A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. Columbus for Nightlife, Couples, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus? 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.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a built-up, well-known, and vibrant city. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Columbus

Columbus is a welcoming, down-to-earth, and authentic city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Acapulco de Juarez and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Acapulco de Juarez than Columbus, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Acapulco de Juarez is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Columbus is more popular for its museums & sights. Acapulco de Juarez is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is famous for the cliff divers of La Quebrada. Columbus is well known for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

Columbus is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Columbus. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History Center.

While most people don't head to Acapulco de Juarez specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.

Is the Food Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Acapulco de Juarez. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbus. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Acapulco de Juarez just to party. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.

Columbus has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Acapulco de Juarez is a great choice. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus Better for Beaches?

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Acapulco de Juarez is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Columbus and Acapulco de Juarez.

Many visitors go to Acapulco de Juarez to go shopping. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbus. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus.

Acapulco de Juarez is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Columbus is a very family-friendly destination. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez is a world-class destination for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Acapulco de Juarez makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Acapulco de Juarez has some public transit options. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus a more walkable city?

Acapulco de Juarez and Columbus both are notable when exploring on foot.

Acapulco de Juarez is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

Columbus is somewhat walkable. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Acapulco de Juarez than Columbus because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Acapulco de Juarez, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbus.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Columbus 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 Acapulco de Juarez.

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

The city of Acapulco de Juarez offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Columbus. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Columbus is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the welcoming city of Columbus. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbus has to offer.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Acapulco de Juarez, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Columbus. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

A week in Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

Acapulco de Juarez is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

Columbus is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Acapulco de Juarez and Columbus, we can see that Columbus is more expensive. And not only is Acapulco de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Acapulco de Juarez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Acapulco de Juarez 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 Columbus would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Columbus than you might in Acapulco de Juarez.

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

Which is Bigger, Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Acapulco de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Acapulco de Juarez and Columbus, 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 Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus?

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as Columbus. The summer months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

In the summer, Acapulco de Juarez is a little warmer than Columbus. Typically, the summer temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Columbus averages at about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Acapulco de Juarez this time of the year. In the summer, Acapulco de Juarez often gets less sunshine than Columbus. Acapulco de Juarez gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbus. Acapulco de Juarez receives a lot of rain in the summer. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in July than Columbus. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus in the Autumn?

Both Columbus and Acapulco de Juarez are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbus for the shopping scene.

In October, Acapulco de Juarez is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 28°C (83°F), and Columbus fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during autumn. Acapulco de Juarez gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Acapulco de Juarez. In October, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than Columbus. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus in the Winter?

Both Columbus and Acapulco de Juarez during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Acapulco de Juarez for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Columbus in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Columbus can get quite cold in the winter. Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Columbus in the winter. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Columbus fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

It's quite sunny in Acapulco de Juarez. In the winter, Acapulco de Juarez often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Acapulco de Juarez gets 272 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun.

Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in January than Columbus. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Columbus in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Acapulco de Juarez and Columbus. Many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Columbus. Typically, the spring temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Columbus averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In Acapulco de Juarez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during spring. Acapulco de Juarez gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than Columbus. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbus and Acapulco de Juarez