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

Should you visit Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a flashy, party-oriented, and colorful city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a quirky, mysterious, and infamous town. It's also known for food and museums.

Atlantic City and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Atlantic City. Although Atlantic City and Roswell, New Mexico are popular destinations, Atlantic City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Atlantic City is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Roswell, New Mexico attracts visitors for its museums. Atlantic City is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality It is also well known for Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Roswell, New Mexico is famous for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Atlantic City 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 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

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 Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and Roswell, New Mexico both to be nice 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.

Roswell, New Mexico has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Atlantic City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

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 Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

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

There are plenty of resorts in Atlantic City to choose from. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

Atlantic City is a good destination for the beache. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Atlantic City offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

Atlantic City is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. 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.

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 Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico 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 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.

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 Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

Atlantic City is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

Atlantic City 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.

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 Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.


Is Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Roswell, New Mexico

Atlantic City is a very popular place 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.

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

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

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

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

How long in Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Atlantic City than Roswell, New Mexico 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 Roswell, New Mexico.

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

Couples should spend more time in Atlantic City than Roswell, New Mexico. 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 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 Atlantic City.


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

One day in Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Atlantic City, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the infamous destination of Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Atlantic City for a weekend. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlantic City, 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. 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Atlantic City offers food and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 town of Roswell, New Mexico. 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, Roswell, New Mexico 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 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 Atlantic City and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City


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: Atlantic City Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

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: $22
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlantic City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Atlantic City:

  • Little Water Distillery Spirit Tasting: $15


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


Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City 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.

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