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

Should you visit Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a desert, laid back, and sprawling city. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Phoenix 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.

Phoenix and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Phoenix. Although Phoenix and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Phoenix has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Roswell, New Mexico is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash. Phoenix is popular for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. It is also home to Desert Botanical Garden.

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

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

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Phoenix. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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 Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

Dining out at restaurants in both Phoenix and Roswell, New Mexico can be an enjoyable experience.

Phoenix is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Roswell, New Mexico offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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 Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

Phoenix is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.


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

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

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 Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

Both Phoenix and Roswell, New Mexico are good to visit with kids.

Phoenix offers lots of family activities. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Roswell, New Mexico is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Phoenix makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

Phoenix and Roswell, New Mexico both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

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

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

Phoenix
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

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

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

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

How long in Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Phoenix, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Roswell, New Mexico, you'll find food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Phoenix 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 Phoenix, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Roswell, New Mexico, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Roswell, New Mexico has to offer.

Five days in Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Phoenix 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 great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Phoenix. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Roswell, New Mexico. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


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

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

  • Phoenix Prices
    USA Prices
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Phoenix $276
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Phoenix is $276, 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 Phoenix and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phoenix $144
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phoenix $288
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Phoenix and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Phoenix 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 Phoenix


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phoenix $39
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

Also for Phoenix, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Sedan Car: $125
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Luxury SUV: $152
  • Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels: $110
  • Sky Harbor Airport Private Transfer: $195
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68
  • Phoenix to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) Private Transfer: $80
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $154

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $90
    Roswell, New Mexico $76
Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

For Phoenix, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Secret Food Tours Phoenix: $92
  • Phoenix Food Tour on Trendy Roosevelt Row with 7 Food Tastings: $95
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Old Town Food Tour of Hidden Gems with 6 Food Tastings: $105
  • Sunset at Desert Botanical Garden: Dinner & Walking Tour : $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Phoenix $40
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • Phoenix South Mountain Hiking Tour Experience: $64
  • 1-2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Hiking Tour: $70
  • 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour in the Festive of Phoenix : $261
  • 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $69
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: $75
  • 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure: $115
  • 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Experience in Sonoran Desert: $237
  • 3 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $135
  • Ancient Ruins Tour - Guided Arizona Desert Tour by UTV: $150
  • Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour: $160
  • Apache Trail w/Dolly Steamboat Full Day Small Group Tour: $169

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Phoenix $17
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Phoenix Bar Crawl: $15
  • Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix: $70
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $70
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $189
  • Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix: $200


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Phoenix and Roswell, New Mexico, we can see that Phoenix 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 Phoenix would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phoenix 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 Phoenix Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Roswell, New Mexico?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix 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.