A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Colorado Springs for Attractions, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit La Paz 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 La Paz 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.

La Paz

La Paz is a cultural, beautiful, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

La Paz and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will generally find more to do in La Paz than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than La Paz, La Paz has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. La Paz is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Colorado Springs attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. La Paz is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also well known for Balandra Beach. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is La Paz different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz is not a skiing destination.


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

La Paz
Colorado Springs

La Paz 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 La Paz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

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 La Paz or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

La Paz is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, La Paz makes for a great culinary experience. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

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 La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

Evening events are nice in both La Paz and Colorado Springs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Colorado Springs. 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 La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

La Paz is very good for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

La Paz 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 La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

La Paz is terrific for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, La Paz is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.


Is La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Colorado Springs?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

La Paz is a great destination for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

La Paz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

Both La Paz and Colorado Springs are superb to visit with kids.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

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 La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

Both La Paz and Colorado Springs are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

La Paz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

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 La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

La Paz is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Is La Paz or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for students. However, La Paz is not popular with students.

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

La Paz is not popular with students.


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

La Paz
Colorado Springs

La Paz is very good for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in La Paz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

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 La Paz or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

La Paz
Colorado Springs

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

La Paz is very walkable. The city is 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 La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Paz and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Paz than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Colorado Springs 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in La Paz or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the cultural destination of La Paz. 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 city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Colorado Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in La Paz or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the authentic city of La Paz. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Colorado Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Colorado Springs?

La Paz is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Colorado Springs?

La Paz is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Colorado Springs. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or La Paz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $118, 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 La Paz and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in La Paz 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 La Paz


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Colorado Springs $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz Airport to Costa Baja Private Roundtrip Transfer: $89
  • La Paz Airport: Private Roundtrip Transfer to La Ventan: $259
  • La Paz Int. Airport (LAP): Private Transfer to La Paz hotels: $174
  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Roundtrip Transfer to La Paz International Airport: $73
  • Private Transfer from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas: $241

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Winter Park to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Keystone resort to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $175
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $186
  • Private Transfer from Beaver Creek Ski Resort to Denver Airport: $218
  • 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

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and La Paz 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
    La Paz $38
    Colorado Springs $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 4 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $82

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.
    La Paz $13
    Colorado Springs $34

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • Transparent Boat Tour with Mushroom Rock: $64
  • Pearls of Pearl Farm Experience: $64
  • Half Day Sandboarding and Paddleboarding Experience in La Paz: $82
  • Unique Mexican Spirits Tasting & Pairing Experience: $85
  • Sunset Sandboarding at La Paz Dunes Tour: $89
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $91
  • Supercombo 2-Day City Tour: $105
  • From Los Cabos: City Tour La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos: $115
  • Half Day Private Tour of the Beaches of La Paz: $115
  • holy spirit island tour: $118
  • Los Cabos Tour from La Paz: $119
  • Snorkel Tour with Whale Shark in La Paz: $121

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Colorado Springs by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Garden of the Gods: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Mesa Verde National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Loveland, CO: $15
  • Colorado: A Scenic Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $24
  • Self Guided Driving and Walking Tour in Garden of the Gods : $25
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Puzzling Adventures Loveland: $35
  • Fort Collins Military Years Tour: $40
  • Fort Collins Early Settlement/Town Beginnings Tour: $40
  • Astronomy Tour: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $12
    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 La Paz and Colorado Springs, we can see that Colorado Springs is more expensive. And not only is La Paz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to La Paz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Paz 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 Colorado Springs would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Colorado Springs than you might in La Paz.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is La Paz Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Colorado Springs?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to La Paz 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 July, La Paz is generally a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 30°C (86°F), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In July, La Paz usually receives less rain than Colorado Springs. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. 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.

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

La Paz usually gets less rain in October than Colorado Springs. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to La Paz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. In the winter, La Paz is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Paz in January average around 18°C (65°F), and Colorado Springs averages at about 26°F (-3°C).

In January, La Paz usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and La Paz during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, La Paz is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 23°C (73°F), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Colorado Springs. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and La Paz

La Paz Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)