A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Colorado Springs vs. Olympic National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

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 Olympic National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a vast, pristine, and stunning park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Colorado Springs and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

Both Olympic National Park and Colorado Springs have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Colorado Springs is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, and small town charm, while Olympic National Park attracts visitors for its resorts and shopping. Olympic National Park is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Colorado Springs different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, Olympic National Park is not a skiing destination.

Colorado Springs is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Olympic National Park is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

Both Colorado Springs and Olympic National Park have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Colorado Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Olympic National Park offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

Is the Food Better in Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Colorado Springs and Olympic National Park.

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.

Olympic National Park has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

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.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

You'll find world-class hiking in both Colorado Springs and Olympic National Park.

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.

Known for its hiking, Olympic National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park is a park with a few options for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Olympic National Park is a good destination for shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park.

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, Olympic National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Olympic National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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 Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Olympic National Park is terrific for backpackers. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Olympic National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for students. However, Olympic National Park 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.

Olympic National Park is not popular with students.

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

Olympic National Park is a park 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 Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

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 Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable mountain town. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

In either Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Olympic National Park than Colorado Springs because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Colorado Springs, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park.

One day in Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

In Colorado Springs, you'll find food and museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and food around the stunning destination of Olympic National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this mountain town. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and museums around the stunning park of Olympic National Park. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. 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 hiking. 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 Olympic National Park?

Colorado Springs is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Olympic National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

You'll find food and museums around the outdoorsy destination of Colorado Springs. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Olympic National Park 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 head to the area for the hiking. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Colorado Springs and Olympic National Park, we can see that Colorado Springs is more expensive. And not only is Olympic National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Olympic National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park.

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 Olympic National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park?

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 Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Colorado Springs is a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Colorado Springs in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

In July, Colorado Springs usually receives around the same amount of rain as Olympic National Park. Colorado Springs gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

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

In October, Colorado Springs is generally cooler than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Colorado Springs average around 48°F (9°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in October than Olympic National Park. Colorado Springs gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Olympic National Park. It's quite cold in Colorado Springs in the winter. Colorado Springs is much colder than Olympic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Colorado Springs averages around 26°F (-3°C) in January, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. In January, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Colorado Springs gets 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Colorado Springs is cooler than Olympic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Colorado Springs in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 47°F (8°C).

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in April than Olympic National Park. Colorado Springs gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Colorado Springs