A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Colorado Springs vs. Seattle for Hiking, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Colorado Springs or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Seattle

Seattle is a outdoorsy, laid-back, and bustling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, theater, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Seattle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seattle than Colorado Springs. Seattle is bigger than Colorado Springs, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seattle is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Seattle is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. 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 Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Seattle Better for Skiing?

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

While in the area, visitors like to go to Colorado Springs for snow skiing. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Seattle is not a skiing destination.

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

Seattle 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 Seattle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art 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 Colorado Springs or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is very good for theatre. However, Colorado Springs is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Colorado Springs is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Colorado Springs or Seattle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seattle 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, Seattle makes for a great culinary experience. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Seattle know how to have a good time. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a great destination for live music. However, Colorado Springs is not a live music destination.

Seattle has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Colorado Springs is not a live music destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is very good for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Seattle to enjoy the beach. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Seattle?

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

Seattle is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Seattle Better for Families?

Colorado Springs is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Colorado Springs is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly mountain town. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Colorado Springs or Seattle Better for Couples?

Both Colorado Springs and Seattle are notable 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.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Colorado Springs or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs and Seattle 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 Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Colorado Springs or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a great destination for students. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Seattle is very popular with students. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Seattle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle is a great destination for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Colorado Springs and Seattle. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seattle than Colorado Springs. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.

One day in Colorado Springs or Seattle?

In Colorado Springs, you'll find museums and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

People visit Seattle because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Colorado Springs or Seattle?

In Colorado Springs, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Colorado Springs has to offer.

People visit Seattle because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this city 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.

Five days in Colorado Springs or Seattle?

Colorado Springs is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Seattle 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.

A week in Colorado Springs or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Colorado Springs. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Seattle 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Colorado Springs or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Colorado Springs. When comparing the sizes of Colorado Springs and Seattle, 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 Colorado Springs or Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Colorado Springs and Seattle. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Colorado Springs is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Colorado Springs average around 71°F (22°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In July, Colorado Springs usually receives more rain than Seattle. Colorado Springs gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Colorado Springs as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Seattle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Colorado Springs is cooler than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Colorado Springs averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Colorado Springs gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Colorado Springs are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the winter for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Colorado Springs can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Colorado Springs is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Colorado Springs in January average around 26°F (-3°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Seattle. Colorado Springs gets 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Colorado Springs during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Colorado Springs is generally cooler than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Colorado Springs average around 45°F (7°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Colorado Springs gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Colorado Springs