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

Should you visit Miami or Columbus?

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 Columbus can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a glamorous, exciting, and diverse beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Miami travel costs.

Columbus

Columbus is a welcoming, down-to-earth, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Columbus travel costs.

Miami and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Columbus?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Miami than Columbus. While Columbus is larger than Miami, Miami has more sights and attractions for tourists. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Columbus is known for its museums and attractions. Miami is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Miami different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Columbus is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Columbus is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami is a world-class destination for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

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 Miami or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

Miami is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

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 Miami or Columbus Better for Music?

Miami is a world-class destination for live music. However, Columbus is not a live music destination.

Miami is known as a music capital around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Columbus is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Columbus Better for Resorts?

Miami is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Miami is a great choice. 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.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Columbus Better for Beaches?

Miami is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Miami. 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.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Columbus?

Miami is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Miami. 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.

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.

Is Miami or Columbus Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Columbus.

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, Columbus is very family-friendly. 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 Miami or Columbus Better for Couples?

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

Miami makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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 Miami or Columbus Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Columbus is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there is a hostel in town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Miami or Columbus Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Columbus is not popular with students.

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

Miami is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

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.

Is Miami or Columbus a more walkable city?

Miami is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Miami?

How long in Miami or Columbus?

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

Families should spend more time in Miami than Columbus. 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 Columbus. 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 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 Miami.

One day in Miami or Columbus?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

In Columbus, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this down-to-earth destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Miami or Columbus?

Miami is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbus. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Columbus?

Miami 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.

Columbus is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Columbus. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Miami or Columbus?

Miami is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach city offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the welcoming destination of Columbus. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Miami and Columbus, we can see that Miami 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 Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami 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 Miami Expensive? and Is Columbus Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Miami or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or Columbus in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Miami as well as Columbus. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Columbus because of the family-friendly experiences.

Miami is a little warmer than Columbus in the summer. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Columbus fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the summer, Miami often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbus. Miami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Miami usually gets more rain in July than Columbus. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Columbus in the Autumn?

Both Columbus and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Miami because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

In the autumn, Miami is much warmer than Columbus. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Miami in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Columbus averages at about 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during autumn. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Miami. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Columbus. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Miami or Columbus in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Columbus. In January, Miami is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 67°F (20°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. In the winter, Miami often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Columbus. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Columbus in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Columbus. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Miami is much warmer than Columbus in the spring. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Columbus fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Miami usually receives around the same amount of rain as Columbus. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbus and Miami