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

Should you visit Williamsburg or El Paso?

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 Williamsburg and El Paso. 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.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a charming, quaint, and well-preserved town. Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Williamsburg travel costs.

El Paso

El Paso is a undiscovered, laid-back, and low-key city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See El Paso travel costs.

Williamsburg and El Paso: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Williamsburg or El Paso?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Williamsburg than El Paso, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Williamsburg is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while El Paso is more popular for its nightlife. Williamsburg is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Also, Williamsburg is famous for Colonial Williamsburg. El Paso is well known for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Williamsburg different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Williamsburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Williamsburg or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

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 Williamsburg or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Williamsburg
El Paso

El Paso is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Williamsburg or El Paso Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, El Paso does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Williamsburg offers plenty to see. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

El Paso does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or El Paso?

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg is a very popular place for shopping. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg or El Paso More Beautiful?

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.

Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Williamsburg or El Paso Better for Families?

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is one of the most popular family destinations. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg or El Paso Better for Couples?

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg is a very popular place for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Williamsburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

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 Williamsburg or El Paso Better for Students?

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, El Paso is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Williamsburg. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

El Paso is not popular with students.

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

Williamsburg
El Paso

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Williamsburg and El Paso.

Public transit is generally limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Public transit is mostly 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 Williamsburg or El Paso a more walkable city?

Williamsburg
El Paso

Williamsburg and El Paso both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Williamsburg is generally not very walkable. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Williamsburg or El Paso to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Williamsburg than El Paso because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Williamsburg, and 1-2 days is enough time in El Paso.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Williamsburg or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Williamsburg 2-4 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Williamsburg or El Paso?

In Williamsburg, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In El Paso, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this undiscovered city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Williamsburg or El Paso?

In Williamsburg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Williamsburg has to offer.

El Paso is a fun place to experience. 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 Williamsburg or El Paso?

Williamsburg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the low-key destination of El Paso. 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 Williamsburg or El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Williamsburg. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Williamsburg. 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.

El Paso is a popular place to visit. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, El Paso or Williamsburg?

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

  • Williamsburg Prices
    USA Prices
    El Paso Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Williamsburg $135
    El Paso $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Williamsburg is $135, 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 Williamsburg and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Williamsburg $66
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Williamsburg $132
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Williamsburg and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg


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: Williamsburg Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Williamsburg $11
    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 - Arrival Private Transfer : $67
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into Williamsburg or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso and Williamsburg 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
    Williamsburg $54
    El Paso $93

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Williamsburg $34
    El Paso $27

Tours and Activities in Williamsburg

Here are a few actual costs in Williamsburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Stories and Walking Tour: $25
  • 1 Hour Christmastide Walking Tour in Virginia Past and Present : $25
  • 2-Hour Private Guided The best of Williamsburg Walking Tour: $250
  • Busch Gardens Williamsburg Admission Ticket: $82
  • Civil War Ghost Tour: $25
  • Colonial Contradictions Self Guided Walking Tour of Williamsburg: $9.99
  • Colonial Ghosts: Ghostly Whispers of Williamsburg Ghost Tour: $26
  • Colonial Ghosts: Ghostly Whispers of Williamsburg Ghost Tour: $26
  • Colonial History Tour in Williamsburg Virginia: $25
  • Colonial Williamsburg Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Colonial Christmas Walking Tour: $25
  • Colonial Colonial History Guided Walking Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in El Paso

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Williamsburg -
    El Paso $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Williamsburg

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

  • Williamsburg Ghosts and Brews Haunted Pub Crawls: $29
  • Colonial Ghosts Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl: $48


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

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


Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg 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.