A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Colorado Springs vs. Cody, Wyoming for Hiking, Attractions, Families, and Food

Should you visit Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming can help you decide which place is right for you.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a historic, fascinating, and activity-filled town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cody, Wyoming. Although Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming are both popular with visitors, Cody, Wyoming has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cody, Wyoming is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cody, Wyoming is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill. It is also home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Colorado Springs different from Cody, Wyoming?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Colorado Springs is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cody, Wyoming 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.

Cody, Wyoming is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming 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 Cody, Wyoming specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting local museums around town. One of the most popular is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. There are also several gun museums like the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum and the Cody Firearms Museum. For history, check out the Museum of the Plains Indian or the Cody Heritage Museum.

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 Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming.

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.

Cody, Wyoming has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Most of the restaurants offer a nod to the Wild West theme. There's a soda saloon, barbecue joints, and old fashioned saloons where you can grab a thick steak or fried green tomatoes. Many have fun decor and a family-friendly vibe that sets the atmosphere.

Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

It's hard to distinguish whether Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming has a better nightlife scene.

Colorado Springs has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Cody, Wyoming has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene, like everything else in town, stays true to the Wild West theme. You'll find cowboys and cowgirls on the dance floor and enjoy live music and cold drinks at the local bar.


Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming Better for its Old Town?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is very good for its historic old town. However, Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cody, Wyoming to see the historical old town. The historic downtown is small, just a few blocks along Sheridan Avenue, but it's filled with personality. The buildings have local character and highlight the town's past.

Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Colorado Springs is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Colorado Springs specifically for its hiking. 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.

Cody, Wyoming has hiking trails worth exploring. It's not hard to get out of town and enjoy some hiking. Trails take you through the local landscapes and sometimes offer you the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

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

Cody, Wyoming is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find quirky shops, local vendors, and sporting equipment stores around town. Whether you want to pick up a souvenir or browse the Wild West paraphernalia, shopping is a fun activity in town.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming Better for Families?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming.

Colorado Springs is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cody, Wyoming is very family-friendly. It's a fun stop off for families who are visiting the national parks in the area. There are diverse activities that will give the kids a break from hiking and nature programs. Make sure you check out the Cody Nite Rodeo, the Old Trail Town, and the horseback riding. For a glimpse at what life was like back in the Wild West, check out a Wild Bunch Gunfighters Show.

Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming Better for Couples?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Both Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming are good destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Cody, Wyoming makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, this is a fun town to shop, dine, and play. There's horseback riding, historical reenactments, and quirky shops. There's also the opportunity to see wildlife and chat with other travelers.

Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Colorado Springs is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Colorado Springs is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Cody, Wyoming is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of campgrounds and cheap motels in the area.


Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming Better for Students?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Colorado Springs is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cody, Wyoming is not popular with students.

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

Cody, Wyoming is not popular with students.

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

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

Neither Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Cody, Wyoming. There's no real public transit through town.

Is Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs
Cody, Wyoming

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

Cody, Wyoming is somewhat walkable. The historic downtown can be explored on foot, but anything outside of town will require a car.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable mountain 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 Colorado Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cody, Wyoming or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Colorado Springs, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cody, Wyoming.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Cody, Wyoming 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 Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming? Ideal Length of Stay
    Colorado Springs 2-3 
    Cody, Wyoming 1-3

One day in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the healthy destination of Colorado Springs. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Cody, Wyoming is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cody, Wyoming is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town 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.

Five days in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Colorado Springs. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Cody, Wyoming 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.


A week in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful mountain town of Colorado Springs. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cody, Wyoming 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cody, Wyoming or Colorado Springs?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Colorado Springs is $155, while the average daily cost in Cody, Wyoming is $157. 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 Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Colorado Springs $81
    Cody, Wyoming $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Colorado Springs $162
    Cody, Wyoming $156
Compare Hotels in Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming

Looking for a hotel in Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming? 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 Colorado Springs


Hotels in Cody, Wyoming


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: Colorado Springs Hotel Prices and Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Colorado Springs $38
    Cody, Wyoming $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Winter Park Ski Resort to Denver Airport BJC Departure Transfer: $93
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Eagle County Reg. Airport - Departure Transfer: $131
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Centennial Airport - Departure Transfer: $295
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport to Snowmass -Arrival Transfer: $295
  • Private Transfer from Beaver Creek Ski Resort to Denver Airport: $218
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Steamboat - Private Arrival Transfer: $284
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $185
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Winter Park - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

Prices for flights to both Cody, Wyoming and Colorado Springs 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
    Colorado Springs $45
    Cody, Wyoming $47
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.
    Colorado Springs $34
    Cody, Wyoming $33

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 15 Minute Aerial Adventure Park in Bailey: $69
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour in Cheyenne Cañon and Broadmoor Area: $108
  • 3 Hours Private Ice Climbing Experience in Colorado: $240
  • 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 Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28

Tours and Activities in Cody, Wyoming

For Cody, Wyoming, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cody Trolley Tours - Best of the West Trolley Tour: $34
  • Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours!: $40
  • Red Canyon River Trip’s all inclusive Half Day Tour! : $85
  • Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tour 5:00: $89
  • Red Canyon Mustang Tour 8am: $89
  • All-Inclusive YNP Lower Loop Tour for 55+Seniors P/U in Cody Wy : $189
  • From Cody: Full-Day Yellowstone National Park Tour: $260
  • Guided Upper Loop of Yellowstone Tour from Cody, WY: $269
  • Guided Lower Loop of Yellowstone Tour from Cody, WY: $269
  • Wild Mustang Half Day Tour - Cody Wyoming - Private: $298
  • Yellowstone Lower Loop Guided Tour from Cody, Wyoming: $298
  • Yellowstone Custom Wildlife and Nature Tour: $298

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Colorado Springs $24
    Cody, Wyoming $18

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 Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming, we can see that Cody, Wyoming 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 Colorado Springs Expensive? and Is Cody, Wyoming Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Colorado Springs or Cody, Wyoming?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Cody, Wyoming. When comparing the sizes of Colorado Springs and Cody, Wyoming, 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.