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

Should you visit Tampa or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food and beaches.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and museums.

Tampa and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
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
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak


Is there more to do in Tampa or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tampa than Colorado Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tampa is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. Also, Tampa is famous for Busch Gardens. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Tampa different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tampa or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a skiing destination.


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

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Colorado Springs. 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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Colorado Springs can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Colorado Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Tampa or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.


Is Tampa or Colorado Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Tampa is a city with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

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

Tampa is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Tampa or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is an amazing mountain town to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.


Is Tampa or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tampa or Colorado Springs.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

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.

Is Tampa or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Colorado Springs is a good mountain town for couples to visit. 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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Tampa or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Tampa is not popular with students.

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.

Tampa is not popular with students.

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

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Neither Tampa or Colorado Springs offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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 Tampa or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Tampa
Colorado Springs

Tampa and Colorado Springs are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

Colorado Springs is generally not very walkable. 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 Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tampa and Colorado Springs. In our opinion, Colorado Springs has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Colorado Springs than Tampa. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Tampa. 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Tampa or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food around the laid-back destination of Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food around the laid-back city of Tampa. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Colorado Springs?

Tampa is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Colorado Springs. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Tampa or Colorado Springs?

Tampa is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the healthy destination of Colorado Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, 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 Tampa and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Colorado Springs $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

Also for Tampa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Business Car: $73
  • Departure Private Transfer: Tampa City to Tampa Airport TPA in Business Car: $73
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Tampa Airport (TPA): $36
  • Private One-way Tampa Airport Transfer To/From Tampa: $46
  • Private Transfer from TPA to Lakeland and Winter Haven: $158
  • Private Transfer from TPA to Tampa / St Petersburg / Clearwater Beach : $121
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach: $189
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport TPA to Lakeland/Winter Haven: $189
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Clearwater: $120
  • Private transfer Arrival or Departure - Tampa International Airport (TPA): $79
  • Private transfer from Tampa airport To Zephyrhills, FL: $155

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Snowmass Ski Resort to BJC Airport - Departure Transfer: $298
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan (BJC) to Steamboat-Arrival Transfer: $232
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Steamboat - Private Arrival Transfer: $287
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Transfer: $298
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $188
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Winter Park - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $265

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Colorado Springs $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

For Tampa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

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.

  • Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs: $79
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show - Colorado Springs, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Colorado Springs $34

Tours and Activities in Tampa

For Tampa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tampa Riverwalk: A Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.33
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour: $26
  • The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour: $30
  • Sunset and Night Cruises Tour: $30
  • Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • Tampa History Cruise: $31
  • Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour: $31
  • The Florida Aquarium Ticket: $34
  • Ghost Investigation Tours with Interactive Paranormal Experience: $35

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

Here are a few actual costs in Colorado Springs for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Red Rocks Private 2 Hour Walking Tour: $80
  • 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
  • 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: $89
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Luxury Jeep Tours: $119

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Colorado Springs $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40

Sample the Local Flavors in Colorado Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Colorado Springs:

  • 2.5-Hour Brewery & Bites Walking Tour: $84
  • Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour: $89


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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Tampa. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

Both Colorado Springs and Tampa during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tampa is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to Tampa for the city's sights and attractions. 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 October, Tampa is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, Tampa usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Tampa in the winter for 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. Tampa is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Tampa usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Tampa is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

In April, Tampa usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Tampa

Tampa Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)