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

Should you visit Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Jacksonville and Columbia River Gorge. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a under-rated, lively, and youthful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Jacksonville travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful, scenic, and natural region. With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Jacksonville and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jacksonville than Columbia River Gorge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jacksonville is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. Also, Jacksonville is famous for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

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

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

Jacksonville is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Jacksonville can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Jacksonville and Columbia River Gorge.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

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.

Is Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville offers plenty to do in the evening. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

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 Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge?

Jacksonville is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Jacksonville is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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 Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Columbia River Gorge is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. Impressive waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas make this a truly beautiful place to visit.

Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville 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 Columbia River Gorge. 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 Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

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

Columbia River Gorge is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Is Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for students. However, Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

Jacksonville is a good city to visit for students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

Jacksonville has a few public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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

Is Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

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

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jacksonville than Columbia River Gorge 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 Jacksonville.

One day in Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Jacksonville. 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.

In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic region offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge?

Jacksonville is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Columbia River Gorge is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Jacksonville for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful destination of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge?

The lively destination of Jacksonville offers nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Jacksonville is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jacksonville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 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 Jacksonville this time of the year. In the summer, Jacksonville often gets less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during autumn. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Jacksonville during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

It's quite cold in Columbia River Gorge in the winter. Jacksonville is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Jacksonville gets 191 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. Jacksonville usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Columbia River Gorge. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Jacksonville is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jacksonville in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during spring. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Jacksonville