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

Should you visit Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Nantucket and Colorado Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Nantucket and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Colorado Springs are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing and hiking. Nantucket is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Nantucket different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not a skiing destination.


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

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Nantucket or Colorado Springs.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Nantucket is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Nantucket has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Nantucket and Colorado Springs.

If you're looking for night time activities Nantucket has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

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

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.


Is Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is renowned for hiking. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Colorado Springs specifically for its hiking. 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.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

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

Nantucket is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Colorado Springs.

Nantucket is a very family-friendly destination. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Nantucket is terrific for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Colorado Springs is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

Is Nantucket or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not popular with students.


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

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

Nantucket 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 Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Colorado Springs

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

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Nantucket than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nantucket 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 Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantucket 2-4 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy 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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming 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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

Nantucket is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Nantucket?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $350, 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 Nantucket and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket 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 Nantucket


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: Nantucket Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Colorado Springs $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport to Snowmass -Arrival Transfer: $295
  • Snowmass Ski Resort to BJC Airport - Departure Transfer: $295
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Centennial Airport - Departure 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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $81
    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.
    Nantucket $34
    Colorado Springs $34

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
    Nantucket $35
    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
  • Driving Brewery Tour of Colorado Springs: $115


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


Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket 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 Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Colorado Springs. The summer months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

Nantucket is around the same temperature as Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 68°F (20°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Nantucket usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nantucket is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nantucket in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In October, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Nantucket during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the winter for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine.

Colorado Springs can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nantucket. In January, Nantucket is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 31°F (-0°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. Nantucket usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Nantucket in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Nantucket is around the same temperature as Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Nantucket

Nantucket Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)