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

Should you visit Tampa or Denver?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Denver? 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 laid-back, easy-going, and low-key city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Denver

Denver is a park-filled, suburban, and accessible city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Tampa and Denver: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Tampa or Denver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Denver than Tampa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Denver is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Tampa is known for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Tampa is popular for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. Denver is popular for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area. It is also home to Red Rocks Park.

How is Tampa different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tampa or Denver Better for Skiing?

Tampa
Denver

Denver is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Tampa is not a skiing destination.

Head to Denver for some great skiing and other winter activities. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Tampa is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Denver?

Tampa
Denver

Denver is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tampa
Denver

Tampa is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tampa. 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.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Tampa or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Denver

Denver 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 Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.

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 Denver Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Denver

Tampa is a moderate city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Denver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Tampa. 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.

Denver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Denver Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Denver

Tampa is a well-known place for the beache. However, Denver is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tampa. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Denver is not a beach destination.

Is Tampa or Denver Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Denver

Denver is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Denver is a good destination for hiking. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Denver?

Tampa
Denver

Denver is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Denver Better for Families?

Tampa
Denver

Tampa is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tampa is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Denver is a family-friendly city. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Is Tampa or Denver Better for Couples?

Tampa
Denver

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

Denver is a good city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

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 Denver Better for Students?

Tampa
Denver

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

Plenty of students visit Denver. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Tampa is not popular with students.

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

Tampa
Denver

Denver is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Denver has some public transit options. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

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

Is Tampa or Denver a more walkable city?

Tampa
Denver

Tampa is a moderate city for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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

Denver is not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Denver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denver or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Denver?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denver 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 Denver.


  • How many days in Tampa or Denver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Denver 2-3

One day in Tampa or Denver?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Tampa. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Denver, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this suburban destination offers. This city 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 Denver?

Tampa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Denver. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Denver is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Denver. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Tampa or Denver?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the easy-going destination of Tampa. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the accessible destination of Denver. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


Which place is cheaper, Denver 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 Denver is $218. 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 Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Tampa or Denver? 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 Denver


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 Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Denver $101

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Private transfer: From Tampa to airport and vice versa : $18
  • Private Arrival Transfer In Tampa International Airport (TPA) : $35
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Tampa Airport (TPA): $36
  • Private One-way Tampa Airport Transfer To/From Tampa: $46
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port-Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Airport to Tampa Bay Cruise Port Private Arrival Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Transfer in private minivan from Denver International Airport(DEN) to Downtown: $86
  • Transfer in private minivan from Denver Downtown to International Airport (DEN): $86
  • Transfer in Private Car from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Downtown: $72
  • Transfer in Private Car from Denver Downtown to International Airport (DEN) : $72
  • Round trip transfer in private minivan from-to Denver Intl. Airport to Downtown: $173
  • Round trip transfer in Private Car from-to Denver Int. Airport (DEN) to Downtown: $144
  • Private Transfer from Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury Van: $138
  • Private Transfer from Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Business Car: $109
  • Private Transfer from Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Luxury Van: $138
  • Private Transfer from Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Business Car: $109
  • Private One-way Denver Airport Transfer To/From Denver: $115
  • Private One Way Transfer From and To Denver Colorado: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver 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
    Denver $42

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 Denver

Some typical examples of dining costs in Denver are as follows:


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

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

  • Denver : Hands-on Cooking Classes With Chef Kevin: $55
  • Denver : Paella Cooking Class With Local Chef: $55
  • Downtown Denver Savory Food Tour: $74
  • RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $79
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $79
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Denver $52

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • Ybor City Immigrant influence Smart Phone guided App (GPS) walking tour: $6.50
  • Tampa Riverwalk: A Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.38
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Tampa by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour: $26
  • Discover Tampa with Local Stories from a Virtual Tour: $30
  • Sunset and Night Cruises Tour: $30
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31

Tours and Activities in Denver

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

  • Colorado Green Friendly Mountain Sunset Tour from Denver: $79
  • Denver's Wild West Walking Tour & Ballpark Museum : $24
  • Shared Golden's History Wagon Ride Tour in Colorado: $65
  • Small-Group Cocktail Tour in Denver: $99
  • 1-Hour Ghost Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear in Cheeseman Park: $25
  • 1.5 Hour RiNo Art District Walking Tour: $28
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour LoDo Historic Walking Tour in Denver: $28
  • 3 Hour Private Walking Tour in Denver with Professional Guide: $232
  • 3 Hour Whiskey and History Tour: $99
  • Archery Dodgeball - 75 Minute Indoor Experience: $31
  • Beginner Rock Climbing Tour: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Denver $5.31

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
  • Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200
  • Tampa Heights Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

Also in Denver, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Through Denver RiNo Arts District : $25
  • 4-Hour Downtown Denver Pub Crawl: $25
  • California Vs. Colorado Wine Tasting: $30
  • Denver Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Private Vintner's Wine Tasting Experience in Colorado: $40
  • Golden Ghosts & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $45
  • Vintner's Personalized Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wild West Pub Crawl in Golden: $65
  • Craft Distillery Bus Tour: $71
  • Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert : $74
  • Denver Pedicab Brewery Tour: $130


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tampa and Denver, we can see that Denver is more expensive. And not only is Tampa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tampa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tampa 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 Denver would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Denver than you might in Tampa.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tampa Expensive? and Is Denver Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Denver?

Denver has a larger population, and is about 71% larger than the population of Tampa. When comparing the sizes of Tampa and Denver, 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.