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

Should you visit Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Colorado Springs, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. Islamorada is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Islamorada 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.

Islamorada and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Colorado Springs are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Islamorada is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Islamorada different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Islamorada 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.

Islamorada is not a skiing destination.


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

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

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

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

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

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Islamorada 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, Islamorada makes for a great culinary experience. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Islamorada and Colorado Springs.

If you're looking for night time activities Islamorada has a few options to choose from. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

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.


Is Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Islamorada is very good for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Islamorada has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Islamorada is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Islamorada. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

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

Islamorada is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.


Is Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is renowned for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Colorado Springs draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

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

Islamorada is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Islamorada or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Islamorada and Colorado Springs both are comparable with their excellent scenery and beauty.

Islamorada is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Striking blue water and white sand make this a truly tropical paradise. You can sip frozen drinks and relax in the sun as your troubles slip away.

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.


Is Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

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

Islamorada is one of the most popular family destinations. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Islamorada is terrific for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Islamorada has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for 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.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.


Is Islamorada or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Islamorada 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.

Islamorada is not popular with students.

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

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Neither Islamorada or Colorado Springs offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is adequate for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

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.

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.


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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

Couples should spend more time in Islamorada than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Islamorada 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the adventurous destination of Islamorada. 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 village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy 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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the adventurous village of Islamorada. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

Islamorada 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.

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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

Islamorada 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.

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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Islamorada?

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

  • Islamorada Prices
    USA Prices
    Colorado Springs Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Islamorada $179
    Colorado Springs $205

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $179, 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 Islamorada and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada 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 Islamorada


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: Islamorada Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $81
    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.
    Islamorada $19
    Colorado Springs $40

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 1.5 Hour (20 miles) Waverunner Tour. See Mangrove Tunnels, 20 Islands & SandBar: $259
  • Private Snorkel & Sandbar Adventure: $599
  • Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Sandbar: $950
  • 2 Hour Private Eco-Tour: $950
  • From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour: $1,515

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

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

  • Pikes Peak America's Mountain Guided Bus Tour: $239
  • 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 Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Luxury Jeep Tours: $149
  • Colorado Springs Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour: $54
  • Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour: $110

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Colorado Springs $24


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Islamorada usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Islamorada or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In the autumn, Islamorada is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Islamorada. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Islamorada during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Colorado Springs. In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Islamorada usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Islamorada is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Colorado Springs. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Islamorada

Islamorada Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)