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

Should you visit Marathon or Colorado Springs?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Colorado Springs, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a healthy, welcoming, and friendly mountain town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Marathon and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Colorado Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Colorado Springs. Although Marathon and Colorado Springs are both popular with visitors, Colorado Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, and small town charm, while Marathon is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Marathon is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. It is also home to Pikes Peak.

How is Marathon different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Marathon is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Colorado Springs to take advantage of their winter sports. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Marathon is not a skiing destination.

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

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Colorado Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marathon and Colorado Springs offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Colorado Springs. 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 Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Marathon and Colorado Springs.

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Marathon 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 Marathon. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon 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 Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

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

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Colorado Springs draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Marathon and Colorado Springs are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Colorado Springs is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Marathon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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 Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

Neither Marathon or Colorado Springs offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

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 Marathon or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Marathon and Colorado Springs are decent when it comes to walkability.

Marathon is generally not a very walkable island. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Colorado Springs?

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

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

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Marathon. 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 island 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 Marathon or Colorado Springs?

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing island of Marathon. 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 Marathon or Colorado Springs?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Marathon or Colorado Springs?

Marathon is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Colorado Springs, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marathon is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Marathon usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Marathon because of the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In the autumn, Marathon is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Marathon. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Marathon during the winter are popular places to visit. The cuisine are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Colorado Springs. In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Marathon usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Marathon is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Colorado Springs. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Marathon