A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Columbia River Gorge for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a quirky, eccentric, and one-of-a-kind coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. 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.

San Francisco and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Columbia River Gorge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Francisco is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge. Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

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

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

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in San Francisco that are not to be missed. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

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 San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge Better for Theater?

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

San Francisco offers a number of shows and performances. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Columbia River Gorge is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco 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, San Francisco is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both San Francisco and Columbia River Gorge.

If you're looking for night time activities San Francisco has a few options to choose from. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

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 San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge Better for Music?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep San Francisco active and fun. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Francisco. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

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

Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge?

San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

San Francisco and Columbia River Gorge are both superb to visit as a couple.

San Francisco is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

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

For backpackers, both San Francisco and Columbia River Gorge are superb places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

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.

Is San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

San Francisco is a well-known place for students. However, Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

San Francisco is a great coastal city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in San Francisco can get you around easily. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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

Is San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

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

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable coastal 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 San Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco 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 San Francisco.

One day in San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge?

San Francisco is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the natural destination of Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge?

San Francisco is a fun place to experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbia River Gorge. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit San Francisco for five days. San Francisco is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge?

San Francisco is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, one week is sufficent for most.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and San Francisco during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the hiking, 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, San Francisco is cooler than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Francisco in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°C).

San Francisco usually gets less rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. San Francisco gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Francisco and Columbia River Gorge. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Francisco 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, San Francisco is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 63°F (17°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In October, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. San Francisco gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to San Francisco as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, 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. San Francisco is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite rainy in Columbia River Gorge. San Francisco usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. San Francisco gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Francisco or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

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

In the spring, San Francisco is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Francisco in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In April, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. San Francisco gets 1.2 inches (31 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 San Francisco