A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Colorado Springs for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Colorado Springs?

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 Destin and Colorado Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a beautiful, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Colorado Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Destin and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Destin or Colorado Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Colorado Springs. Although Destin and Colorado Springs 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, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Destin is known for its resorts, beaches, and shopping. Destin is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. 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 Destin different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Destin
Colorado Springs

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

Destin is not a skiing destination.


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

Destin
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Destin
Colorado Springs

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

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

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 Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Colorado Springs. 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.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.


Is Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Destin 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 Destin. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Destin is a great destination for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Destin is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

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.

Destin is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Colorado Springs?

Destin
Colorado Springs

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

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Destin or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its 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.

Destin is a beautiful place to visit, too. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Is Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Destin
Colorado Springs

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Colorado Springs.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

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 Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Both Destin and Colorado Springs are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

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 Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.


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

Destin
Colorado Springs

Neither Destin or Colorado Springs offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

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 Destin or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Destin
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

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.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Destin?

How long in Destin or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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


  • How many days in Destin or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Destin or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and food around the relaxing destination of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Colorado Springs. 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.


A weekend in Destin or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful beach town of Destin. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Colorado Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Colorado Springs?

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Colorado Springs?

Destin is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Colorado Springs. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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, Colorado Springs or Destin?

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

  • Destin Prices
    USA Prices
    Colorado Springs Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Destin $229
    Colorado Springs $205

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $229, while the average daily cost in Colorado Springs is $205. 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 Destin and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Destin and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Colorado Springs? 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 Destin


Hotels in Colorado Springs


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: Destin Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Colorado Springs $36

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Destin 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
    Destin $89
    Colorado Springs $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

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

  • Halloween Dinner Cruise & Costume Contest: $115
  • Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise with Sunset Views: $125
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $128

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.
    Destin $17
    Colorado Springs $40
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Destin are as follows:


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

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

  • The Palmetto Pioneers: A Self-Guided Monticello Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Party Cruise aboard the Soundside Cruiser: $19
  • Santa Cruise on the Sound: $25
  • Milton Splash and Dash Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Destin Dolphin Cruise: $30
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach : $33
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Sandestin Sunset Eco-Dolphin Cruise Aboard Sol y Luna: $35
  • Guided Sunset and Eco Tour Non Private in Destin, FL: $35
  • Dolphin and Sunset tour aboard the Hydro Rocket: $35
  • Hydro Rocket Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour from Destin: $35
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises in Destin FL aboard the Hydrojet : $35

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

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

  • Self Guided Driving and Walking Tour in Garden of the Gods : $17
  • Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Mesa Verde National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Black Canyon of the Gunnison: $20
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Guided Ghost Story and History Tour: $28
  • Manitou Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $30
  • Pueblo Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Colorado Springs Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Red Rocks Amphitheatre Historical Walking Tour: $39
  • Fort Collins Early Settlement/Town Beginnings Tour: $45
  • E-Golf Cart Tour in Manitou Springs: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Colorado Springs $24


When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Colorado Springs, we can see that Destin 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 Destin Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Destin or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Colorado Springs, 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 Destin or Colorado Springs?

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 Destin or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Colorado Springs. The summer months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

Destin is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Destin or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Destin as well as Colorado Springs. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Destin is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Destin or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the winter for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine.

Colorado Springs can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Destin is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Destin or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and Destin during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Destin in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Destin is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Destin

Destin Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)