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

Should you visit Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico?

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 Sarasota and Roswell, New Mexico. 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a relaxing, entertaining, and underrated city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Sarasota travel costs.

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.

Sarasota and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sarasota than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sarasota is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Also, Sarasota is famous for the John and Mable Ringling Museum. Roswell, New Mexico is well known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

Sarasota is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sarasota. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Sarasota and Roswell, New Mexico.

Sarasota has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

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 Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

Sarasota is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Sarasota makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Sarasota offers a nice beach destination. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

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

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

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 Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Sarasota is very family-friendly. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

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 Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Sarasota makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

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

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

Sarasota and Roswell, New Mexico both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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

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

Sarasota
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.


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

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

How long in Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Sarasota than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sarasota 2-5 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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.

The town of Roswell, New Mexico offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Roswell, New Mexico, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sarasota, five days is sufficent for most.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


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

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

  • Sarasota Prices
    USA Prices
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sarasota $350
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $350, 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 Sarasota and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota 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 Sarasota


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

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

  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $55
  • Sarasota Airport(SRQ) to Anna Maria island hotel-Arrival Transfer: $125
  • Sarasota Airport (SRQ) to Anna Maria island - Round-Trip Transfer: $251

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $238
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Anna Maria Island - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour : $65
  • Parasailing Adventure above the Gulf of Mexico: $95
  • Sarasota Waterways Tour for All Ages: $60
  • 3-Hour Clear Kayak Beach Hopping Adventure in Sarasota: $65
  • Amish Experience Trolley Tour: Bridges to Understanding: $80
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure : $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
  • Christmas Carol Trolley Holiday Music & Lights Tour in Sarasota: $77
  • City Sightseeing Trolley Tour of Sarasota: $73
  • Clear Kayak Ecotour at Robinson Preserve in Bradenton, Florida : $73
  • Clear Kayak Glass Bottom Day Tour - Anna Maria Island: $65
  • Clear Kayak Glass Bottom Day Tour - Sarasota: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sarasota -
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29


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


Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Roswell, New Mexico?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota 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.