A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Columbus vs. Park City Utah for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Columbus or Park City Utah?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Park City Utah? 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.

Columbus

Columbus is a down-to-earth, authentic, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Columbus travel costs.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a adventurous, active, and high energy town. Park City Utah is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Park City Utah travel costs.

Columbus and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Columbus or Park City Utah?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Park City Utah than Columbus, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Park City Utah is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Columbus is more popular for its museums and attractions. Park City Utah is more touristy than Columbus and is known for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Park City Utah is famous for Deer Valley Resort. Columbus is well known for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Columbus or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Columbus is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Park City Utah should be on your list. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

Columbus is not a skiing destination.


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

Columbus
Park City Utah

Columbus is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Columbus. 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.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

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

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

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 Columbus or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah just to party. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

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 Columbus or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Columbus
Park City Utah

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

Park City Utah is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Columbus or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Park City Utah?

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

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 Columbus or Park City Utah More Beautiful?

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Park City Utah is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and is a charming and beautiful mountain town.

Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Columbus or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Park City Utah is a very family-friendly destination. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

Columbus is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Columbus or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Park City Utah makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

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 Columbus or Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbus
Park City Utah

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.

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

Columbus
Park City Utah

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

Public transit in Park City Utah is fairly effecient and thorough. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

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 Columbus or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Columbus
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Park City Utah. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore 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 Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is Park City Utah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Park City Utah?

In either Columbus or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Park City Utah than Columbus because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Columbus, and 3-5 days is enough time in Park City Utah.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Columbus or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Columbus 1-2 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Columbus or Park City Utah?

In Columbus, you'll find nightlife and shopping. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The beautiful town of Park City Utah offers 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.

A weekend in Columbus or Park City Utah?

Columbus is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Park City Utah 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.

Five days in Columbus or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbus. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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


A week in Columbus or Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Columbus. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.

Park City Utah 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Columbus?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Columbus Prices
    USA Prices
    Park City Utah Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Columbus $193
    Park City Utah $368

The average daily cost (per person) in Columbus is $193, while the average daily cost in Park City Utah is $368. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Columbus and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Columbus $72
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Columbus $144
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Columbus and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Columbus or Park City Utah? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Columbus


Hotels in Park City Utah


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Columbus Hotel Prices and Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Columbus $50
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Columbus

Also for Columbus, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212
  • Columbus Ohio (CMH) Airport Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: $180
  • Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) to Columbus - Arrival Private Transfer: $106
  • Columbus to Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) - Departure Private Transfer: $106
  • Columbus International Airport Private Transfer with Bus or Coach: $90

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $175
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $217

Is it cheaper to fly into Columbus or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Columbus change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Columbus $85
    Park City Utah $113

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Columbus

For Columbus, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Short North Walking Food Tour : $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Columbus $46
    Park City Utah $68

Tours and Activities in Columbus

For Columbus, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Columbus Ohio Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Columbus Scavenger Hunt Adventure : $49
  • Experience a Scavenger Hunt in A German Village: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Columbus with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Admission Ticket: $26
  • Shared Yoga and Coffee Experience On The Trolley Pub: $39
  • The Perfect Half Day Columbus Adventure: $59
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Columbus by Crazy Dash: $10

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Ebike Adventure with Sitemap : $125
  • Gourmet Dining Experience: $215
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260
  • Guided Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • Park City Food and Cultural Walking Tour: $150
  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Columbus $20
    Park City Utah $46

Sample the Local Flavors in Columbus

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Columbus:

  • Columbus Ohio Bar Crawl: $15


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Columbus and Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Park City Utah 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 Columbus Expensive? and Is Park City Utah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Columbus or Park City Utah?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Park City Utah. When comparing the sizes of Columbus and Park City Utah, 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.