A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Colorado Springs vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Colorado Springs or Toronto?

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 Toronto can help you decide which place is right for you.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Colorado Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Toronto travel costs.

Colorado Springs and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Toronto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toronto than Colorado Springs, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Toronto is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Toronto is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also home to the CN Tower. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Colorado Springs different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Toronto Better for Skiing?

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

Toronto is not a skiing destination.

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

Toronto is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Toronto that are not to be missed. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

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.

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

Toronto is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Toronto makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

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.

Is Colorado Springs or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is terrific for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Toronto is a must-see party destination. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

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.

Is Colorado Springs or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Around Colorado Springs visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Toronto?

Toronto is terrific for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Toronto is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Toronto More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its 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.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Colorado Springs or Toronto Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Colorado Springs or Toronto.

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, Toronto is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Colorado Springs or Toronto Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

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 Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toronto is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

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 Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is terrific for students. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Toronto. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

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.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Toronto can take you anywhere. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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 Toronto a more walkable city?

Toronto is a great destination for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Toronto is very walkable. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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 Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Toronto?

Both Colorado Springs and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Toronto 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 Toronto.

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

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

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

One day in Colorado Springs or Toronto?

In Colorado Springs, you'll find museums and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

People visit Toronto because there is so much to do. 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 Toronto?

In Colorado Springs, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Colorado Springs has to offer.

People visit Toronto because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Colorado Springs or Toronto?

Colorado Springs is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. 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 Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Colorado Springs. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Toronto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

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

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 Toronto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Colorado Springs or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Colorado Springs. When comparing the sizes of Colorado Springs and Toronto, 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 Toronto?

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 Colorado Springs or Toronto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Colorado Springs as well as Toronto. Many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Toronto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Colorado Springs is around the same temperature as Toronto in the summer. The daily temperature in Colorado Springs averages around 71°F (22°C) in July, and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Colorado Springs usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Toronto. Colorado Springs gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Toronto in the Autumn?

Both Toronto and Colorado Springs are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Toronto for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Colorado Springs is cooler than Toronto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Colorado Springs in October average around 48°F (9°C), and Toronto averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Toronto. Colorado Springs gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Toronto in the Winter?

Both Toronto and Colorado Springs during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Toronto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Toronto can be very cold. Colorado Springs can be very cold during winter. In January, Colorado Springs is generally a little warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Colorado Springs average around 26°F (-3°C), and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in January than Toronto. Colorado Springs gets 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Toronto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Colorado Springs and Toronto. The spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

Colorado Springs is around the same temperature as Toronto in the spring. The daily temperature in Colorado Springs averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In April, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Toronto. Colorado Springs gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Colorado Springs