A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Columbus vs. Whistler for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Columbus or Whistler?

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

Should I visit Columbus or Whistler? 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 authentic, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Columbus travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and charming village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Whistler travel costs.

Columbus and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbus or Whistler?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Whistler. Although Columbus and Whistler are both popular with visitors, Whistler has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Whistler is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Columbus is known for its museums and attractions. Whistler is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to Cloudraker Skybridge. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Columbus or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Columbus is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Whistler should be on your list. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Columbus is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Columbus or Whistler?

Columbus is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

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 Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Whistler 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 Whistler. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Whistler has a large number of nightlife venues. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Whistler Better for Resorts?

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

Whistler is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Columbus or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Columbus is not a hiking destination.

People visit Whistler specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Whistler?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Columbus and Whistler.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Whistler offers some nice shopping areas. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Columbus or Whistler More Beautiful?

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

Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Columbus or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler 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, Whistler is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Whistler Better for Couples?

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

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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 Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Whistler is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Columbus and Whistler.

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 generally limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Columbus or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler 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.

Whistler is very walkable. It's a compact town that's 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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Whistler?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler 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 Whistler.

One day in Columbus or Whistler?

The city of Columbus offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The beautiful village of Whistler 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 Whistler?

Columbus 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Columbus, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Whistler 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 Whistler?

Columbus is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Whistler, 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 Whistler?

Columbus is a great place to explore. 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.

Whistler 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 village 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Columbus or Whistler?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Columbus and Whistler, 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 Columbus or Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Whistler. Many travelers come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Whistler in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Columbus is a little warmer than Whistler in the summer. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Whistler. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbus this time of the year. In the summer, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Whistler. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

Columbus receives a lot of rain in the summer. Columbus usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Columbus in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Columbus is a little warmer than Whistler. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Columbus in October average around 57°F (14°C), and Whistler averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Columbus usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In October, Columbus usually receives less rain than Whistler. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Columbus or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and Columbus during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Columbus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Whistler because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Whistler can be very cold. Columbus can be very cold during winter. In January, Columbus is generally much colder than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 30°F (-1°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Columbus often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Columbus usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Whistler. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

Columbus is a little warmer than Whistler in the spring. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Columbus usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Columbus usually receives less rain than Whistler. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Columbus