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

Should you visit Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Roswell, New Mexico and Hilo. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

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.

Hilo

Hilo is a laid back, mellow, and friendly town. The beauty of Hilo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and museums. See Hilo travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico and Hilo: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hilo. Although Roswell, New Mexico and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Hilo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hilo is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also home to Akaka Falls State Park. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Roswell, New Mexico different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Roswell, New Mexico and Hilo.

Roswell, New Mexico offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hilo. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

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

Hilo 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.

Hilo has a huge number of terrific restaurants. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Hilo is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hilo. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo 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, Hilo offers a few options. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a good destination for the beach. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Hilo offers a nice beach destination. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo Better for Hiking?

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

Hilo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

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

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Roswell, New Mexico has some nice offerings. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Hilo has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Hilo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo Better for Families?

Hilo 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, Hilo is very family-friendly. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Hilo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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

Hilo is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Roswell, New Mexico and Hilo.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

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

Roswell, New Mexico and Hilo are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Hilo is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

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

How long in Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo?

Both Roswell, New Mexico and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Roswell, New Mexico. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Roswell, New Mexico, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

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

One day in Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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.

A weekend in Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo?

Roswell, New Mexico is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Hilo for a weekend. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo?

You'll find museums and food around the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the food and museums that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilo, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo?

The mysterious town of Roswell, New Mexico offers food and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this authentic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This town offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilo has to offer.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Roswell, New Mexico or Hilo?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of Roswell, New Mexico and Hilo, 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.