A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Albuquerque for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Albuquerque?

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 Clearwater and Albuquerque. 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a outdoorsy, desert, and historic town. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Clearwater and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Both Albuquerque and Clearwater have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Clearwater is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Albuquerque is known for its historical sights, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Clearwater is more touristy than Albuquerque and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Albuquerque is popular for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Clearwater different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Both Clearwater and Albuquerque have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.


Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Albuquerque? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Albuquerque both to be excellent destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Albuquerque has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Albuquerque.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its luxury resorts. However, Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Albuquerque is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Clearwater is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Clearwater is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Albuquerque is revered around the world. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

Clearwater does not have a historic old town.


Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Albuquerque offers some nice hiking trails. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is notable for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Albuquerque is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly destination. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.


Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Clearwater and Albuquerque both excellent destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Albuquerque makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a good destination for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Albuquerque is a good town to visit for students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

Is Clearwater or Albuquerque Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Both Clearwater and Albuquerque offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.


Is Clearwater or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Albuquerque

Clearwater and Albuquerque both are good when exploring on foot.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either Clearwater or Albuquerque. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Clearwater due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-4 days is enough time in Albuquerque.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albuquerque than Clearwater 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 Albuquerque.


  • How many days in Clearwater or Albuquerque? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Albuquerque 2-4

One day in Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled coastal city of Clearwater. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With museums and nightlife around the historic town of Albuquerque, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Clearwater. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Albuquerque, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxing coastal city of Clearwater. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Albuquerque, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Clearwater. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Albuquerque is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Albuquerque or Clearwater?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $309, while the average daily cost in Albuquerque is $135. 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 Clearwater and Albuquerque in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Albuquerque $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Albuquerque $138
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Albuquerque

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Albuquerque? 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 Clearwater


Hotels in Albuquerque


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: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Albuquerque $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $128
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $102
  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100
  • St Petersburg to Tampa Airport (TPA) -Departure Private Transfer: $88
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $40
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $79
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Private Transfer: $127
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Pagosa Springs Private Transfer: $176
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Round-Trip Transfer: $253

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Prices for flights to both Albuquerque and Clearwater 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
    Clearwater $46
    Albuquerque $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Albuquerque $24

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Donuts and Dolphins Cruise in Florida: $34
  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • 1.5 Hour Tiki Tour with Open Bar in Clearwater Beach: $49
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour of Downtown St Pete: $59
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $49
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg: $67
  • 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry: $67
  • 90 Minute Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Clearwater at Hatchet Hangout: $50
  • All Day Fishing Experience from John's Pass in Madeira Beach, FL - 10 Hours: $160
  • Amazing Helicopter Tour of Treasure Island, John's Pass, Don CeSar Resort & Bay: $126
  • Bay Area Info Tours- Tours of Pinellas in a Luxury Mini Van: $100

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour by App: $6.50
  • Historic Old Town Albuquerque smart phone App/Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Albuquerque by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Albuquerque by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • The Turquoise Museum Curator's Tour: $20
  • Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket: $20
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Old Town Hauntings of the West Ghost Tour: $33
  • The Ghost Tour of Old Town - New Mexico's oldest Ghost Walk - Since 2001: $35
  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Albuquerque $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $20


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Clearwater Expensive? and Is Albuquerque Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Albuquerque, 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.