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

Should you visit Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Wilmington 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.

Wilmington and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak


Is there more to do in Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Wilmington than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Wilmington, Wilmington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wilmington is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Wilmington is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. It is also home to the Battleship North Carolina. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Wilmington different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is adequate for skiing. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a skiing destination.


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

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

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

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

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

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

Both Wilmington and Colorado Springs offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Colorado Springs. 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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

The vibe at night is good in both Wilmington and Colorado Springs.

If you're looking for night time activities Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

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

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

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

Many visitors go to Wilmington to see the historical old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

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

Wilmington is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Wilmington or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

Wilmington and Colorado Springs are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Colorado Springs is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

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

Couples visit Wilmington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination 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.

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

For students, both Wilmington and Colorado Springs are good places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

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


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

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

Wilmington is a city 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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Wilmington
Colorado Springs

Wilmington is very good for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Wilmington is somewhat walkable. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Wilmington Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Wilmington than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wilmington 2-5 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the welcoming destination of Wilmington. 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 city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and nightlife around the friendly 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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

You'll find shopping and museums around the welcoming city of Wilmington. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

Wilmington 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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

Wilmington is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Wilmington?

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

  • Wilmington Prices
    USA Prices
    Colorado Springs Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wilmington $245
    Colorado Springs $205

The average daily cost (per person) in Wilmington is $245, 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 Wilmington and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wilmington $120
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wilmington $240
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Wilmington and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Wilmington 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 Wilmington


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: Wilmington Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wilmington $47
    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 Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $97
    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.
    Wilmington $17
    Colorado Springs $40

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

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

  • True Crime Tour of Wilmington: $20
  • Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $24
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour: $26
  • Holiday Lights Cruise: $30
  • Wilmington Speakeasy and History Tour: $30
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Sunset Cruise with Live Music: $45
  • Wrightsville Beach Sunset Dolphin Tour: $49

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
    Wilmington $39
    Colorado Springs $24


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

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


Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Colorado Springs?

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

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

Wilmington is a little warmer than Colorado Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Wilmington receives a lot of rain in the summer. Wilmington usually gets more rain in July than Colorado Springs. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wilmington 81°F (27°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the shopping scene. 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, Wilmington is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wilmington in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In October, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wilmington 65°F (18°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Wilmington during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year. Furthermore, 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, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 45°F (7°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

Wilmington usually gets more rain in January than Colorado Springs. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wilmington 45°F (7°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

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

Wilmington is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In April, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wilmington 63°F (17°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Wilmington

Wilmington Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 47°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 56°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)