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

Should you visit Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Colorado Springs? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mexico City

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

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and museums. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Mexico City and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mexico City than Colorado Springs. Mexico City is bigger than Colorado Springs, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mexico City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Mexico City is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Mexico City different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Mexico City or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Mexico City is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Colorado Springs for snow skiing. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Mexico City is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Mexico City that are not to be missed. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

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 Mexico City or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Mexico City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

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 Mexico City or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

Mexico City is a must-see party destination. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

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 Mexico City or Colorado Springs Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Mexico City to see the historical old town. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Colorado Springs specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

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

Mexico City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mexico City or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mexico City or Colorado Springs.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mexico City. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.

Colorado Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Is Mexico City or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mexico City and Colorado Springs make for a notable place to visit.

Mexico City is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.

Colorado Springs is a nice destination for couples. 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 Mexico City or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

It's common for backpackers to visit Colorado Springs. Just outside of town you'll find campgrounds with all of the amenities that you might need. In town, there's also a hostel and several affordable accommodation options.

Is Mexico City or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Mexico City is a great destination for students. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Mexico City is very popular with students. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

It's common for students to visit Colorado Springs. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

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

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Mexico City. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

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 Mexico City or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Mexico City and Colorado Springs are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Mexico City is generally not a very walkable city. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Colorado Springs if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Mexico City.

One day in Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

People visit Mexico City because there is so much to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly mountain town of Colorado Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Colorado Springs. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This mountain town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

Mexico City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The welcoming mountain town of Colorado Springs offers museums and nightlife. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

Mexico City 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Colorado Springs. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Colorado Springs?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Colorado Springs. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City 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.