A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Blue Ridge vs. Columbus for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a quaint, charming, and outdoorsy town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Blue Ridge is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Blue Ridge travel costs.

Columbus

Columbus is a friendly, welcoming, and down-to-earth city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Columbus travel costs.

Blue Ridge and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Blue Ridge or Columbus?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Blue Ridge. Although Blue Ridge and Columbus are both popular with visitors, Blue Ridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Blue Ridge is more popular for its food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Columbus is known for its museums and attractions. Blue Ridge is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Chattahoochee National Forest. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Blue Ridge different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Blue Ridge or Columbus?

Columbus is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its 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.

Blue Ridge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

Is the Food Better in Blue Ridge or Columbus? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Blue Ridge is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

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 Blue Ridge or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Blue Ridge and Columbus.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Blue Ridge. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

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 Blue Ridge or Columbus Better for Hiking?

Blue Ridge is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Blue Ridge. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Columbus?

Blue Ridge is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Blue Ridge. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Columbus offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Blue Ridge or Columbus More Beautiful?

Blue Ridge is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Blue Ridge is a gorgeous place to visit. There are plenty of hikes to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. There's also a scenic railroad as well as places to kayak or go horseback riding.

Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Blue Ridge or Columbus Better for Families?

Both Blue Ridge and Columbus are superb family-friendly destinations.

Blue Ridge is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Columbus is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Blue Ridge or Columbus Better for Couples?

Blue Ridge is a very popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Blue Ridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

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 Blue Ridge or Columbus Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Blue Ridge is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

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

Columbus is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is Blue Ridge or Columbus a more walkable city?

Blue Ridge and Columbus are good when it comes to walkability.

Blue Ridge is somewhat walkable. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

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 Blue Ridge Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Blue Ridge?

How long in Blue Ridge or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Blue Ridge or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Blue Ridge than Columbus because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Blue Ridge, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbus.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge.

One day in Blue Ridge or Columbus?

Blue Ridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the welcoming city of Columbus, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Columbus, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Blue Ridge or Columbus?

Blue Ridge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Blue Ridge, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Columbus, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Blue Ridge or Columbus?

Blue Ridge is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Blue Ridge, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Columbus, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Blue Ridge or Columbus?

Blue Ridge is a great place to explore. 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. This town offers something for everyone.

Columbus is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Blue Ridge or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 620 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge or Columbus in the Summer?

Both Columbus and Blue Ridge are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences.

Blue Ridge is around the same temperature as Columbus in the summer. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Columbus fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbus. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Columbus during summer. Blue Ridge gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbus. It's quite rainy in Blue Ridge. In July, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Columbus. Blue Ridge gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Columbus in the Autumn?

Both Columbus and Blue Ridge during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Columbus in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Blue Ridge is a little warmer than Columbus. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Blue Ridge in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Columbus averages at about 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Blue Ridge. In the autumn, Blue Ridge often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Blue Ridge gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun.

Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in October than Columbus. Blue Ridge gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Columbus in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Blue Ridge and Columbus. Many visitors come to Blue Ridge 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. Blue Ridge can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Blue Ridge is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 40°F (5°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Blue Ridge usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during winter. Blue Ridge gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

Blue Ridge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Columbus. Blue Ridge gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Columbus in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Blue Ridge as well as Columbus. Most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Blue Ridge is a little warmer than Columbus in the spring. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Columbus fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Blue Ridge this time of the year. In the spring, Blue Ridge often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Blue Ridge gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun.

Blue Ridge receives a lot of rain in the spring. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in April than Columbus. Blue Ridge gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbus and Blue Ridge