A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Albuquerque for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Albuquerque? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a outdoorsy, desert, and historic town. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Albuquerque travel costs.

Saint Simons and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Albuquerque. Although Saint Simons and Albuquerque are both popular with visitors, Albuquerque has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Albuquerque is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint Simons is known for its resorts, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is more touristy than Albuquerque and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Albuquerque is popular for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is Saint Simons different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Albuquerque and Saint Simons. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Albuquerque? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Albuquerque can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Albuquerque has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Albuquerque has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Saint Simons is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Albuquerque is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Saint Simons is a great island for its beaches. However, Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint Simons for it's beautiful beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Albuquerque offers plenty to see. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

If you're looking to go hiking, Saint Simons and Albuquerque both have good trails.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Many people include a hike when visiting Albuquerque. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Shopping is a popular activity in both Albuquerque and Saint Simons.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Albuquerque is well-known for its shopping. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque More Beautiful?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Saint Simons is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Albuquerque is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Albuquerque is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Saint Simons is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.


Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Albuquerque make for a superb place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Albuquerque is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a popular place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Albuquerque is popular with students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.


Is Saint Simons or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Albuquerque

Saint Simons and Albuquerque both are good when exploring on foot.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Simons or Albuquerque. In our opinion, Albuquerque has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Albuquerque than Saint Simons. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Albuquerque than Saint Simons. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Albuquerque that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albuquerque than Saint Simons 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 Albuquerque.


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Albuquerque? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Albuquerque 2-4

One day in Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Albuquerque, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this desert town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Albuquerque is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Because Saint Simons is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the desert destination of Albuquerque. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Albuquerque is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Albuquerque or Saint Simons?

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

  • Saint Simons Prices
    USA Prices
    Albuquerque Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Simons $211
    Albuquerque $165

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, while the average daily cost in Albuquerque is $165. 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 Saint Simons and Albuquerque in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Albuquerque $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Albuquerque $138
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Albuquerque

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Albuquerque? 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 Saint Simons


Hotels in Albuquerque


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Albuquerque $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $45
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Albuquerque International Sunport Private Transfer: $196
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Balloon Fiesta Albuquerque 2024 transfers: $625
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Prices for flights to both Albuquerque and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $83
    Albuquerque $71

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

  • Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show - Albuquerque, NM: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Albuquerque $24

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • Historic Old Town Albuquerque smart phone App/Audio Walking Tour: $7.95
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Albuquerque by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Albuquerque by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket: $20
  • Albuquerque Desert Shadows Rising Ghost Tour: $24
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Albuquerque Desert Shadows Rising Ghost Tour: $26
  • 12pm Old Town History, Legends & Lore Tour: $32
  • The Ghost Tour of Old Town - New Mexico's oldest Ghost Walk - Since 2001: $32
  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • 10pm Late Night RATED "R" Ghost Tour Ages 18+: $38
  • Duke City Pedaler: Beverage Tour to Old Town/Sawmill Albuquerque : $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Albuquerque $20


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Albuquerque Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Albuquerque, 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.