A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ensenada vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Food, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Should I visit Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico? 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.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a cultural, outdoorsy, and historic city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Ensenada travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a mysterious, infamous, and quirky town. And you can't forget about the food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

Ensenada and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ensenada than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ensenada is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. Also, Ensenada is famous for Avenida Lopez Mateos. Roswell, New Mexico is well known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Ensenada different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Ensenada and Roswell, New Mexico.

Ensenada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.


Is the Food Better in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Ensenada is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Ensenada has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Ensenada is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Ensenada. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Ensenada is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Ensenada. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Ensenada is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ensenada. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ensenada. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Roswell, New Mexico offers lots of family activities. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

Is Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Ensenada is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Ensenada makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.


Is Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Ensenada is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ensenada. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

Roswell, New Mexico is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people pass through in route to other destinations, and backpackers are no different.

Is Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ensenada and Roswell, New Mexico.

Public transit is generally limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.

Is Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Ensenada
Roswell, New Mexico

Ensenada is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Ensenada is a very walkable city. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

Roswell, New Mexico is a somewhat walkable city. The historic district is compact and walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Ensenada Worth Visiting? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ensenada than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ensenada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ensenada than Roswell, New Mexico 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 Ensenada.


  • How many days in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ensenada 2-3 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Ensenada, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The town of Roswell, New Mexico offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Ensenada for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ensenada, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Roswell, New Mexico, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Ensenada offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ensenada. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Ensenada?

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

  • Ensenada Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ensenada $115
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Ensenada is $115, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico is $148. 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 Ensenada and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ensenada $42
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ensenada $84
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Ensenada and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico? 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 Ensenada


Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico


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: Ensenada Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ensenada $19
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ensenada

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ensenada:

  • Border and Tijuana Airport Transfers to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Ensenada 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
    Ensenada $61
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ensenada

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ensenada.

  • Mexican Cooking Class at Hacienda Eco-Domes | Valle de Guadalupe: $84
  • Tacos and Margaritas Food Tour in Ensenada Mexico: $85
  • Cooking Class and Margarita Madness at Valle de Guadalupe : $89
  • Surprises, Delights and Joys Ensenada Wine, Mezcal, and Food Tour: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ensenada $9.79
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Ensenada

Here are a few actual costs in Ensenada for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Explore Ensenada with Private Car and Walking Tour: $65
  • 10 Hour Private Tour in ensenada, bufadora or valle de guadalupe: $290
  • ATV Mountain Tour: $70
  • ATV Off Road Adventure Shore Excursion Optional Taco Stop: $119
  • ATV Off-Road Adventure through Valle de Guadalupe + Winery Visit: $77
  • ATV'S on the Mountain with Ocean View Private Tour: $110
  • Adventure in Ensenada with Zipline, Marine Geyser and Shops: $99
  • Canopy Ziplines Tour in Las Cañadas Private Tour: $89
  • Couple Tour: $116
  • Ensenada City Tour on Ford T Replica and Beach Horse Back Riding : $120
  • Ensenada Pvt City Tour w Tacos, Culture, Sites +Massage add ons : $119
  • Ensenada Shore Excursion: Blowhole and La Bufadora Tour with Horseback Riding: $168

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ensenada $9.98
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Ensenada

Also in Ensenada, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience in Maglén: $27
  • Tractor Pull Around Vineyards and Wine Tasting Tour: $56
  • Private Ensenada Tacos and Wine Tour : $109
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Experience: Wine Tastings Included: $112
  • Valle de Guadalupe COUPLES wine tasting for 2: $135
  • wine tours and driver service through valle de guadalupe, Ensenada B.C. Mexico: $145
  • Pvt Wine Tastings + Cheese Store + Massage Shore Excursion: $149
  • Wine Tasting Tour ONLY for Cruise Ship Visitors. ALL INCLUSIVE!: $221
  • Private and custom group Wine tour Valle de Guadalupe : $238


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ensenada Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ensenada or Roswell, New Mexico?

Ensenada has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Ensenada and Roswell, New Mexico, 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.