A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Columbus for Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus? 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Columbus

Columbus is a down-to-earth, authentic, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbus are both popular with visitors, Cumberland Island National Seashore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Columbus is known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. It is also home to the Dungeness Ruins. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

Columbus is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbus is adequate for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

Columbus is a popular place for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Columbus has a few options to choose from. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Columbus is not a hiking destination.

People visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

Columbus is a popular place for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus Better for Families?

Columbus is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbus both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbus are good when it comes to walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is somewhat walkable. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Columbus because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbus.

Families should spend more time in Columbus than Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

The beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Columbus, you'll find nightlife and shopping. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Columbus for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

Cumberland Island National Seashore 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.

Columbus is a popular place to visit. The welcoming city of Columbus offers museums and nightlife. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 island offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Columbus. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbus, 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Columbus Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus?

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbus. The summer months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Columbus in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Columbus fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbus this time of the year. In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun in the summer.

Columbus receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Columbus. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Columbus. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbus for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Columbus. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbus averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in October than Columbus. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus in the Winter?

Both Columbus and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Columbus in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Columbus can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Columbus. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbus in the Spring?

Both Columbus and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Columbus in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Columbus fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in April than Columbus. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbus and Cumberland Island National Seashore