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

Should you visit Orlando or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Columbia River Gorge? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Orlando and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, resorts, and shopping, while Columbia River Gorge is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Columbia River Gorge is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

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

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

Columbia River Gorge is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Columbia River Gorge Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a theatre destination.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Columbia River Gorge is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Orlando and Columbia River Gorge.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Is Orlando or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Orlando and Columbia River Gorge.

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Orlando or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

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

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is great for hiking. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Columbia River Gorge?

Orlando is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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 Orlando or Columbia River Gorge Better for Christmas?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Columbia River Gorge does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando is a world class destination during the Christmas season. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Columbia River Gorge does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

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

Columbia River Gorge is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Columbia River Gorge is very popular with the backpacker crowd. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

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

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Orlando and Columbia River Gorge both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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

Is Orlando or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Neither Orlando or Columbia River Gorge are walkable places.

Orlando is not a very walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

Columbia River Gorge is not a 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 Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Orlando or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando or Columbia River Gorge?

Orlando 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 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 Orlando or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Orlando for five days. You'll find theater and nightlife around the city of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando or Columbia River Gorge?

The active destination of Orlando offers nightlife and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Columbia River Gorge?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Orlando during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Orlando is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the summer. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Orlando is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Columbia River Gorge. Most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Columbia River Gorge can be very cold. In January, Orlando is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite rainy in Columbia River Gorge. Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

Orlando is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 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 Orlando