A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Colorado Springs vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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 Colorado Springs and Bryce Canyon National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

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 Colorado Springs is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a spectacular, other-worldly, and breathtaking park. The famous beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Colorado Springs and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Colorado Springs. Although Colorado Springs and Bryce Canyon National Park are popular destinations, Colorado Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Colorado Springs is very popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and small town charm, while Bryce Canyon National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. It is also well known for Pikes Peak.

How is Colorado Springs different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Bryce Canyon National Park 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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Colorado Springs is very good for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.

Is the Food Better in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Colorado Springs is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Colorado Springs has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Colorado Springs is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

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.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.


Is Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a park with a few options for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

You'll find fantastic hiking in both Colorado Springs and Bryce Canyon National Park.

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.

Known for its hiking, Bryce Canyon National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a park with a few options for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. This park is one of the most uniquely beautiful, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the colors glow and the hoodoos have a magical quality.

The beauty of Colorado Springs is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town is surrounded by tons of natural beauty. In the area you'll find the Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, and the Broadmoor Seven Falls.

Is Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bryce Canyon National Park is very family-friendly. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Is Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great destination for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Bryce Canyon National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

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 Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Colorado Springs is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Is Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a park 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 Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

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 Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs
Bryce Canyon National Park

Colorado Springs and Bryce Canyon National Park both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

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.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not a very walkable mountain town. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Colorado Springs because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Colorado Springs, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Families should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Bryce Canyon National Park. 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 Bryce Canyon National Park than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bryce Canyon National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Colorado Springs 2-3 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Colorado Springs, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the other-worldly destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Colorado Springs, many people enjoy the food and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find around the breathtaking park of Bryce Canyon National Park. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Colorado Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This mountain town offers something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon National Park 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.

A week in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful mountain town of Colorado Springs. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bryce Canyon National Park 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 hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Colorado Springs?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Colorado Springs Prices
    USA Prices
    Bryce Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Colorado Springs $205
    Bryce Canyon National Park $159

The average daily cost (per person) in Colorado Springs is $205, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $159. 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 Colorado Springs and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Colorado Springs $81
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Colorado Springs $162
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Colorado Springs and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park? 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 Colorado Springs


Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park


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: Colorado Springs Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Colorado Springs $36
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

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: $274
  • Eagle Airport (EGE) to Glenwood Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $177

Is it cheaper to fly into Colorado Springs or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Colorado Springs 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
    Colorado Springs $95
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
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.

  • Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery - Colorado Springs, CO: $89
  • Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Colorado Springs $40
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

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

  • Pikes Peak E-Golf Cart Historic Tour of Manitou Springs: $64
  • 1-Hour Segway Tour of Cheyenne Cañon Art, History and Nature: $89
  • 2-Hour Segway Tour in Cheyenne Cañon and Broadmoor Area: $129
  • Bike Tour in the Garden of The Gods: $244
  • Cheyenne Cañon Art and Nature Segway Tour: $89
  • Cocktails & Tastes Tour in Colorado Springs: $94
  • Colorado Red Rocks Amphitheatre Walking Tour: $39
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Luxury Jeep Tours: $149
  • Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour: $54
  • Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour: $110
  • Garden of The Gods Classic Hiking Tour: $100

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $90
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $115
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $125
  • Zebra Slot Canyon Hiking Tour in Escalante: $139
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139
  • Bryce Canyon Private Tour: $149
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Colorado Springs $24
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Colorado Springs Expensive? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Expensive?.