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

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Columbus?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Columbus? 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Columbus

Columbus is a down-to-earth, authentic, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

West Palm Beach and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Columbus?

Visitors will generally find more to do in West Palm Beach than Columbus. While Columbus is larger than West Palm Beach, West Palm Beach has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. West Palm Beach is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Columbus is known for its museums and shopping. West Palm Beach is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. It is also home to Rosemary Square. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is West Palm Beach different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Columbus is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Columbus? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both West Palm Beach and Columbus offer decent local cuisine and restaurants.

West Palm Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

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 West Palm Beach or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

West Palm Beach has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 West Palm Beach or Columbus Better for Resorts?

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, West Palm Beach is a great choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbus Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbus Better for Beaches?

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

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Columbus?

Columbus is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbus. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbus Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either West Palm Beach or Columbus.

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.

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

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

West Palm Beach makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

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

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

West Palm Beach has some 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 generally limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Is West Palm Beach or Columbus a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach and Columbus are good when it comes to 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.

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 West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in West Palm Beach or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in West Palm Beach than Columbus because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbus.

Families should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Columbus. 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 Columbus. 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 Columbus 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 Columbus.

One day in West Palm Beach or Columbus?

The beach area of West Palm Beach offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. 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.

The authentic destination of Columbus offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Columbus?

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The city of Columbus offers museums and nightlife. 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 Columbus?

West Palm Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in West Palm Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Columbus is a great place to explore. This city 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 Columbus?

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that West Palm Beach has to offer. This beach area offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Columbus. 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 Columbus, we can see that West Palm Beach 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 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 Columbus.

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 Columbus Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Columbus?

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 West Palm Beach or Columbus in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Columbus. The summer months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Columbus in the summer. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Columbus fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbus this time of the year. In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun in the summer.

Columbus receives a lot of rain in the summer. West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Columbus. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Columbus in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Columbus. Also, many travelers come to Columbus for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Columbus. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Columbus averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Columbus. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Columbus. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Columbus in the Winter?

Both Columbus and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Columbus in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Columbus can get quite cold in the winter. In January, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Columbus. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Columbus in the Spring?

Both Columbus and West Palm Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the spring for the beaches.

West Palm Beach is much warmer than Columbus in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Columbus fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the spring, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Columbus. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than Columbus. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Typical Weather for Columbus and West Palm Beach