A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Columbus vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? 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 authentic, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a overlooked, underrated, and vast park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Columbus and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbus have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Columbus is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is popular for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Columbus different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbus is a city with good options for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Foodies will find both Columbus and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbus is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Columbus. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbus is a city with good options for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Columbus is a great destination for shopping. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbus is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly city. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.


Is Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Columbus is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there is a hostel in town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbus is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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 quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

Is Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Columbus
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbus is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Families should spend more time in Columbus than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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.


  • How many days in Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Columbus 1-2 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Columbus, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beautiful park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Columbus, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. In Columbus, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this friendly destination offers. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Columbus. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Columbus is a popular choice for travelers. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $126. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Columbus $72
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Columbus $144
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Columbus and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

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 to Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Columbus Ohio (CMH) Airport Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Columbus $46
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

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
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Ticket: $28
  • 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Columbus Expensive? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors come to Columbus in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Columbus is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbus this time of the year. In the summer, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 436 hours of full sun.

Columbus receives a lot of rain in the summer. Columbus usually gets more rain in July than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Columbus 77°F (25°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Columbus for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Columbus is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Columbus in October average around 57°F (14°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 66°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during autumn. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 284 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Columbus usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Columbus 57°F (14°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Winter?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbus during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Columbus because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

The weather in Columbus can be very cold. In January, Columbus is generally much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 30°F (-1°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

In the winter, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 162 hours of full sun.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Columbus usually gets less rain in January than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Columbus 30°F (-1°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Also, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the natural beauty.

Columbus is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of the year. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during spring. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 329 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Columbus usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Columbus 54°F (12°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbus

Columbus Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 69°F (20°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)


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