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

Should you visit Key West or Columbus?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a active, lively, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Columbus

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

Key West and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Columbus?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Columbus are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Columbus attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Columbus and is popular 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. It is also well known for Duval Street. Columbus is famous for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Key West different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

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 Key West or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

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

Key West has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 Key West or Columbus Better for Resorts?

Key West is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

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

Key West is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Columbus Better for Beaches?

Key West is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Columbus Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Columbus?

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

Columbus offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

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 Columbus Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Columbus.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Columbus. 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.

Is Key West or Columbus Better for Couples?

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

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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 Key West or Columbus Better for Students?

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

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.

Columbus is not popular with students.

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

Columbus 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 Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

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

Is Key West or Columbus a more walkable city?

Key West and Columbus both are nice when exploring on foot.

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.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Key West?

How long in Key West or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West than Columbus 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 Columbus.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Columbus. 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 Columbus. 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 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Columbus?

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 Columbus 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 Columbus?

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.

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

Five days in Key West or Columbus?

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.

Columbus 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 Columbus?

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.

Columbus 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 Columbus, we can see that Key West 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 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 Columbus.

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 Columbus Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Columbus, 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 Columbus?

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 Key West or Columbus in the Summer?

Both Columbus and Key West during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

In July, Key West is generally a little warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Columbus, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the summer, Key West often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun.

Columbus gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Key West usually gets less rain in July than Columbus. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Columbus in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Columbus. 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 Columbus for the shopping scene.

Key West is much warmer than Columbus in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Columbus fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Key West gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Columbus. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Key West or Columbus in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key West as well as Columbus. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, 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 the winter, Key West is much warmer than Columbus. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbus averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Columbus. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Columbus in the Spring?

Both Columbus and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Columbus. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Columbus and Key West