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

Should you visit Asheville 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 Asheville 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.

Asheville

Asheville is a outdoorsy, progressive, and open-minded mountain town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and hiking.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a mysterious, infamous, and quirky town. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Asheville and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Asheville than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Asheville is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Roswell, New Mexico is more popular for its museums. Asheville is well known for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. Also, Asheville is famous for The Biltmore Estate. Roswell, New Mexico is well known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville 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.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Dining out at restaurants in both Asheville and Roswell, New Mexico can be an enjoyable experience.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Asheville. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Roswell, New Mexico is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Asheville has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

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 Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Music?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Asheville while you're in town. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.


Is Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

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

With a selection of resorts, Asheville makes a nice vacation spot. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for its Old Town?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville is a decent place to visit for its old town. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

You can check out the historic old town in Asheville. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville 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 Asheville. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.


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

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Asheville is well-known for its shopping. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

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 Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Christmas?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Asheville is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville is a decent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville has some Christmas markets worth visiting during the holidays. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville 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, Asheville is very family-friendly. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

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 Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Asheville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

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

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

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 Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Many students visit Asheville. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

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

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Asheville and Roswell, New Mexico.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

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

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

Asheville
Roswell, New Mexico

Asheville and Roswell, New Mexico both are notable when exploring on foot.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

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


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

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

How long in Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Asheville 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 Asheville, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

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

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


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

One day in Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Asheville, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Roswell, New Mexico. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Roswell, New Mexico has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Asheville for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Asheville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and food around the infamous destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Asheville offers food and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the infamous town of Roswell, New Mexico. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Asheville. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This mountain town 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 popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


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

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Asheville is $133, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico is $117. 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 Asheville and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Asheville $89
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Asheville $178
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Asheville and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Asheville 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 Asheville


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Asheville $14
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Asheville 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
    Asheville $33
    Roswell, New Mexico $44
Typical Food Prices in Asheville

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Asheville:


  • Biltmore Estate Entrance Fee
    $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Asheville

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Asheville.

  • 1-HR cooking class: $40
  • Electric Bike Tour of Asheville's Best Pizza: $98
  • Best Pizza E-bike Tour: $111

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Asheville $16
    Roswell, New Mexico $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Asheville

Here are a few typical costs in Asheville for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Massage
    $40

Tours and Activities in Asheville

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

  • (3 HR) Guided Safari Jeep Mile-High & Waterfall Adventure: $100
  • (3 HR) Off-Road UTV Wilderness Adventure : $175
  • (4 HR) UTV Sunset, Waterfall, and Eco Elk Wilderness Adventure : $275
  • 2.5-Hour Blue Ridge Parkway Guided Jeep Tour: $99
  • 4 Hour Guided Safari Jeep Eco ELK Wilderness Adventure : $144
  • Amazing Asheville Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • An afternoon with the artist, private art gallery tour: $60
  • Asheville Coffee Tours: $65
  • Asheville Ghost Tour: A Walk Through Riverside Cemetery & Montford Neighborhood: $27
  • Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views: $75
  • Asheville Historic Highlights: Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Asheville $16
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Asheville

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

  • Skip the Line: Copper Barrel's Premium Distillery Tour & Tasting: $10
  • Terrors, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ultimate Late Night Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $39
  • Expert-Led Brewery Walking Tour with Beer Samples: $65
  • Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour: $69
  • Premier Walking Guided Brewery Tour Through Downtown Asheville: $69
  • Electric Bike Brewery Crawl of Asheville: $74
  • Premier Mobile Guided Brewery Tour Around Asheville: $99
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $99
  • Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Asheville and Roswell, New Mexico, we can see that Asheville 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 Asheville Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Asheville or Roswell, New Mexico?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 56% larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Asheville 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.