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

Should you visit Columbus or Lewisburg?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Lewisburg? 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.

Columbus

Columbus is a welcoming, down-to-earth, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a quaint, charming, and historical town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums.

Columbus and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Columbus or Lewisburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lewisburg. Although Columbus and Lewisburg are both popular with visitors, Lewisburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lewisburg is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm, while Columbus is known for its nightlife. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene. Lewisburg is popular for its historical charm and friendly personality. It is also home to Bucknell University.

How is Columbus different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Columbus
Lewisburg

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Columbus or Lewisburg.

Columbus is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

Columbus
Lewisburg

Foodies will find both Columbus and Lewisburg both to be decent destinations.

Columbus offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Columbus or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Columbus
Lewisburg

Columbus is a popular place for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Columbus or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Columbus
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Columbus does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg is a good destination for visiting its old town. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Columbus does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Lewisburg?

Columbus
Lewisburg

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Columbus and Lewisburg.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbus. 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.

Lewisburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Columbus or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Columbus
Lewisburg

Columbus is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Columbus or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Columbus
Lewisburg

Neither Columbus or Lewisburg is generally regarded as a top spot for a couple to visit.

Columbus is not the best destination for a couple to visit. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Columbus or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Columbus
Lewisburg

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

Plenty of students visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Columbus is not popular with students.

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

Columbus
Lewisburg

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Columbus and Lewisburg.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Is Columbus or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Columbus
Lewisburg

Columbus and Lewisburg are good when it comes to walkability.

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.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.


For even more information, also check out Is Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is Lewisburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Columbus or Lewisburg to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Columbus or Lewisburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Columbus. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbus has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The town of Lewisburg offers museums and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Columbus or Lewisburg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Columbus. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.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.

Lewisburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lewisburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Columbus or Lewisburg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly city of Columbus. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lewisburg 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 Columbus or Lewisburg?

Columbus is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Lewisburg 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 town offers something for everyone.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Columbus?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Columbus is $158, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $136. 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 Columbus and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Columbus $72
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Columbus $144
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Columbus and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Columbus or Lewisburg? 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 Columbus


Hotels in Lewisburg


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: Columbus Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Columbus $50
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Columbus

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

  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $130
  • Columbus Ohio (CMH) Airport Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: $180
  • Columbus to Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) - Departure Private Transfer: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Columbus or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Columbus 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
    Columbus $49
    Lewisburg $34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Columbus $46
    Lewisburg $18

Tours and Activities in Columbus

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Columbus by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Columbus with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Columbus Scavenger Hunt Adventure : $21
  • Columbus Blue Jackets Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Nationwide Arena: $24
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Ticket: $28
  • The Escape Game Epic 60-Minute Adventures: $41
  • 1-Hour Themed Escape Room Adventure & Narrative: $41
  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Trolley Pub Holiday Lights Tour in Columbus: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Columbus $20
    Lewisburg $12


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


Which is Bigger, Columbus or Lewisburg?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Columbus and Lewisburg, 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 Columbus or Lewisburg?

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 Columbus or Lewisburg in the Summer?

Both Lewisburg and Columbus during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Columbus because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

Columbus is around the same temperature as Lewisburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In Lewisburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Columbus. In the summer, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Lewisburg. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun.

Lewisburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbus. Columbus usually gets more rain in July than Lewisburg. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Columbus 77°F (25°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Lewisburg. The shopping scene are the main draw to Columbus this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Columbus is a little warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Columbus in October average around 57°F (14°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Lewisburg during autumn. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Columbus usually receives less rain than Lewisburg. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Columbus 57°F (14°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Lewisburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Lewisburg. Many travelers come to Columbus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lewisburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lewisburg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Columbus. In January, Columbus is generally much warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 30°F (-1°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In the winter, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Lewisburg. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets less rain in January than Lewisburg. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Columbus 30°F (-1°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Lewisburg in the Spring?

Both Lewisburg and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm during these months.

Columbus is a little warmer than Lewisburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Lewisburg during spring. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Columbus usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lewisburg. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Columbus 54°F (12°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Columbus

Columbus Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 69°F (20°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)