A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Diego vs. Colorado Springs for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit San Diego or Colorado Springs?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Diego and Colorado Springs. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

San Diego

San Diego is a dynamic, energetic, and relaxed coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Colorado Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Colorado Springs. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Colorado Springs attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is San Diego different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

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

Colorado Springs is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

San Diego is not a skiing destination.

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

San Diego 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 San Diego specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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 San Diego or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both San Diego and Colorado Springs.

San Diego has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Colorado Springs area. 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 San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in San Diego know how to have a good time. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Music?

San Diego is a great destination for live music. However, Colorado Springs is not a live music destination.

San Diego has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Colorado Springs is not a live music destination.

Is San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

San Diego is very good for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego 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 San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

San Diego is terrific for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, San Diego is a very popular vacation destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is renowned for hiking. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Colorado Springs is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Colorado Springs?

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

San Diego is a great destination for shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

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

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

San Diego 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, San Diego has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both San Diego and Colorado Springs are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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.

Is San Diego or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

San Diego is terrific for students. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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.

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

San Diego is a coastal 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

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 San Diego or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

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

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable coastal 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 San Diego Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Diego and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for San Diego, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Colorado Springs 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 San Diego.

One day in San Diego or Colorado Springs?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the idyllic destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal city 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 San Diego or Colorado Springs?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the hip coastal city of San Diego. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the welcoming 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 San Diego or Colorado Springs?

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy 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 San Diego or Colorado Springs?

San Diego 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 beaches. 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, San Diego or Colorado Springs?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Colorado Springs. When comparing the sizes of San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Diego as well as Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Diego is generally around the same temperature as Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 71°F (22°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

San Diego usually gets less rain in July than Colorado Springs. San Diego gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Diego or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and San Diego are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Diego in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

San Diego is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, San Diego usually receives less rain than Colorado Springs. San Diego gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Diego or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and San Diego during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine.

The weather in Colorado Springs can be very cold. In the winter, San Diego is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Diego in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 26°F (-3°C).

San Diego usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. San Diego gets 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Diego or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Diego and Colorado Springs. The spring months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In April, San Diego is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 62°F (17°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In April, San Diego usually receives less rain than Colorado Springs. San Diego gets 0.8 inches (20 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 San Diego