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

Should you visit Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Big Sur and Roswell, New Mexico can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Big Sur and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Sur. Although Big Sur and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Big Sur has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Sur is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Roswell, New Mexico is known for its museums and shopping. Big Sur is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. It is also home to Bixby Bridge. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

Roswell, New Mexico is very good for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. 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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

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

Big Sur is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Roswell, New Mexico offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Neither Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Big Sur There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

People don't go to Roswell, New Mexico for the nightlife. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is a very popular place for the beache. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Big Sur for it's beautiful beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Big Sur 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 Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico.

Big Sur offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Roswell, New Mexico is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

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

Big Sur is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

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

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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

Roswell, New Mexico is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Roswell, New Mexico is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Big Sur is not a walkable natural area. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

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

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

How long in Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Sur 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 Big Sur.

One day in Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Roswell, New Mexico, you'll find food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Big Sur 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 Big Sur, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Roswell, New Mexico, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Roswell, New Mexico has to offer.

Five days in Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico?

The beautiful destination of Big Sur offers food. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Big Sur or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Big Sur. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This natural area 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Roswell, New Mexico. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Big Sur Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.