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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Columbia River Gorge can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Tallahassee 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 shopping, nightlife, and food. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Tallahassee and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge than Tallahassee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Columbia River Gorge is better known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is more popular for its museums and attractions. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Tallahassee and is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Also, Columbia River Gorge is famous for Vista House at Crown Point. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

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

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

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee can be an interesting and educational experience. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital 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 Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

The vibe at night is notable in both Tallahassee and Columbia River Gorge.

If you're looking for night time activities Tallahassee has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is great for hiking. However, Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

If you're looking to go shopping, Tallahassee and Columbia River Gorge both offer plenty of notable spots.

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.


Is Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Columbia River Gorge is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

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

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 backpackers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Is Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Tallahassee is a well-known place for students. However, Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is a great city to visit as a student. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.


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

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Tallahassee and Columbia River Gorge both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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

Is Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Columbia River Gorge

Tallahassee is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

How long in Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Families should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Columbia River Gorge 2-3

One day in Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic region of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge?

Tallahassee 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the natural destination of Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge?

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

The beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge?

The youthful destination of Tallahassee offers nightlife and shopping. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Columbia River Gorge or Tallahassee?

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

  • Tallahassee Prices
    USA Prices
    Columbia River Gorge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tallahassee $190
    Columbia River Gorge $212

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $190, 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 Tallahassee and Columbia River Gorge in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Columbia River Gorge $78

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

Prices for flights to both Columbia River Gorge and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $82
    Columbia River Gorge $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Columbia River Gorge $20

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Treacherous Tallahassee Ghost Tours: $24
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $108
  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $215

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Columbia River Gorge $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallahassee

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tallahassee:

  • Tallahassee Bar Crawl: $15


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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Tallahassee during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tallahassee is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tallahassee in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. In the summer, Tallahassee often gets less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Tallahassee gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 68°F (20°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Columbia River Gorge. The autumn months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

In October, Tallahassee is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 69°F (20°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during autumn. Tallahassee gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 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 Tallahassee.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 55°F (13°C)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Columbia River Gorge. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tallahassee this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Columbia River Gorge. Tallahassee is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Tallahassee gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbia River Gorge. Tallahassee usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 40°F (4°C)

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Tallahassee is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tallahassee in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during spring. Tallahassee gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. In April, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Columbia River Gorge
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)


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