A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. Colorado Springs for Nightlife, Hiking, Couples, and Skiing

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

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and skiing. See Gatlinburg 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. Colorado Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Gatlinburg and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Gatlinburg and Colorado Springs are both popular with visitors, Gatlinburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is known for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also home to the Gatlinburg Strip. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Gatlinburg different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is very good for winter skiing. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for skiing.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

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.

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

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

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

Colorado Springs is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

Gatlinburg is a must-see party destination. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

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 Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is renowned for hiking. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Gatlinburg is a popular spot for hiking. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs?

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

Gatlinburg is a great destination for shopping. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg 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.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Colorado Springs is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Colorado Springs is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Gatlinburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

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 Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg 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.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

Is Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

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

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around 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 Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

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

Gatlinburg is very walkable. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Gatlinburg and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gatlinburg than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Gatlinburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the flashy destination of Gatlinburg. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the friendly mountain town of Colorado Springs, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the high energy city of Gatlinburg. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Colorado Springs, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this mountain town.

Five days in Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs?

Gatlinburg 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.

Colorado Springs, a popular mountain town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs?

Gatlinburg 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 head to the area for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Colorado Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Gatlinburg and Colorado Springs, we can see that Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Colorado Springs. The summer months attract visitors to Gatlinburg because of the hiking. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

Gatlinburg is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Gatlinburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Gatlinburg 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, Gatlinburg is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Gatlinburg in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In October, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Gatlinburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, 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. Be prepared for some very cold days in Gatlinburg. In January, Gatlinburg is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 40°F (5°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

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

Gatlinburg is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In April, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Gatlinburg