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

Should you visit Columbia or Pittsburgh?

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

Should I visit Columbia or Pittsburgh? 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.

Columbia

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

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a authentic, under-rated, and industrial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Columbia and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Columbia or Pittsburgh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pittsburgh than Columbia, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Pittsburgh is more touristy than Columbia and is popular for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood". It is also home to Mount Washington. Columbia is popular for its southern hospitality and friendly people.

How is Columbia different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Columbia or Pittsburgh?

Columbia
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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 Columbia or Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Columbia is not a good city for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Pittsburgh. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

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 Columbia or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Columbia
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh offers plenty to do in the evening. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

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 the Shopping Better in Columbia or Pittsburgh?

Columbia
Pittsburgh

Both Columbia and Pittsburgh are good shopping destinations.

Columbia offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Pittsburgh has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.


Is Columbia or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Columbia
Pittsburgh

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Columbia or Pittsburgh.

Columbia is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Columbia or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Columbia
Pittsburgh

Most people don't think of either Columbia or Pittsburgh as a couple's destination.

Most people don't think of Columbia as a couple's destination. You'll find parks to explore and some nice restaurants that make for a good date night.

Pittsburgh is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Columbia or Pittsburgh Better for Students?

Columbia
Pittsburgh

Columbia is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not popular with students.


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

Columbia
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

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 Columbia or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Columbia
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable place. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Columbia?

How long in Columbia or Pittsburgh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Columbia and Pittsburgh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pittsburgh than in Columbia. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Columbia, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pittsburgh.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Columbia or Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Columbia 1-2 
    Pittsburgh 2-3

One day in Columbia or Pittsburgh?

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.

The city of Pittsburgh offers food and shopping. 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.


A weekend in Columbia or Pittsburgh?

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.

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

Five days in Columbia or Pittsburgh?

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.

Pittsburgh 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.

A week in Columbia or Pittsburgh?

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.

Pittsburgh 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Columbia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Columbia is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Columbia and Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Columbia -
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Columbia $0.00
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Columbia and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Columbia or Pittsburgh? 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 Columbia


Hotels in Pittsburgh


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: Columbia Hotel Prices and Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Columbia -
    Pittsburgh $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97

Is it cheaper to fly into Columbia or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh and Columbia 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
    Columbia $5.03
    Pittsburgh $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Columbia -
    Pittsburgh $38

Tours and Activities in Columbia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Columbia are as follows:

  • Soda City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Columbia: $12

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Pittsburgh to Logstown Settler's History: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.32
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Sinister Shadows of Steel City Ghost Tour: $24
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh: $25
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Evening Ghost Tour: $28
  • Downtown History and Architecture Tour: $29
  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour: $30
  • Discover Oakland Tour: $30
  • Public Art Walking Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Columbia $88
    Pittsburgh $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $40
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Columbia and Pittsburgh, we can see that Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pittsburgh 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 Columbia Expensive? and Is Pittsburgh Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Columbia or Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Columbia. When comparing the sizes of Columbia and Pittsburgh, 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.