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

Should you visit Savannah or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Should I visit Savannah 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.

Savannah

Savannah is a historic, beautiful, and charming city. Savannah is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Savannah 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 nightlife, food, and hiking. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Savannah and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Savannah. Although Savannah and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Savannah has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Savannah is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Columbia River Gorge is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. It is also home to Forsyth Park.

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

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

Savannah 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 Savannah can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

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

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Savannah makes for a great culinary experience. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

Columbia River Gorge has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Is Savannah or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Savannah 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.

Savannah offers plenty to do in the evening. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

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 Savannah or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

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

Savannah has a beach worth visiting. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

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

Savannah is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Columbia River Gorge does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Savannah to see the historical old town. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Columbia River Gorge does not have a historic old town.

Is Savannah or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular spot for hiking. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Columbia River Gorge?

Savannah 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.

Savannah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

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 Savannah or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and 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.

Savannah is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is filled with historic buildings and streets lined with trees draped in Spanish Moss.

Is Savannah or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Savannah is a family-friendly city. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.

Is Savannah or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Savannah and Columbia River Gorge make for a very good place to visit.

Savannah is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

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.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Savannah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Is Savannah or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

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

Savannah is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Both Savannah and Columbia River Gorge offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.

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

Is Savannah or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

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

Savannah is very walkable. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore 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 Savannah Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Savannah or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

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

One day in Savannah or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Savannah. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Savannah 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 Savannah or Columbia River Gorge?

Savannah is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in 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 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 Savannah or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Savannah for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Savannah. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Savannah or Columbia River Gorge?

The beautiful destination of Savannah offers nightlife and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Savannah 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 Savannah Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Savannah or Columbia River Gorge?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Savannah 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 Savannah 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 Savannah or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Savannah for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Savannah is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the summer. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Savannah. In July, Savannah usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Savannah during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Savannah in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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, Savannah is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Savannah in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Savannah. In the autumn, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Columbia River Gorge. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Columbia River Gorge. Most visitors come to Savannah 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. In January, Savannah is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 49°F (9°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Savannah usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Columbia River Gorge receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Savannah usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Columbia River Gorge. The spring months attract visitors to Savannah because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

Savannah is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 66°F (19°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°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 Savannah this time of the year. In the spring, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Savannah