A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Columbia River Gorge for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Columbia River Gorge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a scenic, natural, and beautiful region. Columbia River Gorge is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Destin and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Destin and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Columbia River Gorge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Destin is known for its resorts and beaches. Destin is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Columbia River Gorge is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also home to Vista House at Crown Point.

How is Destin different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Columbia River Gorge is a moderate region for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Columbia River Gorge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Destin or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Columbia River Gorge makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

Destin is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Destin is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Destin is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Destin. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular spot for hiking. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

Both Destin and Columbia River Gorge are good shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Destin or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Columbia River Gorge is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

Columbia River Gorge is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Impressive waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas make this a truly beautiful place to visit.

Destin is a beautiful place to visit, too. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Is Destin or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Columbia River Gorge.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Columbia River Gorge is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Destin or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

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

Columbia River Gorge is notable for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a moderate region for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Neither Destin or Columbia River Gorge are walkable places.

Destin is not a walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

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

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

How long in Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Destin 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 Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

Destin is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Columbia River Gorge is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Destin for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the beach town of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbia River Gorge. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful destination of Destin. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, one week is sufficent for most.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Columbia River Gorge. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Destin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

Destin has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Columbia River Gorge, 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 Destin or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Destin or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Destin is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Destin is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Destin in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Columbia River Gorge can be very cold during winter. In January, Destin is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Columbia River Gorge receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Columbia River Gorge. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the natural beauty.

Destin is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Destin