A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Colorado Springs vs. Niagara Falls for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

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 Niagara Falls can help you decide which place is right for you.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Colorado Springs is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a iconic, breathtaking, and impressive city. Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Colorado Springs and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Niagara Falls than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Niagara Falls is very popular for its shopping, while Colorado Springs attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and small town charm. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for the large volume of water that flows over it. It is also well known for the Journey Behind the Falls. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Colorado Springs different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is not a skiing destination.

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

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Niagara Falls is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Colorado Springs and Niagara Falls.

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.

Niagara Falls has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls has a better nightlife scene.

Colorado Springs has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Niagara Falls has a few options to choose from. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is an amazing mountain town to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Niagara Falls. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is very good for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Niagara Falls is a great destination for shopping. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs and Niagara Falls both are comparable with their great scenery and beauty.

Colorado Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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.

The beauty of Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Is Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

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

Niagara Falls is one of the most popular family destinations. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Colorado Springs is very family-friendly. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Is Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Niagara Falls is a great destination for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Niagara Falls frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

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 Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs and Niagara Falls are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Colorado Springs is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Niagara Falls. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Is Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for students. However, Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Colorado Springs is a good mountain town to visit for students. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

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

Niagara Falls is very good for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Niagara Falls, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system through town.

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 Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

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

Niagara Falls is somewhat walkable. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable mountain town. 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 Colorado Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Niagara Falls than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls 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.

One day in Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Colorado Springs. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the breathtaking destination of Niagara Falls. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A weekend in Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the impressive city of Niagara Falls. If you have a weekend, this city 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. 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 Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Colorado Springs. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Niagara Falls is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful mountain town of Colorado Springs. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Niagara Falls 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 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 Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Colorado Springs and Niagara Falls, we can see that Colorado Springs is more expensive. And not only is Niagara Falls much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Niagara Falls would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.

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 Niagara Falls Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Niagara Falls. When comparing the sizes of Colorado Springs and Niagara Falls, 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 Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Colorado Springs and Niagara Falls. Most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Colorado Springs is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls. Typically, the summer temperatures in Colorado Springs in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In July, Colorado Springs usually receives around the same amount of rain as Niagara Falls. Colorado Springs gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Colorado Springs as well as Niagara Falls. The autumn months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

In October, Colorado Springs is generally cooler than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Colorado Springs average around 48°F (9°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in October than Niagara Falls. Colorado Springs gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

Both Niagara Falls and Colorado Springs are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the museums, and the cuisine are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Niagara Falls. It's quite cold in Colorado Springs in the winter. Colorado Springs is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls in the winter. The daily temperature in Colorado Springs averages around 26°F (-3°C) in January, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

In January, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Niagara Falls. Colorado Springs gets 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

Both Niagara Falls and Colorado Springs during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Colorado Springs is cooler than Niagara Falls. Typically, the spring temperatures in Colorado Springs in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in April than Niagara Falls. Colorado Springs gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Colorado Springs