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

Should you visit Vail or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Should I visit Vail 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.

Vail

Vail is a picturesque, scenic, and vibrant ski town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of Vail is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Vail 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.

Vail and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vail than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vail is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Roswell, New Mexico is more popular for its museums and attractions. Vail is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. Also, Vail is famous for The Vail Ski Resort. Roswell, New Mexico is well known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

Is Vail or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Skiing?

Vail is very popular for skiing and snowboarding. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a skiing destination.

Vail is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a skiing destination.

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have 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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Vail and Roswell, New Mexico offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Vail has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

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 Vail or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Vail is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Vail has a large number of nightlife venues. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Music?

Vail is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

Is Vail or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Vail is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Vail to choose from. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

Is Vail or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Vail 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 Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

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

Vail is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Vail is well-known for its shopping. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail or Roswell, New Mexico More Beautiful?

Vail 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 Vail is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is a beautiful town that has stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

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

Is Vail or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Vail 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, Vail is very family-friendly. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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 Vail or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Vail is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Vail is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vail is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Vail. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Vail is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Vail has some public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

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

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

Vail is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vail. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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

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

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

How long in Vail or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Vail or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Vail than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Vail, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

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

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

One day in Vail or Roswell, New Mexico?

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the skiing. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Vail or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Vail for a weekend. Lots of people come for the skiing. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Roswell, New Mexico is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Vail or Roswell, New Mexico?

Even though Vail is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vail, five days is sufficent for most.

You'll find museums and food around the quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Vail or Roswell, New Mexico?

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This ski town offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vail has to offer.

The mysterious town of Roswell, New Mexico offers food and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Vail or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Vail 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.