A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sedona vs. El Paso for Couples, Food, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Sedona or El Paso?

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

Should I visit Sedona or El Paso? 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.

Sedona

Sedona is a dramatic, scenic, and striking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Sedona is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Sedona travel costs.

El Paso

El Paso is a low-key, undiscovered, and laid-back city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See El Paso travel costs.

Sedona and El Paso: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Sedona or El Paso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sedona. Although Sedona and El Paso are popular destinations, Sedona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sedona is more touristy than El Paso and is known for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. It is also well known for Red Rock Crossing Park. El Paso is famous for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Sedona different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sedona or El Paso?

Sedona
El Paso

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Sedona and El Paso.

Sedona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around El Paso. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.


Is the Food Better in Sedona or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sedona. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in El Paso. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Sedona or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Sedona
El Paso

The vibe at night is nice in both Sedona and El Paso.

If you're looking for night time activities Sedona has a few options to choose from. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in El Paso. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is Sedona or El Paso Better for Resorts?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sedona. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is Sedona or El Paso Better for its Old Town?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is very good for its historic old town. However, El Paso does not have a historic old town.

Sedona is a good destination for visiting its old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

El Paso does not have a historic old town.

Is Sedona or El Paso Better for Hiking?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sedona or El Paso?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Sedona. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

El Paso offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.


Is Sedona or El Paso More Beautiful?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.

Sedona is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sedona or El Paso Better for Families?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Sedona is a very family-friendly destination. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is Sedona or El Paso Better for Couples?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is an unbeatable place for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Sedona has plenty to offer. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.


Is Sedona or El Paso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Sedona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

El Paso is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's little in the area that appeals to backpackers.

Is Sedona or El Paso Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona and El Paso both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Public transit is generally limited in El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

Is Sedona or El Paso a more walkable city?

Sedona
El Paso

Sedona is very good for its walkability. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Sedona is somewhat walkable. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

El Paso is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around town.


For even more information, also check out Is Sedona Worth Visiting? and Is El Paso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Sedona?

How long in Sedona or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Sedona or El Paso to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Sedona than El Paso because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Sedona, and 1-2 days is enough time in El Paso.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sedona than El Paso. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sedona that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sedona than El Paso 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 Sedona.


  • How many days in Sedona or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sedona 3-5 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Sedona or El Paso?

Sedona is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of El Paso. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Sedona or El Paso?

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

El Paso is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Sedona or El Paso?

Sedona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sedona has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in El Paso. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Sedona or El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sedona. Since Sedona is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of El Paso. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see 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, El Paso or Sedona?

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

  • Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
    El Paso Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sedona $200
    El Paso $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Sedona is $200, while the average daily cost in El Paso is $200. 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 Sedona and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sedona $93
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sedona $186
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Sedona and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Sedona or El Paso? 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 Sedona


Hotels in El Paso


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: Sedona Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sedona $40
    El Paso $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

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

  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $293
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • Round Trip Transfer to Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta: $100
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $67
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into Sedona or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso and Sedona 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
    Sedona $83
    El Paso $93

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

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

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $135
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in El Paso

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

  • Organ Mountains Sunset Dinner Trip: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sedona $19
    El Paso $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

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

  • Sedona's Best Private Vortex Tour: $199
  • 2 Hours Private Spiritual Healing Tour in the Nature of Sedona: $200
  • 2.5-Hour Sedona Sightseeing Tour with Sedona Hotel Pickup: $76
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Arizona Ghost Adventure: $150
  • Arizona Winery All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch & Tastings: $199
  • Best E-Bike Tour of Sedona with Private Local Guide: $140
  • Best UFO Tour of Sedona: $110
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $85
  • Diamondback Gulch 4x4 Open-Air Jeep Tour in Sedona: $136
  • Everything Sedona (20+ Mile) - Sedona Helicopter Tour: $186

Tours and Activities in El Paso

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

  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $130
  • El Paso Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $102
  • Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour: $190
  • Private Downtown City Sightseeing Tour of Juarez Mexico: $120
  • Texas and New Mexico Bundle 4 day Self Guided National Park Tours: $40
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $275
  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $26
  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sedona $13
    El Paso $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Experience E-Bike with Wine Tasting Activity: $126
  • Wine Tasting With A Touch of Sedona Magic: $159
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • Grape Train Escape: Wine Tasting and Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure: $208
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Cheapest Private Wine Tour in town!: $210
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $250
  • Private Wine Tour, Voted best in town, Tastings Included!: $285


When comparing the travel costs between Sedona and El Paso, we can see that Sedona is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Sedona or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Sedona and El Paso, 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.