A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Colorado Springs vs. Park City Utah for Skiing, Nightlife, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

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 Park City Utah can help you decide which place is right for you.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a healthy, welcoming, and friendly mountain town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a adventurous, active, and high energy town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Colorado Springs and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for skiing
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Park City Utah than Colorado Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Park City Utah is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its museums, hiking, and small town charm. Park City Utah is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Park City Utah is famous for Deer Valley Resort. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Colorado Springs different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is terrific for winter skiing. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for skiing.

Park City Utah is among the world's best ski destinations. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

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.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Colorado Springs is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Colorado Springs. 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.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is the Food Better in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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, Park City Utah makes for a great culinary experience. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

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 Colorado Springs or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is terrific for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Park City Utah is a must-see party destination. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

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 Colorado Springs or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Colorado Springs is an amazing mountain town to visit for hiking. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a great destination for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Park City Utah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Colorado Springs or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Park City Utah is one of the most popular family destinations. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

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 Colorado Springs or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is terrific for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Park City Utah has plenty to offer. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

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 Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Colorado Springs and Park City Utah are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.


Is Colorado Springs or Park City Utah Better for Students?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Colorado Springs is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Park City Utah is not popular with 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.

Park City Utah is not popular with students.

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

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a great destination for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Park City Utah. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

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 Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs
Park City Utah

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

Getting around Park City Utah on foot is easy. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

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 Park City Utah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

In either Colorado Springs or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Park City Utah 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 3-5 days is enough time in Park City Utah.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Colorado Springs 2-3 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

In Colorado Springs, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the active destination of Park City Utah. 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.

A weekend in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

Colorado Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find food and shopping around the active town of Park City Utah. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the mountain town of Colorado Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week 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.

Park City Utah 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.


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, Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah is $320. 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 Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Colorado Springs $81
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Colorado Springs $162
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Colorado Springs and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Colorado Springs or Park City Utah? 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 Park City Utah


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 Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Colorado Springs $38
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $115
  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33
  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah 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
    Park City Utah $65
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
    Park City Utah $68

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 Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Colorado Springs $24
    Park City Utah $46

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Colorado Springs and Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Park City Utah 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 Colorado Springs Expensive? and Is Park City Utah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Colorado Springs or Park City Utah?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Park City Utah. When comparing the sizes of Colorado Springs and Park City Utah, 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.