A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hershey vs. Colorado Springs for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Hershey or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Colorado Springs? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. It's also known for shopping and museums.

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.

Hershey and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Hershey or Colorado Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Colorado Springs. Although Hershey and Colorado Springs are both popular with visitors, Colorado Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is known for its resorts and shopping. Hershey is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. It is also home to Pikes Peak.

How is Hershey different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hershey or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

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

Hershey is not a skiing destination.


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

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Both Hershey and Colorado Springs have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car 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 Hershey or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Hershey or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.


Is Hershey or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Hershey 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 Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Hershey or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

People visit Colorado Springs specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Colorado Springs?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

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

Hershey is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Hershey or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

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

Hershey is one of the most popular family destinations. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

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 Hershey or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

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

Couples visit Hershey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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 Hershey or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.


Is Hershey or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for students. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Hershey is a town 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 Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on 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 Hershey or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Hershey
Colorado Springs

Hershey and Colorado Springs both are decent when exploring on foot.

Hershey is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable 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 Hershey Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Colorado Springs?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Hershey than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hershey 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 Hershey 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 Hershey or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Hershey or Colorado Springs?

You'll find museums and shopping around the lighthearted destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

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.

A weekend in Hershey or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the fun-filled town of Hershey. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

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.

Five days in Hershey or Colorado Springs?

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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.


A week in Hershey or Colorado Springs?

Hershey is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Hershey?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $212, while the average daily cost in Colorado Springs is $155. 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 Hershey and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Colorado Springs? 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 Hershey


Hotels in Colorado Springs


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: Hershey Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Colorado Springs $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Winter Park - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $265
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $188
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Transfer: $298
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Steamboat - Private Arrival Transfer: $287
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan (BJC) to Steamboat-Arrival Transfer: $232
  • Snowmass Ski Resort to BJC Airport - Departure Transfer: $298

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Hershey 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
    Hershey $61
    Colorado Springs $45
Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

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.

  • Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs: $79
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show - Colorado Springs, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Colorado Springs $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $25

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

Here are a few actual costs in Colorado Springs for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Mesa Verde National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Loveland, CO: $15
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Pueblo Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Puzzling Adventures Loveland: $35
  • Astronomy Tour: $45
  • E-Bike Winery Tour in Penrose, Colorado: Penrose Uncorked: $49
  • Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour: $54
  • 1-Hour Segway Tour of Cheyenne Cañon Art, History and Nature: $72
  • 1-Hour Broadmoor History Segway Tour: $72
  • Original 3-Hour Food Walking Tour: $73

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Colorado Springs $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Colorado Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Colorado Springs:

  • 2.5-Hour Brewery & Bites Walking Tour: $84
  • Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour: $89


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


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey 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 Hershey 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 Hershey or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

Both Colorado Springs and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hershey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hershey is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In July, Hershey usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Hershey during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hershey for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hershey is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hershey in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Hershey usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Hershey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine during these months.

Colorado Springs can be very cold during winter. Hershey can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Hershey is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 30°F (-1°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Hershey usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Colorado Springs. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Hershey is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 53°F (12°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Hershey usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Hershey

Hershey Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)