A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Colorado Springs for Couples, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a bustling, spirited, and luxury coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a outdoorsy, healthy, and welcoming mountain town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, museums, hiking, and small town charm. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with a few options for winter skiing. However, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.

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

Colorado Springs is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Colorado Springs offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Fort Lauderdale offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Fort Lauderdale is a perfect choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Fort Lauderdale is a very popular vacation destination. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs?

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

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

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

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale 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, Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a good destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

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

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

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

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

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

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fort Lauderdale and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Fort Lauderdale 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.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic destination of Fort Lauderdale. 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.

The friendly destination of Colorado Springs offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the scenic coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. 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.

The mountain town of Colorado Springs offers museums and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs?

Fort Lauderdale 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 is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This mountain town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people enjoy the food and museums when visiting Colorado Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

Both Colorado Springs and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Fort Lauderdale during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for 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, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Colorado Springs. The spring months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Fort Lauderdale