A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Roswell, New Mexico 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.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a relaxing, secluded, and natural island. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and beaches. See Jekyll Island travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. It's also popular because of the food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

Jekyll Island and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jekyll Island. Although Jekyll Island and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Jekyll Island has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Jekyll Island is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and hiking, while Roswell, New Mexico is known for its food. Jekyll Island is popular for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. It is also home to Driftwood Beach. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Roswell, New Mexico and Jekyll Island.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Roswell, New Mexico is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Neither Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico offer decent nightlife.

Jekyll Island doesn't offer many options. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

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 Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Jekyll Island is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Jekyll Island offers a few options. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Jekyll Island is a very popular place for the beach. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Jekyll Island is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Shoppers can find a variety of decent stores in both Jekyll Island and Roswell, New Mexico.

Jekyll Island has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.


Is Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Jekyll Island is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Jekyll Island is very family-friendly. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Jekyll Island makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

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

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.


Is Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Jekyll Island than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Jekyll Island, many people enjoy the museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the infamous destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Jekyll Island offers museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the infamous destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Jekyll Island or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Jekyll Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This island 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.

You'll find museums and food around the town of Roswell, New Mexico. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Jekyll Island?

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

  • Jekyll Island Prices
    USA Prices
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jekyll Island $189
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $189, 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 Jekyll Island and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island


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: Jekyll Island Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Jekyll Island 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
    Jekyll Island $77
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29


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

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


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