A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. Colorado Springs for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Galveston 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 Galveston and Colorado Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Galveston travel costs.

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.

Galveston and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Galveston or Colorado Springs?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Galveston than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Colorado Springs attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Galveston is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Galveston different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Galveston 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.

Galveston is not a skiing destination.


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

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Galveston is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Galveston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

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 Galveston or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Galveston and Colorado Springs can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Galveston has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Colorado Springs area. 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 Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Galveston is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Galveston know how to have a good time. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

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 Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Galveston is very good for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Galveston to enjoy the beach. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Galveston is very good for its historic old town. However, Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Galveston to see the historical old town. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is an amazing mountain town to visit for hiking. However, Galveston 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.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Colorado Springs?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

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

Galveston is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Galveston or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Galveston is very family-friendly. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Colorado Springs is known to be 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.


Is Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

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

Couples visit Galveston frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

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 Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Galveston or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston 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.

Galveston is not popular with students.


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

Galveston
Colorado Springs

Galveston is a town 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 Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

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 Galveston or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Galveston
Colorado Springs

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

Galveston is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable 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 Galveston Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Galveston and Colorado Springs. In our opinion, Galveston has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Galveston than Colorado Springs. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

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


  • How many days in Galveston or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Galveston or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal destination of Galveston. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and museums around the mountain town of Colorado Springs. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Galveston or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal town of Galveston. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Colorado Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this mountain town has to offer. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Colorado Springs?

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming mountain town of Colorado Springs. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Galveston or Colorado Springs?

Galveston is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Colorado Springs is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Galveston?

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

  • Galveston Prices
    USA Prices
    Colorado Springs Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Galveston $221
    Colorado Springs $205

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $221, 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 Galveston and Colorado Springs in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Galveston 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 Galveston


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: Galveston Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Colorado Springs $36

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 Galveston or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Galveston 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
    Galveston $90
    Colorado Springs $95

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.
    Galveston $15
    Colorado Springs $40

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • Galveston Luggage Storage Close to Cruise Terminal: $9.54
  • Beer Tasting Experience with 4 Beer Flight: $10
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Al's Ghost tour : a small group experience : $19
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • Galveston's Secrets of the Strand Walking Tour : $23
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $24
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $25
  • Dolphin-Watching Cruise: $25
  • Galveston Shadows Ghost Tour Adventure: $25
  • Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour: $25

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Colorado Springs $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour: $20
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $20
  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour in Galveston: $29
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl and Historical Tour near The Strand: $29
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35


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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston 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 Galveston or Colorado Springs?

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 Galveston or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Colorado Springs. The summer months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches, the small town charm, 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.

In July, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 84°F (29°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Galveston usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Colorado Springs. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Galveston 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.

Galveston is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, Galveston usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Galveston during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 the winter, Galveston is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galveston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 26°F (-3°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Galveston in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Galveston is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 70°F (21°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In April, Galveston usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Galveston

Galveston Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)