A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hood River vs. Ottawa for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hood River or Ottawa?

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

Should I visit Hood River or Ottawa? 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.

Hood River

Hood River is a agricultural, quaint, and scenic town. With stunning beauty, Hood River attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Hood River travel costs.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a friendly, welcoming, and cultural city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food. See Ottawa travel costs.

Hood River and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hood River or Ottawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hood River. Although Hood River and Ottawa are both popular with visitors, Hood River has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hood River is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ottawa is known for its museums and attractions. Hood River is more touristy than Ottawa and is known for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. It is also home to Multnomah Falls. Ottawa is popular for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Hood River different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hood River or Ottawa Better for Skiing?

Hood River is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Ottawa is not a skiing destination.

Head to Hood River for some great skiing and other winter activities. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Ottawa is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hood River or Ottawa?

Ottawa is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Ottawa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Hood River or Ottawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Hood River has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Hood River or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Hood River is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hood River. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Hood River or Ottawa Better for Hiking?

Hood River is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hood River or Ottawa?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Hood River and Ottawa.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hood River. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Many visitors go to Ottawa to go shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Hood River or Ottawa More Beautiful?

Hood River is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Hood River attracts visitors from all around. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.

Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hood River or Ottawa Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hood River. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Hood River or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Hood River is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

Is Hood River or Ottawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hood River is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

Ottawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Hood River or Ottawa Better for Students?

Ottawa is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hood River is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Ottawa. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Hood River is not popular with students.

Is Hood River or Ottawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ottawa is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Ottawa has some public transit options. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Hood River or Ottawa a more walkable city?

Ottawa is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Ottawa is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

For even more information, also check out Is Hood River Worth Visiting? and Is Ottawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Hood River?

How long in Hood River or Ottawa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hood River and Ottawa. In our opinion, Hood River has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hood River than Ottawa. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hood River than Ottawa 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 Hood River.

One day in Hood River or Ottawa?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Hood River. 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.

With museums and food around the welcoming city of Ottawa, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hood River or Ottawa?

Hood River 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Ottawa, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Hood River or Ottawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hood River. 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.

Ottawa, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Hood River or Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the agricultural destination of Hood River. This town 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.

Ottawa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hood River and Ottawa, we can see that Hood River is more expensive. And not only is Ottawa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ottawa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ottawa 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 Hood River would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hood River than you might in Ottawa.

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

Which is Bigger, Hood River or Ottawa?

Ottawa has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Hood River and Ottawa, 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 Hood River or Ottawa?

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 Hood River or Ottawa in the Summer?

Both Ottawa and Hood River are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Hood River because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ottawa this time of year.

In the summer, Hood River is around the same temperature as Ottawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hood River in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Ottawa averages at about 21°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Ottawa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hood River. Hood River usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during summer. Hood River gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hood River usually receives less rain than Ottawa. Hood River gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hood River or Ottawa in the Autumn?

Both Ottawa and Hood River during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hood River this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ottawa for the shopping scene.

In October, Hood River is generally a little warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Hood River average around 55°F (13°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the autumn, Hood River often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Hood River gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun.

Hood River usually gets less rain in October than Ottawa. Hood River gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hood River or Ottawa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hood River and Ottawa. Many travelers come to Hood River for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ottawa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ottawa can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Hood River. Hood River is much warmer than Ottawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Hood River averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Hood River usually receives less sunshine than Ottawa during winter. Hood River gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hood River gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hood River usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Hood River gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hood River or Ottawa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hood River as well as Ottawa. Many visitors come to Hood River in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hood River is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hood River in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Ottawa averages at about 6°C (44°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hood River this time of the year. In the spring, Hood River often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Hood River gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun.

Hood River usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Ottawa. Hood River gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Hood River