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

Should you visit Columbus or Seattle?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Seattle? 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. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back 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 live music, food, and beaches.

Columbus and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbus or Seattle?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Seattle than Columbus. While Columbus is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. Columbus is well known for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seattle 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.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

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 Seattle Better for Theater?

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

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Columbus is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle 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 Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place 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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

Seattle has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle 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 Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Columbus is not a live music destination.

Is Columbus or Seattle Better for Beaches?

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

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is Columbus or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle 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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Seattle?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Columbus and Seattle.

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.

Seattle offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Columbus or Seattle Better for Families?

Columbus is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Columbus is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Columbus or Seattle Better for Couples?

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

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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 Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

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 Seattle Better for Students?

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

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Columbus is not popular with students.

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

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

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and 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 Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle 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.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Seattle?

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

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

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

One day in Columbus or Seattle?

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.

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

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.

Seattle 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Columbus or Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Columbus or Seattle?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Columbus and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Columbus is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 77°F (25°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbus this time of the year. In the summer, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Columbus receives a lot of rain in the summer. Columbus usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Columbus in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Columbus is a little warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Columbus usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Columbus usually receives less rain than Seattle. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Columbus or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Columbus during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Columbus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Columbus can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Columbus is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Columbus in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Columbus often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

Seattle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Columbus usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Seattle. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In April, Columbus is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 54°F (12°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. Columbus usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle during spring. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Columbus usually receives more rain than Seattle. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Columbus