A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Columbia River Gorge for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Tulum or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Columbia River Gorge can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a ancient, archeological, and tropical town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Tulum and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Tulum has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tulum is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also home to the Tulum archeological ruins. Columbia River Gorge is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

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

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

Tulum 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 Tulum that are not to be missed. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Tulum and Columbia River Gorge.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Tulum makes for a great culinary experience. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Tulum 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 Tulum just to party. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

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

Tulum offers an unforgettable resort vacation. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or Columbia River Gorge Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Tulum specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Columbia River Gorge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Tulum are among the best in the world. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Both Tulum and Columbia River Gorge are destinations which offer high quality hiking.

Tulum is a popular spot for hiking. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge?

Tulum 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.

Tulum is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Columbia River Gorge are high quality to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Tulum is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its romantic activities.

Tulum has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Columbia River Gorge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

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

Both Tulum and Columbia River Gorge are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Many backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Tulum 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.

Tulum has a few public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

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

Is Tulum or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

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

Tulum is very walkable. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable town. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Tulum or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tulum and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tulum than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum 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 Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Tulum. 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.

In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this natural 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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge?

Tulum 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 town 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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Tulum for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful town of Tulum. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge?

The tropical destination of Tulum offers museums and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum 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 Tulum 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 Tulum or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tulum. In July, Tulum usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Tulum during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Tulum because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

In the autumn, Tulum is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tulum in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the autumn, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Also, the hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Columbia River Gorge. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Columbia River Gorge. In January, Tulum is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 23°C (74°F), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Columbia River Gorge receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Tulum usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the spring for the natural beauty.

Tulum is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the spring, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Tulum