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

Should you visit Colorado Springs or Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton 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. Colorado Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. The famous beauty of Grand Teton National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Grand Teton National Park travel costs.

Colorado Springs and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Colorado Springs. Although Colorado Springs and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Colorado Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and small town charm, while Grand Teton National Park is known for its resorts, shopping, and impressive beauty. Grand Teton National Park is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. It is also home to Pikes Peak.

How is Colorado Springs different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Colorado Springs to take advantage of their winter sports. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Grand Teton National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Colorado Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.

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

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Colorado Springs. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Colorado Springs is a popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.


Is Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great destination for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Grand Teton National Park. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

You'll find world-class hiking in both Colorado Springs and Grand Teton 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, Grand Teton National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

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

Grand Teton National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park is one of the main draws. The park is filled with spectacular mountain peaks and dramatic landscapes that will take your breath away.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Colorado Springs or Grand Teton 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, Grand Teton National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Is Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park 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, Grand Teton National Park has plenty to offer. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

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

Grand Teton National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

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

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Neither Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park offer decent public transit.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Colorado Springs and Grand Teton National Park both are decent 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.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not a very walkable mountain town. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

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

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Colorado Springs and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Colorado Springs, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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


  • How many days in Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Colorado Springs 2-3 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the friendly mountain town of Colorado Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find around the spectacular destination of Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Colorado Springs. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the hiking. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find around the impressive park of Grand Teton National Park. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Colorado Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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. It offers something for everyone.

Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Colorado Springs is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


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, Grand Teton 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
    Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Colorado Springs $205
    Grand Teton National Park $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Colorado Springs is $205, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $196. 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 Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Colorado Springs $81
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Colorado Springs $162
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Colorado Springs and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Colorado Springs or Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton 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 Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Colorado Springs $36
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Eagle Airport (EGE) to Glenwood Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $176

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Colorado Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton 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
    Grand Teton National Park $80
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $165

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Colorado Springs $40
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

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

  • Pikes Peak America's Mountain Guided Bus Tour: $239
  • 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 Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Luxury Jeep Tours: $149
  • Colorado Springs Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour: $54
  • Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour: $110

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Grand Teton National Park: $17
  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $130
  • Via Ferrata Adventure at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: $273

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Colorado Springs $24
    Grand Teton National Park $19


When comparing the travel costs between Colorado Springs and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.