A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Columbia River Gorge for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Columbia River Gorge can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a natural, relaxing, and secluded island. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and museums.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful, scenic, and natural region. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Jekyll Island and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Columbia River Gorge is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island is more popular for its museums, resorts, and beaches. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Also, Columbia River Gorge is famous for Vista House at Crown Point. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Jekyll Island is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

Jekyll Island is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

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 Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Columbia River Gorge has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is a region with good options for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island is a moderate island for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Jekyll Island. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Both Jekyll Island and Columbia River Gorge are destinations which offer high quality hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is a region with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Columbia River Gorge has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Both Jekyll Island and Columbia River Gorge are high quality to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jekyll Island. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Columbia River Gorge is 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.

Is Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Columbia River Gorge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Neither Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge are walkable places.

Jekyll Island is not a very walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jekyll Island and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Jekyll Island than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

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

Couples should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Jekyll Island. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

Jekyll Island is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Jekyll Island for five days. You'll find museums around the island of Jekyll Island. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the natural destination of Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

The relaxing destination of Jekyll Island offers museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Columbia River Gorge. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jekyll Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°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 Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the summer, Jekyll Island often gets less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

In October, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during autumn. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Jekyll Island during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Columbia River Gorge. Jekyll Island is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun.

Columbia River Gorge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Jekyll Island is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jekyll Island in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during spring. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Jekyll Island