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

Should you visit Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a historic, charming, and quaint town. Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Williamsburg 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. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Williamsburg and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Williamsburg than Columbia River Gorge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Williamsburg is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and shopping, while Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Williamsburg is well known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Also, Williamsburg is famous for Colonial Williamsburg. Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

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

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

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg can be an interesting and educational experience. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

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

Foodies will find both Williamsburg and Columbia River Gorge both to be great destinations.

Dining out in Williamsburg is an experience not to be missed. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Columbia River Gorge. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Is Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

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

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Columbia River Gorge does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Williamsburg is revered around the world. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Columbia River Gorge does not have a historic old town.

Is Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

Is Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Williamsburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

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

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

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for backpackers. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Williamsburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a number of restaurants and bars that cater to the student population, but there's little else that attracts backpackers.

Is Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for students. However, Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

Williamsburg is a great destination for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

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

Is Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

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

Williamsburg is generally not very walkable. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

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

How long in Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Williamsburg and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Williamsburg than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Williamsburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Williamsburg 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.

One day in Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Williamsburg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this natural region offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Columbia River Gorge is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Williamsburg for five days. You'll find museums and food around the town of Williamsburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic destination of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge?

The historic destination of Williamsburg offers food and shopping. 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 popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Williamsburg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Williamsburg is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Williamsburg in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Williamsburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Williamsburg usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Williamsburg gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Williamsburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Williamsburg gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Columbia River Gorge. Most visitors come to Williamsburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area 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, Williamsburg is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 61°F (16°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Williamsburg this time of the year. In the autumn, Williamsburg often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Williamsburg gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Columbia River Gorge. Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Williamsburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Williamsburg 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. The weather in Williamsburg can be very cold. Williamsburg is cooler than Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 38°F (4°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Williamsburg usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Williamsburg gets 168 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, Williamsburg usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Williamsburg gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Williamsburg during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Williamsburg is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Williamsburg in April average around 57°F (14°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Williamsburg. In the spring, Williamsburg often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Williamsburg gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Williamsburg gets 3 inches (76 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 Williamsburg