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

Should you visit Monterey 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 Monterey 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Monterey 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.

Monterey and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than Columbia River Gorge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

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

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

Monterey 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 Monterey can be an interesting and educational experience. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Monterey and Columbia River Gorge can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Monterey 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.

Monterey offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 Monterey or Columbia River Gorge Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Columbia River Gorge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monterey or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Monterey has a beach worth visiting. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Monterey or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Columbia River Gorge?

Monterey 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.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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 Monterey or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Monterey or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Monterey is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Monterey is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Monterey and Columbia River Gorge both great destinations for a couple.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Monterey 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 Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Monterey and Columbia River Gorge.

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

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

Is Monterey or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Monterey is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

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

How long in Monterey or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey 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 Monterey.

One day in Monterey or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Monterey. 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 Monterey has to offer.

The beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Monterey or Columbia River Gorge?

Monterey 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.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this region makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Columbia River Gorge, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Monterey or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Columbia River Gorge is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Monterey or Columbia River Gorge?

The relaxing destination of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This region offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Monterey and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Columbia River Gorge 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 Monterey Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Monterey or Columbia River Gorge?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Monterey is cooler than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Monterey in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°C).

Monterey usually gets less rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Monterey gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Monterey are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Monterey for 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, Monterey is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 62°F (17°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In October, Monterey usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Monterey gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Monterey during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Monterey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. Monterey is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Columbia River Gorge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Monterey usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Monterey gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Monterey and Columbia River Gorge. The beaches are the main draw to Monterey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Monterey is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Monterey in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In April, Monterey usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Monterey gets 1.1 inches (29 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 Monterey