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

Should you visit Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berkeley or Colorado Springs, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Berkeley and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Berkeley than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Berkeley, Berkeley has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Berkeley is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Berkeley is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Also, Berkeley is famous for University of California Botanical Garden. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Berkeley different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Berkeley or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a skiing destination.

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

Berkeley 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 Berkeley specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berkeley is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Colorado Springs has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Berkeley know how to have a good time. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

If you're looking for night time activities Colorado Springs has a few options to choose from. 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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Colorado Springs draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

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

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Berkeley or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Colorado Springs is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Colorado Springs is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly city. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Berkeley or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Berkeley and Colorado Springs are both notable to visit as a couple.

Berkeley is a good city for couples to visit. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Colorado Springs is a nice destination for couples. 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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Berkeley is a great destination for students. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Berkeley is very popular with students. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for 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.

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

Berkeley 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 Berkeley can take you anywhere. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Berkeley and Colorado Springs. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Berkeley than Colorado Springs. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the quirky destination of Berkeley. 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.

The beautiful mountain town of Colorado Springs 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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the progressive city of Berkeley. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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.

Colorado Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this mountain town 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 Colorado Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

Berkeley is a popular choice for travelers. 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 is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

Berkeley is a great place to explore. 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 mountain town offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Berkeley 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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs?

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 Berkeley or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Berkeley and Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Berkeley is cooler than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Berkeley in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In July, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Colorado Springs. Berkeley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Berkeley or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Berkeley as well as Colorado Springs. The autumn months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In October, Berkeley is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 63°F (17°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Berkeley usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Berkeley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berkeley or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Berkeley are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Colorado Springs. Berkeley is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Berkeley usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Berkeley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Berkeley or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and Berkeley during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Berkeley for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Berkeley is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Berkeley in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Berkeley usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Berkeley gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Berkeley