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

Should you visit Houston 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 Houston 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.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Houston and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Houston or Colorado Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston than Colorado Springs. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Houston is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Colorado Springs attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Houston different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Houston or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

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

Houston is not a skiing destination.

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

Houston 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 Houston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's 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 Houston or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Houston and Colorado Springs both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Colorado Springs is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Houston or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Houston know how to have a good time. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston or Colorado Springs Better for Music?

Houston is very good for live music. However, Colorado Springs is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Colorado Springs is not a live music destination.

Is Houston or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston 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.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Colorado Springs?

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

Houston is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Houston or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

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

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Colorado Springs. 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 Houston or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Houston and Colorado Springs both nice destinations for a couple.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Colorado Springs is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Houston or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston 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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Houston or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Houston and Colorado Springs are nice places to visit for students.

Houston is popular with students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Houston is a 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 Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience 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 Houston or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Houston and Colorado Springs both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Houston?

How long in Houston or Colorado Springs?

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

Couples should spend more time in Houston than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston or Colorado Springs?

People visit Houston because there is so much to do. 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.

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 Houston or Colorado Springs?

People visit Houston because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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 Houston or Colorado Springs?

Houston is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Houston or Colorado Springs?

Houston is a great place to explore. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Houston or Colorado Springs?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Colorado Springs. When comparing the sizes of Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

Both Colorado Springs and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, 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.

In July, Houston is generally a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 84°F (29°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In July, Houston usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Houston or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Houston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Houston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Houston is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. Houston usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, 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 the winter, Houston is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Houston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Houston usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Houston or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Houston as well as Colorado Springs. The spring months attract visitors to Houston because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In April, Houston is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 70°F (21°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Houston usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Houston 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 Houston