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

Should you visit Miami 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 Miami and Columbia River Gorge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a scenic, natural, and beautiful region. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Miami and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Miami and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Miami has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Columbia River Gorge is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. Columbia River Gorge is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

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

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

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a region with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Columbia River Gorge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Miami is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Miami is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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

Is Miami or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Miami is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Miami just to party. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami or Columbia River Gorge Better for Music?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

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

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Miami is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Miami is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Miami or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Miami is not a hiking destination.

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.

Miami is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Columbia River Gorge?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Miami is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Miami or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Columbia River Gorge.

Miami is a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Columbia River Gorge is very family-friendly. 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 Miami or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Both Miami and Columbia River Gorge are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

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


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

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for backpackers. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Miami or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

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

Miami is a good beach city to visit for students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Miami is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

Miami has a few public transit options. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

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


Is Miami or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Miami
Columbia River Gorge

Miami is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable beach 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 Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Miami or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Miami and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than in Miami. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Miami or Columbia River Gorge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Columbia River Gorge 2-3

One day in Miami or Columbia River Gorge?

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Most people come for the beaches. 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, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Columbia River Gorge?

Miami is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbia River Gorge. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Miami or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Miami for five days. You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beach city of Miami. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Columbia River Gorge is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Columbia River Gorge. 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.

A week in Miami or Columbia River Gorge?

The glamorous big city of Miami offers nightlife and live music. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 nightlife and food around the beautiful destination of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Columbia River Gorge or Miami?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $206, while the average daily cost in Columbia River Gorge is $179. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Miami and Columbia River Gorge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Columbia River Gorge $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Columbia River Gorge $178
Compare Hotels in Miami and Columbia River Gorge

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Columbia River Gorge? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Miami


Hotels in Columbia River Gorge


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Miami Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Columbia River Gorge $78
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • Train Transfer to South Florida Cities: $20
  • Miami International Airport: One-Way Transfer to Miami: $24
  • Transfers Airports Miami, Ft. Lauderdale Port Mía Everglades: $25
  • 50 min Everglades Airboat, Photo & Transfer: $33
  • Private Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel or Port of Miami: $35
  • Miami or Ft Lauderdale: Train Transfer to Orlando Airport: $39
  • From Everglades Wildlife Show, Airboat & Bus Transfer: $40
  • Miami Int'l Airport: Private 1-Way Transfer to Miami Port: $48
  • From Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show & Bus Transfer: $55
  • Private One Way Transfer: Miami Airport (MIA) to/from Miami: $55
  • Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Experience with roundtrip transfer: $59
  • Key West Transfer with Hotel Pickup and Upgrades: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Columbia River Gorge?

Prices for flights to both Columbia River Gorge and Miami change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Miami $41
    Columbia River Gorge $46
Typical Food Prices in Miami

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Miami:


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Miami.

  • Little Havana- Family Friendly Walking Food Tour : $52
  • Little Havana Ultimate Food Tour : $64
  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $64
  • A Taste of South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Taste of Little Havana Food Tour in Miami with Cuban Street Food: $75
  • Food Tour of Miami's South Beach: $79
  • Mango's Dinner and Show Ticket: $98
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100
  • Guided Small Group Little Havana Food Tour: $124
  • 3 Hour Regional Indian Cooking Class and Dining Experience in Miami: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    Columbia River Gorge $20

Tours and Activities in Miami

Here are a few actual costs in Miami for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Haunted a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour : $5.97
  • Little Havana Smartphone guided Audio App Solo Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Miami Marlins Baseball Game Ticket at loandepot Park: $7.19
  • Haunted Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $7.31
  • Miami Beach: Self-Guided Walking Tour With Audio Guide: $7.31
  • Sights of Downtown a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Private Sightseeing Audio Walking Tour in Miami Beach: $7.99
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Miami: $8.72
  • Miami Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Big Cypress National Preserve Audio Tour Guide: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Little Havana: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Miami by Wacky Walks: $10

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Columbia River Gorge $12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group Brewery Golf Cart Tour of Wynwood with a Local Guide: $59
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100


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


Which is Bigger, Miami or Columbia River Gorge?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Columbia River Gorge. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Miami is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the summer. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge during summer. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Miami usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 68°F (20°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Miami as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, 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 the autumn, Miami is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Miami in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the autumn, Miami often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Miami receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 55°F (13°C)

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Miami in the winter for 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. In January, Miami is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 67°F (20°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. In January, Miami usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 40°F (4°C)

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Miami during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the natural beauty.

Miami is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the spring, Miami often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Miami 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Miami

Miami Columbia River Gorge
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)