A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Columbus vs. Redwood National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Columbus or Redwood National Park?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Redwood National Park? 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 welcoming, down-to-earth, and authentic city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Columbus travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Columbus and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Columbus or Redwood National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Redwood National Park than Columbus, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Redwood National Park is better known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Columbus is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Also, Redwood National Park is famous for Stout Grove. Columbus is well known for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Columbus or Redwood National Park?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Columbus is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Columbus or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Columbus is a city with a few options for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Columbus may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Columbus or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Columbus is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Columbus or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Columbus is not a beach destination.


Is Columbus or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Columbus is not a hiking destination.

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Redwood National Park?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Columbus is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Columbus to go shopping. 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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Columbus or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Columbus or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Columbus or Redwood National Park.

Columbus is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Redwood National Park is a very kid-friendly city. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Columbus or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a very popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Columbus is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Columbus or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Columbus
Redwood National Park

Columbus is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable city. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Redwood National Park?

In either Columbus or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park.

Families should spend more time in Columbus than Redwood National Park. 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.


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

One day in Columbus or Redwood National Park?

In Columbus, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

The beautiful park of Redwood National Park offers . 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbus. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Redwood National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Redwood National Park?

Columbus is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Redwood National Park, 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 Redwood National Park?

You'll find shopping and museums around the welcoming destination of Columbus. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 park 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, Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Columbus $193
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Columbus is $193, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Columbus $72
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Columbus $144
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Columbus and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Columbus or Redwood National Park? 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 Redwood National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Columbus $50
    Redwood National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Columbus

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Columbus or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $56

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
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Columbus

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Columbus $20
    Redwood National Park $11

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 Redwood National Park, we can see that Columbus is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Columbus or Redwood National Park?

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 Columbus or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

Both Redwood National Park and Columbus during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Columbus is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 77°F (25°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In Redwood National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Columbus. In the summer, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Redwood National Park. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbus. Columbus usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Columbus 77°F (25°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Redwood National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Columbus because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

Columbus is around the same temperature as Redwood National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Columbus usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during autumn. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Columbus usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Columbus 57°F (14°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Redwood National Park. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

It's quite cold in Columbus in the winter. In the winter, Columbus is much colder than Redwood National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Columbus in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In the winter, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Redwood National Park. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Redwood National Park. Columbus usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Columbus 30°F (-1°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Columbus or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

Both Redwood National Park and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Columbus is generally a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 54°F (12°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Redwood National Park during spring. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Columbus usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Columbus 54°F (12°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Columbus

Columbus Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 69°F (20°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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