A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Columbus for Nightlife, Families, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Atlantic City or Columbus?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Atlantic City and Columbus. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a flashy, party-oriented, and colorful city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Columbus

Columbus is a welcoming, down-to-earth, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Columbus travel costs.

Atlantic City and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Columbus?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlantic City. Although Atlantic City and Columbus are both popular with visitors, Atlantic City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Atlantic City is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Columbus is known for its museums and attractions. Atlantic City is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality It is also home to Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Atlantic City different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Columbus and Atlantic City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlantic City or Columbus?

Columbus is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Is the Food Better in Atlantic City or Columbus? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Atlantic City. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

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 Atlantic City or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Atlantic City just to party. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

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 Atlantic City or Columbus Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus is not a resort destination.

Atlantic City is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Atlantic City or Columbus Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City is a popular place for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Columbus?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Columbus and Atlantic City.

Atlantic City is a great destination for shopping. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Atlantic City or Columbus Better for Families?

Columbus is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Columbus is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or Columbus Better for Couples?

Atlantic City is a popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Atlantic City is a nice destination for couples. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

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 Atlantic City or Columbus Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Columbus is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there is a hostel in town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Atlantic City or Columbus Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Atlantic City has some public transit options. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

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 Atlantic City or Columbus a more walkable city?

Atlantic City is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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 Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Columbus?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Columbus 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 Atlantic City.

One day in Atlantic City or Columbus?

The city of Atlantic City offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the friendly destination of Columbus. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Columbus?

Atlantic City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlantic City, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbus. 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 Atlantic City or Columbus?

Atlantic City is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Columbus. This city 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 Atlantic City or Columbus?

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Columbus. 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 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 comparing the travel costs between Atlantic City and Columbus, we can see that Columbus is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Atlantic City Expensive? and Is Columbus Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City or Columbus?

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 Atlantic City or Columbus in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Columbus. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences.

Atlantic City is around the same temperature as Columbus in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 75°F (24°C) in July, and Columbus fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlantic City this time of the year. In the summer, Atlantic City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbus. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbus. Atlantic City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atlantic City usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Columbus. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Columbus in the Autumn?

Both Columbus and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Columbus in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Atlantic City is around the same temperature as Columbus. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlantic City in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Columbus averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during autumn. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Columbus. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Columbus in the Winter?

Both Columbus and Atlantic City during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Columbus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Columbus can be very cold during winter. Atlantic City can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Atlantic City is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 31°F (-0°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Atlantic City often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in January than Columbus. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Columbus in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Columbus. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the beaches during these months.

Atlantic City is cooler than Columbus in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 51°F (10°C) in April, and Columbus fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Atlantic City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during spring. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Columbus. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbus and Atlantic City