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

Should you visit Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Colorado Springs can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful island. It's a quaint destination. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

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.

Key Largo and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • 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 Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Colorado Springs than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Colorado Springs is better known for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. Also, Colorado Springs is famous for Pikes Peak.

How is Key Largo different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Key Largo 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.

Key Largo is not a skiing destination.


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

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.


Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Key Largo 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 Key Largo. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Key Largo is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

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

Many people head to Key Largo to enjoy the beach. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.


Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Around Colorado Springs visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

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

Key Largo is one of the most popular family destinations. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

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 Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Both Key Largo and Colorado Springs are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Key Largo is a good island for couples to visit. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

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.


Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

Colorado Springs is a good mountain town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Key Largo or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Key Largo 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.

Key Largo is not popular with students.

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

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Neither Key Largo or Colorado Springs offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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 Key Largo or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

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.

Key Largo is not a walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key Largo Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key Largo and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Key Largo 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 Key Largo or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxed destination of Key Largo. 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 island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and museums around the mountain town of Colorado Springs. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful island of Key Largo. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Colorado Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this mountain town has to offer. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly mountain town of Colorado Springs. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

Key Largo is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Colorado Springs is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Key Largo?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo 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 Key Largo and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo 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 Key Largo


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Colorado Springs $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

Also for Key Largo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Centennial Airport - Departure Transfer: $295
  • Snowmass Ski Resort to BJC Airport - Departure Transfer: $295
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport to Snowmass -Arrival Transfer: $295
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Airport DEN - Departure Private Transfer: $295
  • Private Transfer from Beaver Creek Ski Resort to Denver Airport: $218
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $186
  • Keystone resort to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $175
  • Winter Park to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $60
    Colorado Springs $45

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.
    Key Largo $27
    Colorado Springs $34

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Key Largo.

  • Florida Key West Self-Driving Tour (Overseas Highway, 7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Sunset Pontoon Boat Tour Around Key Largo: $36
  • Ultimate Florida Self Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $40
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Small Group Florida Keys Eco Tour by Boat: $60
  • Sunset Cruise on the Florida Bay: $60
  • Mangroves and Manatees - Guided Kayak Eco Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Boat Charter Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Adventure in Key Largo: $68
  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $70

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 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
  • Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Luxury Jeep Tours: $129

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    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: $93
  • Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour: $94


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


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Colorado Springs?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Key Largo or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Key Largo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Key Largo is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Key Largo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Key Largo usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 78°F (26°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In October, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Key Largo during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

It's quite cold in Colorado Springs in the winter. Key Largo is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Key Largo usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Colorado Springs. The beaches are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Key Largo is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key Largo in April average around 74°F (24°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

In April, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Key Largo

Key Largo Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)