A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Colorado Springs for Attractions, Nightlife, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Tulum 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 Tulum 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.

Tulum

Tulum is a lively, ancient, and archeological town. Tulum is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Tulum travel costs.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Colorado Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Tulum and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Colorado Springs?

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

How is Tulum different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, Tulum 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.

Tulum is not a skiing destination.

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

Tulum 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 Tulum that are not to be missed. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

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

Tulum 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, Tulum makes for a great culinary experience. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

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 Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

Tulum is a must-see party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

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 Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Tulum is terrific for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Tulum is a perfect choice. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

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

Tulum is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum is not to be missed. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Tulum is terrific for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Tulum is a very popular vacation destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Colorado Springs visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Colorado Springs?

Tulum is a great destination for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Tulum is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tulum or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Tulum and Colorado Springs both are comparable with their superb scenery and beauty.

Tulum is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

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 Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Colorado Springs are superb to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

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 Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Tulum 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, Tulum has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

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 Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum 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 Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

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 Tulum or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with good options for students. However, Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Tulum 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 Tulum, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

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 Tulum or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

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

Tulum is very walkable. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Colorado Springs?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum 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 Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the ancient destination of Tulum. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Colorado Springs, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this welcoming destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the archeological town of Tulum. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Colorado Springs. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Colorado Springs?

Tulum 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.

Colorado Springs is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Colorado Springs. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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.

A week in Tulum or Colorado Springs?

Tulum 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the friendly destination of Colorado Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tulum and Colorado Springs, we can see that Colorado Springs is more expensive. And not only is Tulum much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tulum would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tulum 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 Tulum.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum 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 Tulum or Colorado Springs?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tulum or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Tulum in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tulum is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tulum usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tulum or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to Tulum for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, 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 the autumn, Tulum is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tulum in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Also, the hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Should I visit Tulum or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Tulum because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. In January, Tulum is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 23°C (74°F), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Tulum usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tulum or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and Tulum during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Tulum is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Tulum usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Tulum