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

Should you visit Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Columbia River Gorge, 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music. See Detroit travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a natural, beautiful, and scenic region. The beauty of Columbia River Gorge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Detroit and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit. Although Detroit and Columbia River Gorge are popular destinations, Detroit has more sights and attractions for tourists. Detroit is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit 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 Detroit. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Detroit 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.

Detroit is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Detroit or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Detroit is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for nightlife and partying.

Detroit offers plenty to do in the evening. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Detroit or Columbia River Gorge Better for Music?

Detroit is a world-class destination for live music. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.

Detroit is a world class music destination. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Columbia River Gorge is not a live music destination.

Is Detroit or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Detroit and Columbia River Gorge.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Many visitors go to Columbia River Gorge to go shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Detroit or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Columbia River Gorge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Impressive waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas make this a truly beautiful place to visit.

Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Detroit or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Detroit or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Columbia River Gorge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Detroit and Columbia River Gorge.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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

Is Detroit or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

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

Detroit is somewhat walkable. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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

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

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

How long in Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Detroit and Columbia River Gorge. In our opinion, Columbia River Gorge has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Columbia River Gorge than Detroit. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

Families should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Detroit. 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 Detroit has to offer.

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.

A weekend in Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

Detroit 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.

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.

Five days in Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Detroit for five days. You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Detroit. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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.

A week in Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

The overlooked destination of Detroit offers museums and nightlife. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Detroit 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 Detroit or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Detroit or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Columbia River Gorge. The summer months attract visitors to Detroit because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

In July, Detroit is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 74°F (24°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In the summer, Detroit often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge. Detroit gets 319 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Detroit this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Detroit is around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge in the autumn. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Detroit usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during autumn. Detroit gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Detroit usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Detroit during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Detroit for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Columbia River Gorge can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Detroit. In the winter, Detroit is much colder than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the winter temperatures in Detroit in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Detroit often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Detroit gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun.

Columbia River Gorge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Detroit usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Detroit in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Detroit is generally cooler than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 49°F (9°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. Detroit usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge during spring. Detroit gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Detroit usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Detroit