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

Should you visit Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River?

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 Hood River. 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 mysterious, infamous, and quirky town. Visitors also love the food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

Hood River

Hood River is a agricultural, quaint, and scenic town. The beauty of Hood River is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Hood River travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hood River than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hood River is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Roswell, New Mexico is more popular for its museums and attractions. Hood River is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. Also, Hood River is famous for Multnomah Falls. Roswell, New Mexico is well known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Roswell, New Mexico different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Hood River is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Hood River is a great destination to visit. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a skiing destination.


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

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

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

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Hood River 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.

Hood River has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

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 Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Hood River 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 Hood River. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local 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 Hood River Better for Hiking?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Hood River 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 Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Hood River 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 Hood River. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River More Beautiful?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Hood River 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 Hood River is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.

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


Is Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River Better for Families?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Hood River 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, Hood River is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

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 Hood River Better for Couples?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

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

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

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 Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

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

Many backpackers visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

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 Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Roswell, New Mexico and Hood River.

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 Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River a more walkable city?

Roswell, New Mexico
Hood River

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

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

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

How long in Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Roswell, New Mexico and Hood River. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hood River than in Roswell, New Mexico. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Roswell, New Mexico, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hood River 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 Hood River.


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

One day in Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River?

With museums and food around the infamous town of Roswell, New Mexico, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Roswell, New Mexico, one day is sufficent for most.

In Hood River, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Hood River?

With food and museums around the destination of Roswell, New Mexico, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

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

Five days in Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River?

Roswell, New Mexico, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The beautiful destination of Hood River offers food and shopping. 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. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River?

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Hood River. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Hood River or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

  • Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
    Hood River Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Roswell, New Mexico $148
    Hood River $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Roswell, New Mexico is $148, while the average daily cost in Hood River is $174. 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 Roswell, New Mexico and Hood River in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
    Hood River $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
    Hood River $156
Compare Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico and Hood River

Looking for a hotel in Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River? 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 Roswell, New Mexico


Hotels in Hood River


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: Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices and Hood River Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Roswell, New Mexico $38
    Hood River $46

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

Prices for flights to both Hood River and Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico $76
    Hood River $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Roswell, New Mexico $33
    Hood River $18

Tours and Activities in Hood River

For Hood River, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Columbia Gorge Kayak Tour: $100
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $179

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29
    Hood River $19


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


Which is Bigger, Roswell, New Mexico or Hood River?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Roswell, New Mexico and Hood River, 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.