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

Should you visit Orlando or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit Orlando 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for shopping, theater, 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.

Orlando and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Colorado Springs?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Orlando than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Orlando, Orlando has more sights and attractions for tourists. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, museums, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Orlando different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a skiing destination.

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

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Theater?

Orlando is very good for theatre. However, Colorado Springs is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Colorado Springs is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando 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, Orlando makes for a great culinary experience. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

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 Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Orlando is terrific for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Orlando is a perfect choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Colorado Springs?

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

Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Christmas?

Orlando is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Colorado Springs does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando is a world class destination for shoppers. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Colorado Springs does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Orlando is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is one of the most popular family destinations. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Colorado Springs is very family-friendly. 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 Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Colorado Springs make for a good place to visit.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

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 Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

For students, both Orlando and Colorado Springs are good places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

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

Orlando 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 Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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 Orlando or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs is adequate for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable mountain town. While the downtown area is walkable, you'll really want to have a car so you can explore the areas outside of town.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Colorado Springs?

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

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

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

You'll find food and shopping around the family-friendly destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

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 Orlando or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and theater around the family-friendly city of Orlando. 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.

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 Orlando or Colorado Springs?

Orlando is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando or Colorado Springs?

Orlando is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 74% larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Colorado Springs. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Orlando is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orlando 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, Orlando is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orlando in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 January, Orlando is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Orlando usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Colorado Springs. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Orlando is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 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 Orlando