A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. El Paso for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a flashy, party-oriented, and colorful city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

El Paso

El Paso is a laid-back, low-key, and undiscovered city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Atlantic City and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or El Paso?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlantic City. Although Atlantic City and El Paso are both popular with visitors, Atlantic City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Atlantic City is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while El Paso is known for its museums. Atlantic City is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality It is also home to Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. El Paso is popular for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Atlantic City different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Atlantic City
El Paso

El Paso is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

El Paso is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.


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

Atlantic City
El Paso

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and El Paso both to be good destinations.

Atlantic City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

El Paso has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Atlantic City or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
El Paso

Atlantic City is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Atlantic City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

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.

Is Atlantic City or El Paso Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
El Paso

Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is Atlantic City or El Paso Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
El Paso

Atlantic City is very good for its beaches. However, El Paso is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Atlantic City to enjoy the beach. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

El Paso is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or El Paso?

Atlantic City
El Paso

Shopping is a popular activity in both El Paso and Atlantic City.

Atlantic City is a great destination for shopping. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting El Paso. 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 Atlantic City or El Paso Better for Families?

Atlantic City
El Paso

El Paso is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.


Is Atlantic City or El Paso Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
El Paso

Atlantic City is very good for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Atlantic City is a nice destination for couples. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

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 Atlantic City or El Paso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City
El Paso

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

Atlantic City is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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

Atlantic City
El Paso

Atlantic City is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Atlantic City has some public transit options. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

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 Atlantic City or El Paso a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
El Paso

Atlantic City is a very popular place for its walkability. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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

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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or El Paso?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City.


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

One day in Atlantic City or El Paso?

In Atlantic City, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the undiscovered destination of El Paso. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Atlantic City or El Paso?

In Atlantic City, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atlantic City has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in El Paso. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in Atlantic City or El Paso?

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back destination of El Paso. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Atlantic City or El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Atlantic City. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of El Paso. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, El Paso or Atlantic City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $154, while the average daily cost in El Paso is $161. 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 Atlantic City and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City


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: Atlantic City Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $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: $120
  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $240
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso and Atlantic City 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
    Atlantic City $50
    El Paso $54

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.
    Atlantic City $44
    El Paso $27

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

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

  • 75-Minute Ocean Parasailing Adventure Above Ocean City, MD: $70
  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $27
  • Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket: $10
  • Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise Adventure: $53
  • Morning or Afternoon Skyline Ocean Cruise: $27
  • Parasailing Experience: $95
  • Quiet Bay Cruise With Happy Hour Options: $27
  • Sunset Party Cruise with DJ: $33
  • Bay Hopper Breakfast Sandwich Cruise: $35
  • Downtown/Boardwalk Foodie Tour: $119
  • Midtown Dining District Foodie Tour: $110
  • OC Bay Hopper - Assateague Island Cruise (Departs 118th): $45

Tours and Activities in El Paso

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

  • Sun City Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Sun City Ghosts Haunted Cowboys and Outlaws Tour: $30
  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $115
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $120
  • Jeep Tour - Pikes Peak or Bust: $175
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $249

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    El Paso $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlantic City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Atlantic City:

  • Little Water Distillery Spirit Tasting: $15


When comparing the travel costs between Atlantic City and El Paso, we can see that El Paso 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 Atlantic City Expensive? and Is El Paso Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City 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.