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

Should you visit Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit Norfolk 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a outdoorsy, healthy, and welcoming mountain 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. It's also known for hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Norfolk and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Colorado Springs than Norfolk, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Norfolk is known for its shopping. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence. 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 Norfolk different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Norfolk or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with a few options for winter skiing. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Norfolk and Colorado Springs have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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

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

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

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 Norfolk or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Norfolk or Colorado Springs has a better nightlife scene.

Norfolk has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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 Norfolk or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

Norfolk is very good for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Norfolk is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Norfolk or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Colorado Springs is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Colorado Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Colorado Springs is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and exploring nature together will love visiting this town and the areas nearby. There are many hiking trails in easy reach of the town. Hot air balloon rides are also popular and offer an amazing view over the beautiful landscape.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Norfolk or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options 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.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

Is Norfolk or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for students. However, Norfolk is not popular with students.

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

Norfolk is not popular with students.

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

Norfolk is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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 Norfolk or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

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

Norfolk is somewhat walkable. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Norfolk and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Colorado Springs than in Norfolk. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the blue collar destination of Norfolk. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Colorado Springs, you'll find museums and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the maritime city of Norfolk. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Colorado Springs, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Colorado Springs has to offer.

Five days in Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

Norfolk is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Colorado Springs is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

Norfolk is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Colorado Springs. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Norfolk and Colorado Springs, we can see that Norfolk 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 Norfolk Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

Both Colorado Springs and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Norfolk is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Norfolk. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Norfolk or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Norfolk during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Norfolk for the shopping scene. 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.

In the autumn, Norfolk is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Norfolk in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Norfolk usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Norfolk in the winter for the museums, 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. Norfolk can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Norfolk is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 39°F (4°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Norfolk or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Colorado Springs. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Norfolk is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Norfolk usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Norfolk