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

Should you visit Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and relaxing coastal city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Clearwater travel costs.

Colorado Springs

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

Clearwater and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Clearwater than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Clearwater is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Clearwater is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Clearwater different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

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

Clearwater is not a skiing destination.

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

Clearwater 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 Clearwater specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

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

Clearwater 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, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

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 Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Colorado Springs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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 Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is a great destination for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Clearwater. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is terrific for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Clearwater is a very popular vacation destination. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Colorado Springs?

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

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Clearwater or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Colorado Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town is surrounded by tons of natural beauty. In the area you'll find the Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, and the Broadmoor Seven Falls.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Colorado Springs are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

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 Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Clearwater frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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 Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs is a good destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a good destination for students. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Clearwater is a coastal city 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 Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

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 Clearwater or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Clearwater is very good for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable coastal 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 Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

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

One day in Clearwater or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Clearwater. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy 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 Clearwater or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful coastal city of Clearwater. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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 Clearwater or Colorado Springs?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Clearwater or Colorado Springs?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. 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 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 Clearwater and Colorado Springs, we can see that Clearwater 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 Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater 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 Clearwater Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Colorado Springs?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, 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.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Clearwater gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for the shopping scene. 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 the autumn, Clearwater is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Clearwater usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and Clearwater during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

Clearwater is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Clearwater usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Clearwater