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

Should you visit Roanoke or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit Roanoke 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.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Roanoke 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. With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Roanoke and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Roanoke or Colorado Springs?

Both Colorado Springs and Roanoke have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Roanoke is better known for its shopping, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Roanoke is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Roanoke different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Roanoke or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Colorado Springs and Roanoke.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roanoke. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

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.

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

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Colorado Springs is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Roanoke or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

If you're looking for night time activities Roanoke has a few options to choose from. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

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 Roanoke or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

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

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.

Roanoke is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Roanoke or Colorado Springs?

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

Roanoke is a great destination for shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Roanoke or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs is a great mountain town for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Roanoke or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Colorado Springs is a great mountain town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Colorado Springs. 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.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Roanoke or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Roanoke frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

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 Roanoke or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Roanoke and Colorado Springs are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

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.

Is Roanoke or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not popular with students.

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

Roanoke 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 Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

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 Roanoke or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Roanoke and Colorado Springs are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Roanoke is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

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 Roanoke Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Roanoke?

How long in Roanoke or Colorado Springs?

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

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Roanoke. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Colorado Springs, you'll find museums and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Roanoke or Colorado Springs?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the outdoorsy town of Roanoke. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

In Colorado Springs, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Colorado Springs has to offer.

Five days in Roanoke or Colorado Springs?

Roanoke 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 is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Roanoke or Colorado Springs?

Roanoke 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 find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Colorado Springs. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Roanoke 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 Roanoke Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Roanoke or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Roanoke. When comparing the sizes of Roanoke 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 Roanoke 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 Roanoke or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Roanoke as well as Colorado Springs. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Roanoke this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Roanoke is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Roanoke in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Roanoke receives a lot of rain in the summer. Roanoke usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Roanoke gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Roanoke or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Roanoke are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Roanoke for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Roanoke is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 60°F (16°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, Roanoke usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Roanoke gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Roanoke or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Roanoke during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Roanoke in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine during these months.

Colorado Springs can be very cold during winter. Roanoke can get quite cold in the winter. Roanoke is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Roanoke averages around 38°F (3°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Roanoke usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Roanoke gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Roanoke or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Roanoke and Colorado Springs. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Roanoke is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Roanoke in April average around 59°F (15°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

In April, Roanoke usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Roanoke gets 3.1 inches (79 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 Roanoke