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

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a wonder-filled, unique, and iconic town. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Roswell, New Mexico

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

Cape Canaveral and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cape Canaveral. Although Cape Canaveral and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Cape Canaveral has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. It is also home to The Kennedy Space Center. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

Cape Canaveral is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cape Canaveral are world-renowned. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

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.


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

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Cape Canaveral is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

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 Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

Cape Canaveral is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cape Canaveral. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

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 Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

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

With a selection of resorts, Cape Canaveral makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

Cape Canaveral is a good destination for the beache. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Cape Canaveral offers a nice beach destination. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico?

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

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 Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

Cape Canaveral is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cape Canaveral is very family-friendly. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

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 Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Cape Canaveral makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

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

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known 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 Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

Is Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

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

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.


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

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

How long in Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral.


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

One day in Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Cape Canaveral, many people enjoy the museums and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 museums and food. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Cape Canaveral for a weekend. Lots of people come for the museums. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Canaveral, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Cape Canaveral offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cape Canaveral. This 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the town of Roswell, New Mexico. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Cape Canaveral?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $220, 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 Cape Canaveral and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral


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: Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

Also for Cape Canaveral, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Round Trip NASA Space Center/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $67
  • Round Trip MCO Orlando Airport/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $170
  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $113
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Windermere: $270
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Sand Lake: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Reunion: $270
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Pointe Orlando: $232
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport: $282
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $282
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Ocoee: $254
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $239

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Cape Canaveral 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
    Cape Canaveral $43
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cape Canaveral

For Cape Canaveral, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Port Canaveral Food Tours : $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Canaveral.

  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $58
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95
  • Self-Guided Kayaking Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $55
  • Two Hour Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $60
  • Victory Cruises Casino Luxury Transportation: $75
  • Wizard of OZ Museum Ticket with Guided Tour by the Owner: $125
  • Wizard of OZ Museum tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29


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


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral 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.