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

Should you visit Key West or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a laid-back, quirky, and eclectic 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. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Key West and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Colorado Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Colorado Springs are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Colorado Springs attracts visitors for its skiing, museums, and hiking. Key West is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Key West 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 West. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, Key West 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.

Key West is not a skiing destination.

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

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Key West and Colorado Springs.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Key West know how to have a good time. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Key West 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 West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

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

Key West 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 Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Key West is a great destination for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Colorado Springs Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Colorado Springs?

Key West is a town with a few options for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Key West is a good destination for shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Colorado Springs.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Key West frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

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

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

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

Neither Key West or Colorado Springs offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few 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 Key West or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Key West is very good for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Key West is somewhat walkable. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Key West or Colorado Springs?

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

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

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

One day in Key West or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the lively destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

The beautiful mountain town of Colorado Springs offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Colorado Springs?

You'll find nightlife and food around the lively town of Key West. 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.

Colorado Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Colorado Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Colorado Springs?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Colorado Springs?

Key West is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This mountain town offers something for everyone.

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 Key West and Colorado Springs, we can see that Key West 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 West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West 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 West Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 West 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 Key West or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Colorado Springs. The beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In July, Key West usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Key West as well as Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

Key West is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

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

Both Colorado Springs and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Key West in the winter for 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. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Key West usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Colorado Springs and Key West during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Colorado Springs. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Key West