A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. Columbia for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Boca Raton or Columbia?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boca Raton and Columbia. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a luxurious, posh, and outdoorsy coastal city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Columbia

Columbia is a welcoming, suburban, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Boca Raton and Columbia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Columbia?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boca Raton than Columbia. While Columbia is larger than Boca Raton, Boca Raton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boca Raton is more touristy than Columbia and is popular for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. It is also home to Red Reef Park. Columbia is popular for its southern hospitality and friendly people.

How is Boca Raton different from Columbia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Columbia?

Boca Raton is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Boca Raton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Columbia. As the state capital, there are some decent museums around town like the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Military Museum, the South Carolina State Museum, and the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum.

Is the Food Better in Boca Raton or Columbia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boca Raton is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Columbia is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Boca Raton. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

Columbia may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Barbecue and other southern favorites are among the more local dishes, but the city is also filled with fast food joints and other major chain restaurants.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Nightlife?

Boca Raton is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Boca Raton offers plenty to do in the evening. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia. You'll find live music venues as well as low key bars and more trendy cocktail lounges.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Columbia is not a resort destination.

Boca Raton is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Columbia is not a resort destination.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Columbia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Boca Raton has a few good snorkeling spots. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Columbia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton is renowned for the beache. However, Columbia is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Boca Raton. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

Columbia is not a beach destination.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Columbia is not a hiking destination.

Boca Raton is a good destination for hiking. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Columbia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Columbia?

Boca Raton is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Boca Raton is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Columbia has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find independent and locally owned shops along Devine Street and in the Five Points area. Also interesting are the Vista, which is a warehouse district, and Trenholm Plaza.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Families?

Boca Raton is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Boca Raton is a very kid-friendly coastal city. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

Columbia is a family-friendly coastal city. Around town you'll find parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. There's a zoo in the area as well as a nice state park - Sesquicentennial State Park. There's also EdVenture Children's Museum, which is filled with hands-on exhibits.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Couples?

Boca Raton is a well-known place for its romantic activities. However, Columbia is not a good city for couples.

Boca Raton is a very popular place to visit for couples. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Columbia is not always the best place to visit for a couple. You'll find parks to explore and some nice restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Students?

Columbia is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Boca Raton is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Columbia. The University of South Carolina, and other nearby colleges all bring in a decent student population.

Boca Raton is not popular with students.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boca Raton is a popular place for its public transit. However, Columbia is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Boca Raton has a few public transit options. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbia. The COMET is the bus system through town, but you really must have your own car to enjoy the city.

Is Boca Raton or Columbia a more walkable city?

Boca Raton is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Columbia is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Boca Raton is a somewhat walkable place. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

Columbia is not a very walkable coastal city. It's filled with suburban-style development and is generally very car dependent.

For even more information, also check out Is Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Columbia?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boca Raton than Columbia 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 Boca Raton.

One day in Boca Raton or Columbia?

The coastal city of Boca Raton offers museums and nightlife. 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.

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

A weekend in Boca Raton or Columbia?

Boca Raton 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.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Columbia, 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 city.

Five days in Boca Raton or Columbia?

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

Columbia, a popular city, 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 Boca Raton or Columbia?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

Columbia 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boca Raton Expensive? and Is Columbia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Columbia?

Columbia has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Boca Raton. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton and Columbia, 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 Boca Raton or Columbia?

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 Boca Raton or Columbia in the Summer?

Both Columbia and Boca Raton during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Boca Raton this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Columbia for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Boca Raton is generally around the same temperature as Columbia. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 82°F (28°C), and Columbia fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Columbia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the summer, Boca Raton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia receives 293 hours of full sun.

Columbia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in July than Columbia. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Columbia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Columbia. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Columbia in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Boca Raton is a little warmer than Columbia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Columbia fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia this time of the year. In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Columbia during autumn. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia receives 230 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Boca Raton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Columbia. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Columbia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Columbia. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Columbia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Boca Raton is much warmer than Columbia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boca Raton in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Columbia averages at about 45°F (7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the winter, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Columbia. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia receives 171 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton usually gets less rain in January than Columbia. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 3.7 inches (93 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Columbia in the Spring?

Both Columbia and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the beaches during these months.

In April, Boca Raton is generally a little warmer than Columbia. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 74°F (23°C), and Columbia fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Columbia during spring. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Columbia. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.

Typical Weather for Columbia and Boca Raton