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

Should you visit Atlanta or Columbus?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Columbus, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a suburban, cultural, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Columbus

Columbus is a down-to-earth, authentic, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Atlanta and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Columbus?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Atlanta than Columbus. While Columbus is larger than Atlanta, Atlanta has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Atlanta is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium. Columbus is well known for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Atlanta different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Columbus?

Atlanta
Columbus

Atlanta is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Atlanta from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Columbus offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Columbus? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Columbus

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Atlanta. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

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 Atlanta or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Columbus

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

Atlanta has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

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 the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Columbus?

Atlanta
Columbus

Atlanta is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Atlanta. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Columbus offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Atlanta or Columbus Better for Families?

Atlanta
Columbus

Atlanta and Columbus are both very good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Columbus is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Atlanta or Columbus Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Columbus

Atlanta is a popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

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 Atlanta or Columbus Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Columbus

Atlanta is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Columbus is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there is a hostel in town for backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Atlanta or Columbus Better for Students?

Atlanta
Columbus

Atlanta is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Columbus is not popular with students.

Atlanta is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Columbus is not popular with students.

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

Atlanta
Columbus

Atlanta and Columbus both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

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 Atlanta or Columbus a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Columbus

Atlanta and Columbus are notable when it comes to walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

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 Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Atlanta or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Atlanta than Columbus because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbus.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Atlanta or Columbus? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Columbus 1-2

One day in Atlanta or Columbus?

Atlanta is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Columbus, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Atlanta or Columbus?

Atlanta 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 Atlanta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Columbus, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbus has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Columbus?

Atlanta 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.

Columbus is a great place to explore. 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.


A week in Atlanta or Columbus?

Atlanta 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbus. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Columbus. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


Which place is cheaper, Columbus or Atlanta?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in Columbus is $158. 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 Atlanta and Columbus in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Columbus $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Columbus $144
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Columbus

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Columbus? 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Columbus


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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Columbus Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Columbus $50
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

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

  • Transfer in executiveprivate vehicle from Atlanta Airport(ATL) -Atlanta Downtown: $53
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Downtown to Atlanta Airport: $67
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Downtown: $67
  • San Jose Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to San Jose Costa: $35
  • Roundtrip transfer in executive private car from Atlanta Airport to Alpharetta: $144
  • Roundtrip Transfer PrivateExecutive Vehicle Atlanta Airport(ATL)-AtlantaDowntown: $105
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Business Car: $120
  • Private Transfer: Atlanta to H. J. Airport ATL in Business Car: $120
  • Private Transfer from Atlanta (ATL) Airport to Atlanta City: $95
  • Private Car Transfer From Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Metro Area: $67
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL):Transfer to Atlanta: $282
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $197

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Columbus

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

  • Columbus Ohio (CMH) Airport Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: $180
  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $132
  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Columbus to Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) - Departure Private Transfer: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Columbus?

Prices for flights to both Columbus and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $43
    Columbus $49
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

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


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

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

  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Columbus $46

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market: $95
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta: $69
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Midtown Atlanta: $69
  • 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour : $99
  • 3-Hour Private Atlanta MCU Comics Inspired Film Location Tour: $159
  • 90-Minute Guided Sightseeing Tour by E-Car or MiniBus: $36
  • 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta: $36
  • African-American Heritage&Civil Rights Atlanta Half-Day Tour: $666
  • Art on the Streets: Private Atlanta Public and Street Art Tour: $159
  • Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus: $70
  • Atlanta Beltline Cocktails and Bites Experience: $90
  • Atlanta Braves Baseball Game Ticket at Truist Park: $17

Tours and Activities in Columbus

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

  • Columbus Blue Jackets Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Nationwide Arena: $21
  • Columbus Scavenger Hunt Adventure : $21
  • 1-Hour Themed Escape Room Adventure & Narrative: $41
  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Columbus with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Ticket: $28
  • The Escape Game Epic 60-Minute Adventures: $41
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Columbus by Crazy Dash: $10

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Columbus $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120


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


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 74% larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta 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 Atlanta or Columbus?

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 Atlanta or Columbus in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Columbus. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Atlanta is a little warmer than Columbus. Typically, the summer temperatures in Atlanta in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Columbus averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbus this time of the year. In Atlanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Columbus during summer. Atlanta gets 271 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun in the summer.

Columbus receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Columbus. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlanta 82°F (28°C) 
    Columbus 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Columbus in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Columbus. Most visitors come to Atlanta for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Columbus because of the shopping scene.

In October, Atlanta is generally a little warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 66°F (19°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlanta this time of the year. In the autumn, Atlanta often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Atlanta gets 222 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun.

Atlanta usually gets more rain in October than Columbus. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlanta 66°F (19°C) 
    Columbus 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Columbus in the Winter?

Both Columbus and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

It's quite cold in Columbus in the winter. Atlanta is much warmer than Columbus in the winter. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Columbus fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Atlanta usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during winter. Atlanta gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In January, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Columbus. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlanta 45°F (7°C) 
    Columbus 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Columbus in the Spring?

Both Columbus and Atlanta during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year.

In the spring, Atlanta is much warmer than Columbus. Typically, the spring temperatures in Atlanta in April average around 65°F (18°C), and Columbus averages at about 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlanta. In the spring, Atlanta often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Atlanta gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in April than Columbus. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlanta 65°F (18°C) 
    Columbus 54°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Columbus and Atlanta

Atlanta Columbus
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Feb 49°F (9°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Mar 57°F (14°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)