A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Colorado Springs for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

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 Alexandria and Colorado Springs. 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.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a healthy, welcoming, and friendly mountain town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Alexandria and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Alexandria than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Alexandria, Alexandria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alexandria is better known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Alexandria is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Also, Alexandria is famous for Mount Vernon. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Alexandria different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Alexandria is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Colorado Springs for snow skiing. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Alexandria is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Alexandria is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Alexandria specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Colorado Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most people visit this area for the outdoor recreation, not the museums, but in town you'll find the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum, the Peterson Air and Space Museum, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The U.S. Olympic Complex Training Center is also a unique place to visit and well worth some time.

Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and Colorado Springs can be an enjoyable experience.

Alexandria is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Colorado Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

The vibe at night is notable in both Alexandria and Colorado Springs.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Colorado Springs. The town has a number of breweries and a great craft beer selection. There are local bars along Tejon Street, or head through Downtown Colorado Springs for some of the most active nightlife.


Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Alexandria is terrific for its historic old town. However, Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Colorado Springs is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are both world-famous hiking areas, as well as lesser known hikes that the locals often prefer. Some of the more famous places include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. For families, check out Seven Bridges Trail or Mount Muscoco Trail. Loud's Cabin is a longer trail that also includes Seven Bridges Trail.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Alexandria is a great destination for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Alexandria is an extremely popular place for shoppers. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Colorado Springs. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Alexandria is a great destination for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Alexandria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Colorado Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking and exploring nature together will love visiting this town and the areas nearby. There are many hiking trails in easy reach of the town. Hot air balloon rides are also popular and offer an amazing view over the beautiful landscape.

Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

For backpackers, both Alexandria and Colorado Springs are notable places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Colorado Springs. Just outside of town you'll find campgrounds with all of the amenities that you might need. In town, there's also a hostel and several affordable accommodation options.


Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Colorado Springs. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Alexandria is terrific for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Alexandria can take you anywhere. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is quite limited in Colorado Springs. While there are buses, many people come to the area to visit Pikes Peak or several of the other nearby parks, all of which require a car.

Is Alexandria or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Colorado Springs

Alexandria is terrific for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Alexandria on foot is easy. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is walkable, you'll really want to have a car so you can explore the areas outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Colorado Springs 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 Alexandria.


  • How many days in Alexandria or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and nightlife around the healthy mountain town of Colorado Springs, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic city of Alexandria. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Colorado Springs, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this mountain town.

Five days in Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Colorado Springs, a popular mountain town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Colorado Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Colorado Springs is $165. 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 Alexandria and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Colorado Springs? 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 Alexandria


Hotels in Colorado Springs


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: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Colorado Springs $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Denver Centennial Airport to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Transfer: $298
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Steamboat - Private Arrival Transfer: $287
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Vail/Beaver Creek Private Transfer: $221
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $188
  • Colorado Springs Airport (COS) to Pagosa Springs-Arrival Transfer: $177
  • Colorado Springs COS to Pagosa Springs - Round-Trip Transfer: $177
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Eagle County Reg. Airport - Departure Transfer: $133
  • Winter Park to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $133

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Alexandria 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
    Alexandria -
    Colorado Springs $55

Typical Food Prices in Colorado Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Colorado Springs:


  • Cold Stone Ice Cream (family of 4)
    $22
  • Snacks at the Zoo (family of 4)
    $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Colorado Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Colorado Springs.

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show - Colorado Springs, CO: $86
  • Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Colorado Springs $40

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $22
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $35
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour: $99
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

Here are a few actual costs in Colorado Springs for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1-Hour Broadmoor History Segway Tour: $72
  • 1-Hour Segway Tour of Cheyenne Cañon Art, History and Nature: $72
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour in Cheyenne Cañon and Broadmoor Area: $108
  • Astronomy Tour: $45
  • Bike Tour in the Garden of The Gods: $245
  • Broadmoor Hotel History Segway Tour: $78
  • Cheyenne Cañon Art and Nature Segway Tour: $78
  • Cocktails & Tastes Tour in Colorado Springs: $94
  • Colorado Red Rocks Amphitheatre Walking Tour: $34
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Luxury Jeep Tours: $149
  • Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour: $54

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Colorado Springs $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

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

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Colorado Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Colorado Springs:

  • Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour: $68
  • Private Scenic Brewery Tour in Cripple Creek, Colorado: $299


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Colorado Springs, we can see that Colorado Springs is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria 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 Colorado Springs would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Colorado Springs than you might in Alexandria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alexandria Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Colorado Springs, 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 Alexandria or Colorado Springs?

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 Alexandria or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Alexandria is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Alexandria in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Alexandria is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 60°F (15°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Alexandria during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine.

The weather in Colorado Springs can be very cold. Alexandria can be very cold during winter. Alexandria is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Colorado Springs. The spring months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In the spring, Alexandria is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Alexandria in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

In April, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Alexandria

Alexandria Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)