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

Should you visit Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee 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.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Cherokee and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

Both Colorado Springs and Cherokee have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Cherokee is more popular for its shopping, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cherokee is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Cherokee different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cherokee or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, Cherokee is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Colorado Springs to take advantage of their winter sports. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Cherokee is not a skiing destination.


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

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Both Cherokee and Colorado Springs have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cherokee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.

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

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cherokee and Colorado Springs can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Cherokee offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

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 Cherokee or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.


Is Cherokee or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is an amazing mountain town to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cherokee. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Cherokee is very good for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Cherokee is a great destination for shopping. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cherokee or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Cherokee and Colorado Springs are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Cherokee is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Colorado Springs is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Cherokee or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

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

Couples visit Cherokee frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

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 Cherokee or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Both Cherokee and Colorado Springs are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Colorado Springs is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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 Cherokee or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for students. However, Cherokee is not popular with students.

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

Cherokee is not popular with students.


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

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

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

Public transit is generally limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

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 Cherokee or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Colorado Springs

Cherokee and Colorado Springs both are decent when exploring on foot.

Cherokee is generally not very walkable. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Cherokee Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

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

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

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


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

One day in Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

You'll find museums and food around the cultural destination of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town 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 Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the genuine town of Cherokee. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

Cherokee is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

Cherokee is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Cherokee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $174, while the average daily cost in Colorado Springs is $155. 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 Cherokee and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee 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 Cherokee


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: Cherokee Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Colorado Springs $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Winter Park to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Keystone resort to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $175
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $186
  • Private Transfer from Beaver Creek Ski Resort to Denver Airport: $218
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport to Snowmass -Arrival Transfer: $295
  • Snowmass Ski Resort to BJC Airport - Departure Transfer: $295
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Centennial Airport - Departure Transfer: $295
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Airport DEN - Departure Private Transfer: $295

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Cherokee 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
    Cherokee $16
    Colorado Springs $45

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.
    Cherokee -
    Colorado Springs $34

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Colorado Springs by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Garden of the Gods: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Mesa Verde National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Loveland, CO: $15
  • Self Guided Driving and Walking Tour in Garden of the Gods : $20
  • Colorado: A Scenic Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $24
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Puzzling Adventures Loveland: $35
  • Fort Collins Military Years Tour: $40
  • Fort Collins Early Settlement/Town Beginnings Tour: $40
  • Astronomy Tour: $45

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Colorado Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Colorado Springs:

  • 2.5-Hour Brewery & Bites Walking Tour: $93
  • Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour: $94
  • Driving Brewery Tour of Colorado Springs: $115


When comparing the travel costs between Cherokee and Colorado Springs, we can see that Cherokee 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 Cherokee Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the hiking and 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.

Cherokee is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Colorado Springs. The autumn months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. 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 the autumn, Cherokee is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cherokee in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Cherokee usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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. It's quite cold in Cherokee in the winter. In January, Cherokee is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 40°F (5°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In January, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

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

Cherokee is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Cherokee

Cherokee Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)