A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Durham vs. Columbia River Gorge for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Durham and Columbia River Gorge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a student-filled, sports oriented, and diverse city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful, scenic, and natural region. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Durham and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge than Durham, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Columbia River Gorge is better known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Durham is more popular for its museums. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Durham and is known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Also, Columbia River Gorge is famous for Vista House at Crown Point. Durham is well known for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Columbia River Gorge and Durham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

Durham is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Durham can be an interesting and educational experience. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Is the Food Better in Durham or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Columbia River Gorge is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Durham. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

Is Durham or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Both Durham and Columbia River Gorge are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Durham or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Durham is not a hiking destination.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular spot for hiking. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

Both Durham and Columbia River Gorge are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Durham to go shopping. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbia River Gorge. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Durham or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Columbia River Gorge is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Durham or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Durham or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.

Is Durham or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Durham is a well-known place for students. However, Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

Durham is a great city to visit as a student. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

Is Durham or Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Durham and Columbia River Gorge offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

Is Durham or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Durham is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Durham is generally not very walkable. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable city. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Durham Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Durham?

How long in Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Durham and Columbia River Gorge. In our opinion, Columbia River Gorge has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Columbia River Gorge than Durham. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Durham, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Durham 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 Columbia River Gorge.

One day in Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Durham. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Durham has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

Durham is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Columbia River Gorge is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Durham for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Durham. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbia River Gorge. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

The sports oriented destination of Durham offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Columbia River Gorge. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Durham and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Columbia River Gorge 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 Durham Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

Durham has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Durham and Columbia River Gorge, 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 Durham or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Durham or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Durham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Durham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Durham is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Durham in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Durham gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Durham. In July, Durham usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Durham gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Durham or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Durham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Durham for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Durham is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 61°F (16°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Durham. In the autumn, Durham often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Durham gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Columbia River Gorge. Durham gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Durham or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

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

Columbia River Gorge can be very cold during winter. Durham can get quite cold in the winter. Durham is around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Durham averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Durham usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Durham gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Columbia River Gorge receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Durham usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Durham gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Durham or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Durham as well as Columbia River Gorge. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Durham is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Durham in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Durham this time of the year. In the spring, Durham often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Durham gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Durham gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Durham