A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Columbia for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Key West or Columbia?

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

Should I visit Key West or Columbia? 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.

Key West

Key West is a quirky, eclectic, and bustling town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Columbia

Columbia is a friendly, welcoming, and suburban city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Key West and Columbia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Columbia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Key West than Columbia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Key West is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Columbia is more popular for its museums and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Columbia and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Also, Key West is famous for Duval Street. Columbia is well known for its southern hospitality and friendly people.

How is Key West different from Columbia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Columbia?

Columbia is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Columbia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the state capital, there are some decent museums around town like the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Military Museum, the South Carolina State Museum, and the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Columbia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Columbia is not a good city for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Columbia may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Barbecue and other southern favorites are among the more local dishes, but the city is also filled with fast food joints and other major chain restaurants.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Key West offers plenty to do in the evening. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia. You'll find live music venues as well as low key bars and more trendy cocktail lounges.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for Resorts?

Key West is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Columbia is not a resort destination.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Columbia is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Columbia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Columbia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for Beaches?

Key West is a well-known place for the beache. However, Columbia is not a beach destination.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Columbia is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a well-known place for its old town. However, Columbia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Columbia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Columbia?

Columbia is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Columbia offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find independent and locally owned shops along Devine Street and in the Five Points area. Also interesting are the Vista, which is a warehouse district, and Trenholm Plaza.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for Families?

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

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Columbia is a family-friendly town. Around town you'll find parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. There's a zoo in the area as well as a nice state park - Sesquicentennial State Park. There's also EdVenture Children's Museum, which is filled with hands-on exhibits.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for Couples?

Key West is a well-known place for its romantic activities. However, Columbia is not a good city for couples.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Columbia is not always the best place to visit for a couple. You'll find parks to explore and some nice restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for Students?

Key West is a well-known place for students. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Plenty of students visit Columbia. The University of South Carolina, and other nearby colleges all bring in a decent student population.

Is Key West or Columbia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Columbia is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbia. The COMET is the bus system through town, but you really must have your own car to enjoy the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Columbia a more walkable city?

Key West is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Columbia is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Columbia is not a very walkable town. It's filled with suburban-style development and is generally very car dependent.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia or Key West?

How long in Key West or Columbia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or Columbia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West than Columbia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West than Columbia 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Columbia?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The city of Columbia offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Columbia?

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Key West or Columbia?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Columbia 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 Key West or Columbia?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Columbia is a great place to explore. 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 Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Columbia?

Columbia has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Columbia, 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 Key West or Columbia?

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 Key West or Columbia in the Summer?

Both Columbia and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbia this time of year.

Key West is around the same temperature as Columbia in the summer. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Columbia fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Columbia during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Columbia. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Columbia in the Autumn?

Both Columbia and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Columbia for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Key West is a little warmer than Columbia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key West in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Columbia averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In Columbia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Columbia. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia receives 230 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Columbia. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Key West or Columbia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Columbia. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Columbia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Key West is generally much warmer than Columbia. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbia fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Columbia during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Columbia. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 3.7 inches (93 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Columbia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Columbia. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Key West is a little warmer than Columbia in the spring. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Columbia fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Columbia. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia receives 273 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Columbia. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Columbia and Key West