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

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. It's also known for nightlife, 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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

West Palm Beach and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although West Palm Beach and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Columbia River Gorge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Columbia River Gorge is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also home to Vista House at Crown Point.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is adequate for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for nightlife and partying.

West Palm Beach offers plenty to do in the evening. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

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 West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

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

West Palm Beach offers an unforgettable resort vacation. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to West Palm Beach to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Columbia River Gorge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in West Palm Beach are among the best in the world. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for hiking. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge.

West Palm Beach is a very family-friendly destination. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Columbia River Gorge is a very kid-friendly beach area. 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 West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Columbia River Gorge make for a very good place to visit.

West Palm Beach is a great beach area if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

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 West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach has a few public transit options. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

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

Is West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

West Palm Beach is somewhat walkable. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of West Palm Beach. 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.

The scenic destination of Columbia River Gorge offers food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

West Palm Beach 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 area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The region of Columbia River Gorge offers shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit West Palm Beach for five days. Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beach area of West Palm Beach. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer.

Columbia River Gorge is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This region offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the diverse destination of West Palm Beach. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in West Palm Beach, one week is sufficent for most.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and West Palm Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the summer, West Palm Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Columbia River Gorge. Also, 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, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during autumn. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Columbia River Gorge. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine during these months. Also, 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, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the winter, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbia River Gorge. West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

Both Columbia River Gorge and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

West Palm Beach is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during spring. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and West Palm Beach