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

Should you visit Columbus or Philadelphia?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Philadelphia? 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Columbus and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbus or Philadelphia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Columbus. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell. Columbus is famous for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Columbus or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for theatre. However, Columbus is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Columbus is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Philadelphia has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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.

Is Columbus or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for live music. However, Columbus is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Philadelphia while you're in town. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Columbus is not a live music destination.

Is Columbus or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

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

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Columbus does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Columbus does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Philadelphia is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Columbus does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Columbus or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Columbus does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Columbus does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Columbus or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Columbus or Philadelphia.

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.

Philadelphia is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Columbus or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Philadelphia is a popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Philadelphia is a nice destination for couples. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

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 Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

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 Philadelphia Better for Students?

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

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Columbus is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Philadelphia is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Philadelphia. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

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

One day in Columbus or Philadelphia?

In Columbus, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this down-to-earth city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Philadelphia is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Philadelphia?

Columbus is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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

Five days in Columbus or Philadelphia?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the down-to-earth destination of Columbus. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Philadelphia?

Columbus is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Columbus or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Columbus. When comparing the sizes of Columbus and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

Both Philadelphia and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Columbus is around the same temperature as Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Columbus in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. Columbus usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia during summer. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. It's quite rainy in Columbus. In July, Columbus usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Columbus or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

Both Philadelphia and Columbus during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Columbus in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Columbus is generally around the same temperature as Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 57°F (14°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Philadelphia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Philadelphia. Most visitors come to Columbus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. Columbus can be very cold during winter. Columbus is cooler than Philadelphia in the winter. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during winter. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Columbus usually receives around the same amount of rain as Philadelphia. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Columbus or Philadelphia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Philadelphia. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In the spring, Columbus is around the same temperature as Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Columbus in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. In the spring, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets more rain in April than Philadelphia. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Columbus