A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Colorado Springs for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and Colorado Springs can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and breathtaking national park. Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shenandoah National Park than Colorado Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shenandoah National Park is better known for its skiing and shopping, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and small town charm. Shenandoah National Park is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Also, Shenandoah National Park is famous for Skyline Drive. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

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

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

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 Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Colorado Springs. 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.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Is the Food Better in Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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.

Shenandoah National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Colorado Springs are destinations which offer amazing hiking.

Around Shenandoah National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Colorado Springs is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with a few options for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of superb scenery and beauty in both Shenandoah National Park and Colorado Springs.

With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

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.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Colorado Springs are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shenandoah National Park. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Shenandoah National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park is terrific for backpackers. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

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

Neither Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park.

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

You'll find skiing around the breathtaking destination of Shenandoah National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and museums around the outdoorsy mountain town of Colorado Springs, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

You'll find skiing around the scenic national park of Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Colorado Springs, there's plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you have a weekend, this mountain town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the friendly mountain town of Colorado Springs. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs?

Shenandoah National Park 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 hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Colorado Springs is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shenandoah National Park and Colorado Springs, we can see that Colorado Springs is more expensive. And not only is Shenandoah National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shenandoah National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shenandoah National Park 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 Colorado Springs would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Colorado Springs than you might in Shenandoah National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shenandoah National Park Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Shenandoah National Park is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Shenandoah National Park is generally a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 56°F (13°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Shenandoah National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

It's quite cold in Colorado Springs in the winter. The weather in Shenandoah National Park can be very cold. Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 32°F (-0°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Colorado Springs. The natural beauty are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

In April, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 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 Shenandoah National Park