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

Should you visit Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Columbia River Gorge or Moncton, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful, scenic, and natural region. With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a quaint, compact, and cultural city. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Moncton travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge and Moncton: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge than Moncton, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Columbia River Gorge is better known for its food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Moncton is more popular for its museums and attractions. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Also, Columbia River Gorge is famous for Vista House at Crown Point. Moncton is well known for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Columbia River Gorge different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Moncton and Columbia River Gorge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Moncton is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

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

Columbia River Gorge is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Columbia River Gorge has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Columbia River Gorge has a few options to choose from. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Moncton Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is great for hiking. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Moncton are notable shopping destinations.

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Moncton. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Moncton More Beautiful?

Columbia River Gorge is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. Impressive waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas make this a truly beautiful place to visit.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Moncton Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Columbia River Gorge. 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.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Moncton Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Columbia River Gorge is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

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

Columbia River Gorge is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Moncton offer respectable public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Moncton a more walkable city?

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

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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

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

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

How long in Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Moncton. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Columbia River Gorge 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 Moncton 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 Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

In Columbia River Gorge, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Moncton. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Moncton has to offer.

A weekend in Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

In Columbia River Gorge, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbia River Gorge has to offer.

Moncton is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

Columbia River Gorge is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Many people visit Moncton for five days. You'll find museums and food around the city of Moncton. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbia River Gorge. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The quaint destination of Moncton offers food and shopping. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Columbia River Gorge and Moncton, we can see that Columbia River Gorge is more expensive. And not only is Moncton much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Moncton would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Moncton 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 Moncton.

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

Which is Bigger, Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

Moncton has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Columbia River Gorge and Moncton, 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 Columbia River Gorge or Moncton?

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 Columbia River Gorge or Moncton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Columbia River Gorge as well as Moncton. Many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Moncton in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Columbia River Gorge is generally around the same temperature as Moncton. Daily temperatures in Columbia River Gorge average around 68°F (20°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Columbia River Gorge usually gets less rain in July than Moncton. Columbia River Gorge gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Moncton and Columbia River Gorge are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Moncton for the shopping scene during these months.

Columbia River Gorge is much warmer than Moncton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Columbia River Gorge averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In October, Columbia River Gorge usually receives less rain than Moncton. Columbia River Gorge gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Moncton and Columbia River Gorge during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Moncton because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Moncton can be very cold. Columbia River Gorge can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Columbia River Gorge is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Columbia River Gorge in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Moncton averages at about -8°C (17°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. Columbia River Gorge usually gets more rain in January than Moncton. Columbia River Gorge gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbia River Gorge and Moncton. The spring months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Moncton in the spring. In April, Columbia River Gorge is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Columbia River Gorge average around 51°F (11°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Columbia River Gorge usually receives less rain than Moncton. Columbia River Gorge gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Moncton and Columbia River Gorge