A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Columbus for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Saint Simons or Columbus?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Columbus? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Columbus

Columbus is a welcoming, down-to-earth, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Columbus travel costs.

Saint Simons and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Columbus?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Columbus are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Columbus is known for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Saint Simons is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Saint Simons different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Columbus?

Columbus is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Columbus is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History Center.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Columbus? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Simons. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbus. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

Columbus is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Columbus has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Columbus?

Saint Simons is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Columbus offers some nice shopping areas. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus More Beautiful?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Columbus.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Columbus is very family-friendly. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus Better for Couples?

Saint Simons is a very popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Saint Simons makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Columbus is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Columbus a more walkable city?

Saint Simons and Columbus both are good when exploring on foot.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable place. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint Simons or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saint Simons than Columbus because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbus.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons than Columbus 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 Saint Simons.

One day in Saint Simons or Columbus?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

In Columbus, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this welcoming city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Columbus?

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Simons, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Columbus is a fun place to experience. 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 Saint Simons or Columbus?

Saint Simons 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.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the friendly destination of Columbus. 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 Saint Simons or Columbus?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Columbus is a popular place to visit. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Columbus, we can see that Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Columbus Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Columbus, 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 Saint Simons or Columbus?

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 Saint Simons or Columbus in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Columbus. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Columbus in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Columbus fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbus. Saint Simons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Columbus. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Columbus in the Autumn?

Both Columbus and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbus for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Saint Simons is much warmer than Columbus. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbus averages at about 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Columbus. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Columbus in the Winter?

Both Columbus and Saint Simons during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Columbus in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Columbus can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in January than Columbus. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Columbus in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Columbus. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Saint Simons is much warmer than Columbus in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Columbus fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Columbus. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbus and Saint Simons