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

Should you visit Memphis or Columbia River Gorge?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Columbia River Gorge, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Memphis

Memphis is a soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

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 shopping, nightlife, and food.

Memphis and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Memphis than Columbia River Gorge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Memphis is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

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

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

Memphis 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.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

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 Memphis or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Memphis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Is Memphis or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Memphis is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for nightlife and partying.

Memphis offers plenty to do in the evening. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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 Memphis or Columbia River Gorge Better for Music?

Memphis is a world-class destination for live music. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.

Memphis is a world class music destination. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.

Is Memphis or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known 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.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Columbia River Gorge. 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.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Memphis or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Columbia River Gorge is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Memphis is not known 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.

Memphis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Memphis or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Memphis is a nice place to visit for students. However, Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Memphis and Columbia River Gorge both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

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

Is Memphis or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Memphis is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

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 Memphis Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Memphis or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Memphis 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 Memphis. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Memphis. 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 Memphis. 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 Memphis 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 Memphis or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Memphis. 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.

In Columbia River Gorge, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Memphis or Columbia River Gorge?

Memphis 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.

In Columbia River Gorge, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbia River Gorge has to offer.

Five days in Memphis or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Memphis for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Memphis. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Columbia River Gorge is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Memphis or Columbia River Gorge?

The soulful destination of Memphis offers nightlife and live music. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbia River Gorge. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Memphis or Columbia River Gorge?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Memphis 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 Memphis 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 Memphis or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Memphis during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Memphis because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

In the summer, Memphis is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Memphis in July average around 83°F (29°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Memphis. In the summer, Memphis often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Columbia River Gorge. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Memphis is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during autumn. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Memphis usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Memphis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Columbia River Gorge can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Memphis. Memphis is around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbia River Gorge. Memphis usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Memphis in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Memphis is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Memphis in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during spring. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Memphis. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 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 Memphis