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

Should you visit Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico? 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a laid-back, easy-going, and low-key city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

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.

Tampa and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tampa. Although Tampa and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Tampa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tampa is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Roswell, New Mexico is known for its museums and attractions and shopping. Roswell, New Mexico is more touristy than Tampa and is known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash. Tampa is popular for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also home to Busch Gardens.

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

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

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Roswell, New Mexico can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Roswell, New Mexico offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Tampa 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 Tampa. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

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

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Tampa 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 Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

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


Is Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Tampa is a very popular place for the beach. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Tampa for it's beautiful beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

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

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Tampa 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, Tampa is very family-friendly. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

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 Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Neither Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico is generally regarded as a top spot for a couple to visit.

Tampa is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Roswell, New Mexico is not the best destination for a couple to visit. 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 Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

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

Tampa
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.


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

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

How long in Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico than Tampa 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 Roswell, New Mexico.


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

One day in Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Tampa, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

In Roswell, New Mexico, many people enjoy the food and museums that this quirky destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Tampa for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tampa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Tampa offers food. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Roswell, New Mexico is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


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

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

  • Tampa Prices
    USA Prices
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tampa $218
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $218, 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 Tampa and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Private Transfer to/from Tampa Airport (TPA): $76
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $50
  • Tampa hotel or address to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $84
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $167
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $60
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $167
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $60
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $119
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Arrival Private Transfer: $60
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach- Arrival Private Transfer: $118
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $119

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Tampa 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
    Tampa $92
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Ybor City Food Tour with 5 Local Delicacies Tastings: $100
  • Tampa Food Tour with 5 Tastings of Local Favourites Classics: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $79
  • 3 hour E.G. Simmons Park Mangrove Tunnel Tour: $64
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $41
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $63
  • Clear Kayaking Glow Tour in Tampa Riverwalk: $74
  • Discover Tampa with Local Stories from a Virtual Tour: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Private Evening Cruise for up to 12ppl: $510
  • Escape to Paradise: Private Island Boat Adventure in Tampa: $630
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tampa:

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Terrors: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Historic Ybor: $40
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on New Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Elevated Wine Tasting Experience in Historic Ybor: $60
  • Downtown 3-Hour Food and Wine Tour: $145
  • Tampa's Top Dive Bar Tour Experience by Golf Cart: $275


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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Roswell, New Mexico?

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