museum & President's Park Audio Tour (EN): $9.00

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Bangor $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $35
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


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


Which is Bigger, Washington or Bangor?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Bangor, 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 Washington or Bangor?

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 Washington or Bangor in the Summer?

Both Bangor and Washington during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bangor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Washington is generally a little warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bangor. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Washington 79°F (26°C) 
    Bangor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Washington or Bangor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Bangor. Many visitors come to Washington in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bangor for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

Washington is much warmer than Bangor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Bangor fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, Washington usually receives less rain than Bangor. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Washington 60°F (15°C) 
    Bangor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Washington or Bangor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Washington as well as Bangor. Most visitors come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Bangor because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bangor can be very cold. Washington can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Washington is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Bangor averages at about 18°F (-8°C).

Washington usually gets less rain in January than Bangor. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Washington 35°F (1°C) 
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Washington or Bangor in the Spring?

Both Bangor and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Washington because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Bangor this time of year.

In April, Washington is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Bangor. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Washington 56°F (14°C) 
    Bangor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bangor and Washington

Washington Bangor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)