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

Should you visit Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Should I visit Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge? 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.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a quaint, charming, and historical town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for shopping and museums. See Lewisburg 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 hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Lewisburg and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Lewisburg 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 food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg is known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and small town charm. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also home to Vista House at Crown Point. Lewisburg is popular for its historical charm and friendly personality.

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

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

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.

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

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Columbia River Gorge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Lewisburg is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Columbia River Gorge does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lewisburg to see the historical old town. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Columbia River Gorge does not have a historic old town.


Is Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Shopping is a popular activity in both Columbia River Gorge and Lewisburg.

Lewisburg is a great destination for shopping. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

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 Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Lewisburg is not a destination known for its 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.

Lewisburg is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Columbia River Gorge is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Columbia River Gorge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

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

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.


Is Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

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

Lewisburg is a good town to visit for students. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Lewisburg and Columbia River Gorge.

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

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

Is Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Lewisburg
Columbia River Gorge

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

Lewisburg is somewhat walkable. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable 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 Lewisburg Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lewisburg and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than in Lewisburg. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lewisburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

Families should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg 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.


  • How many days in Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lewisburg 1-2 
    Columbia River Gorge 2-3

One day in Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the region of Columbia River Gorge. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Lewisburg 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the natural destination of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Lewisburg for five days. You'll find museums and shopping around the town of Lewisburg. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

The historical destination of Lewisburg offers shopping and museums. 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 choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Columbia River Gorge or Lewisburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Lewisburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Columbia River Gorge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Lewisburg $161
    Columbia River Gorge $212

The average daily cost (per person) in Lewisburg is $161, while the average daily cost in Columbia River Gorge is $212. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lewisburg and Columbia River Gorge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lewisburg $70
    Columbia River Gorge $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lewisburg $140
    Columbia River Gorge $178
Compare Hotels in Lewisburg and Columbia River Gorge

Looking for a hotel in Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lewisburg


Hotels in Columbia River Gorge


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lewisburg $53
    Columbia River Gorge $78

Is it cheaper to fly into Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Prices for flights to both Columbia River Gorge and Lewisburg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lewisburg $59
    Columbia River Gorge $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lewisburg $18
    Columbia River Gorge $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lewisburg $12
    Columbia River Gorge $12


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

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


Which is Bigger, Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lewisburg and Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Lewisburg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Lewisburg is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the summer. The daily temperature in Lewisburg averages around 74°F (24°C) in July, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Lewisburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lewisburg usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Lewisburg gets 310 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Lewisburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Lewisburg gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 68°F (20°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Lewisburg as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Lewisburg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lewisburg is around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lewisburg in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Lewisburg often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Lewisburg gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Lewisburg usually gets more rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Lewisburg gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 55°F (13°C)

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Lewisburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lewisburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Columbia River Gorge can be very cold. Lewisburg can be very cold during winter. In January, Lewisburg is generally much colder than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 27°F (-3°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Lewisburg usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Lewisburg gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. In January, Lewisburg usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Lewisburg gets 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 40°F (4°C)

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Lewisburg during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lewisburg because of the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

Lewisburg is around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Lewisburg averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. In the spring, Lewisburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge. Lewisburg gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Lewisburg usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Lewisburg gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Lewisburg

Lewisburg Columbia River Gorge
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)


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