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

Should you visit Boston or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Boston and Columbia River Gorge. 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.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a scenic, natural, and beautiful region. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Boston and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Columbia River Gorge is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. Columbia River Gorge is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

How is Boston 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 Boston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Theater?

Boston is a well-known place for theatre. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Columbia River Gorge is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Columbia River Gorge can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

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

Is Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Boston 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.

Boston offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Boston is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Columbia River Gorge does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Columbia River Gorge does not have a historic old town.

Is Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular spot for hiking. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Columbia River Gorge?

Both Boston and Columbia River Gorge are good shopping destinations.

Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

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 Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Christmas?

Boston is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Columbia River Gorge does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Columbia River Gorge does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a well-known place for its Christmas markets. However, Columbia River Gorge does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Columbia River Gorge does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Columbia River Gorge is very family-friendly. 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 Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

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

Columbia River Gorge is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Boston or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for students. However, Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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

Is Boston or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Boston or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Columbia River Gorge 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 Boston.

One day in Boston or Columbia River Gorge?

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or Columbia River Gorge?

Boston is a fun place to experience. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Columbia River Gorge is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Boston for five days. Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbia River Gorge. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or Columbia River Gorge?

The proud big city of Boston offers nightlife and live music. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the natural destination of Columbia River Gorge. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Boston is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the summer. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. Boston usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Boston usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Boston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Boston is around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boston in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Boston often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets more rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Columbia River Gorge. The winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

It's quite cold in Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The weather in Boston can be very cold. In January, Boston is generally much colder than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 29°F (-2°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

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

Columbia River Gorge receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Boston usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Boston as well as Columbia River Gorge. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the natural beauty.

Boston is cooler than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In the spring, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 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 Boston