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

Should you visit Richmond 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 Richmond and Colorado Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Richmond and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
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 couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak


Is there more to do in Richmond or Colorado Springs?

You'll generally find more things to do in Colorado Springs than Richmond. Colorado Springs is bigger than Richmond, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Colorado Springs is better known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Richmond is more popular for its museums and shopping. Richmond is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its cultural and historical sights. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. Also, Colorado Springs is famous for Pikes Peak.

How is Richmond different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Richmond or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, Richmond is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Colorado Springs for snow skiing. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Richmond is not a skiing destination.


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

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Richmond 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 Richmond specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Foodies will find both Richmond and Colorado Springs both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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 Richmond or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Evening events are notable in both Richmond and Colorado Springs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

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 Richmond or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

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.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Colorado Springs?

Richmond
Colorado Springs

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

Richmond is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Richmond or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Colorado Springs is known to be 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Richmond or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Both Richmond and Colorado Springs are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Richmond is a good city for couples to visit. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

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.

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

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for backpackers. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Richmond is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination, and most people breeze through town.

Is Richmond or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Richmond and Colorado Springs are both notable destinations for students and younger travelers.

Richmond is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

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


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

Richmond
Colorado Springs

Richmond 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 Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

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 Richmond or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Richmond
Colorado Springs

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

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Colorado Springs?

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

Families should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Richmond. 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 Richmond than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Richmond or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Richmond. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city 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 Richmond or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the friendly city of Richmond. 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.

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 Richmond or Colorado Springs?

Richmond 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 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 Richmond or Colorado Springs?

Richmond 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.

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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Richmond?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $161, 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 Richmond and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Richmond 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 Richmond


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: Richmond Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Colorado Springs $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Winter Park Ski Resort to Denver Airport BJC Departure Transfer: $93
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Eagle County Reg. Airport - Departure Transfer: $131
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $185
  • Private Transfer from Beaver Creek Ski Resort to Denver Airport: $218
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Winter Park - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Steamboat - Private Arrival Transfer: $284
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport to Snowmass -Arrival Transfer: $295
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Centennial Airport - Departure Transfer: $295

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
    Colorado Springs $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90

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.
    Richmond $13
    Colorado Springs $34

Tours and Activities in Richmond

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour: $26
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Court End Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30

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
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Loveland, CO: $15
  • Garden of the Gods: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Self Guided Driving and Walking Tour in Garden of the Gods : $20
  • Colorado: A Scenic Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $24
  • Shared Guided Outdoor Laser Tag Adventure in Colorado: $25
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Pueblo Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Colorado Springs Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Fort Collins Early Settlement/Town Beginnings Tour: $40
  • Fort Collins Military Years Tour: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Colorado Springs $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90

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


Which is Bigger, Richmond or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 89% larger than the population of Richmond. When comparing the sizes of Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and Colorado Springs. The summer months attract visitors to Richmond because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In the summer, Richmond is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Richmond in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Richmond gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Richmond usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Richmond as well as Colorado Springs. The shopping scene are the main draw to Richmond 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 October, Richmond is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 59°F (15°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Richmond usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Richmond 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 Richmond. Richmond is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 36°F (2°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Richmond usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Richmond 36°F (2°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and Richmond during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Richmond is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Richmond in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Richmond usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Richmond 58°F (14°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Richmond

Richmond Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)