A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. Columbia River Gorge for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Baltimore and Columbia River Gorge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a natural, beautiful, and scenic region. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Columbia River Gorge are popular destinations, Baltimore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baltimore is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium. Columbia River Gorge is famous for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

How is Baltimore different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

Baltimore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Is the Food Better in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Columbia River Gorge both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Baltimore. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Columbia River Gorge has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Is Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for nightlife and partying.

Baltimore offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

Baltimore is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Baltimore is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge.

Baltimore is a very kid-friendly city. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Columbia River Gorge. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Is Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Columbia River Gorge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbia River Gorge is well known for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Columbia River Gorge is a great region to visit for backpackers. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Is Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Baltimore is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Baltimore. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

Is Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Baltimore is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Baltimore is very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable city. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

One day in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Baltimore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the region of Columbia River Gorge. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

Baltimore is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Baltimore for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Baltimore. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the natural region of Columbia River Gorge. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

The diverse destination of Baltimore offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Baltimore 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 Baltimore Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Columbia River Gorge, 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 Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Columbia River Gorge. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

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

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Baltimore is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Columbia River Gorge. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Columbia River Gorge can be very cold during winter. Baltimore can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Baltimore is much colder than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Baltimore usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Baltimore or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the natural beauty.

In April, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the spring, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Baltimore