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

Should you visit Columbus or Newport?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Newport? 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 friendly, welcoming, and down-to-earth city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Newport

Newport is a seaside, historical, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Columbus and Newport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbus or Newport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newport than Columbus, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newport is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Also, Newport is famous for Thames Street. Columbus is well known for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newport 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 Newport?

Newport is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Columbus offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

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

Newport is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Newport. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbus. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

Is Columbus or Newport Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Columbus and Newport.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbus. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Columbus or Newport Better for Beaches?

Newport is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is Columbus or Newport Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Columbus does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Newport?

Newport is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Columbus offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Is Columbus or Newport Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Columbus or Newport.

Columbus is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Newport is a very kid-friendly city. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Columbus or Newport Better for Couples?

Newport is a world-class destination for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Newport has some public transit options. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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.

Is Columbus or Newport a more walkable city?

Newport is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable place. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Newport or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Newport?

In either Columbus or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Columbus because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Columbus, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

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

One day in Columbus or Newport?

In Columbus, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The town of Newport offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Newport?

In Columbus, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbus has to offer.

Newport 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newport, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Columbus or Newport?

Columbus is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newport, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Columbus or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbus. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Columbus. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Columbus or Newport?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Columbus and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Columbus or Newport in the Summer?

Both Newport and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbus this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Columbus is generally around the same temperature as Newport. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 77°F (25°C), and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Newport during summer. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Columbus. In July, Columbus usually receives more rain than Newport. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Columbus or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Columbus during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Columbus for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Columbus is a little warmer than Newport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Newport. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets less rain in October than Newport. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Newport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Newport. Many visitors come to Columbus in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newport can be very cold during winter. Columbus can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Columbus is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Columbus in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Newport averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Newport during winter. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Columbus usually receives less rain than Newport. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Columbus or Newport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Newport. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Columbus is generally a little warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 54°F (12°C), and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. In the spring, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Newport. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Newport and Columbus