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

Should you visit Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs and Roswell, New Mexico can help you decide which place is right for you.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and museums.

Roswell, New Mexico

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

Colorado Springs and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Colorado Springs. Although Colorado Springs and Roswell, New Mexico are popular destinations, Colorado Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Colorado Springs is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Roswell, New Mexico attracts visitors for its shopping. Roswell, New Mexico is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash. Colorado Springs is famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. It is also well known for Pikes Peak.

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

Is Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Colorado Springs is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a skiing destination.

Colorado Springs is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Both Colorado Springs and Roswell, New Mexico have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Colorado Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people visit this area for the outdoor recreation, not the museums, but in town you'll find the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum, the Peterson Air and Space Museum, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The U.S. Olympic Complex Training Center is also a unique place to visit and well worth some time.

Roswell, New Mexico offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Colorado Springs and Roswell, New Mexico.

Colorado Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

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 Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Colorado Springs is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Colorado Springs. The town has a number of breweries and a great craft beer selection. There are local bars along Tejon Street, or head through Downtown Colorado Springs for some of the most active nightlife.

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 Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Colorado Springs is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Colorado Springs is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are both world-famous hiking areas, as well as lesser known hikes that the locals often prefer. Some of the more famous places include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. For families, check out Seven Bridges Trail or Mount Muscoco Trail. Loud's Cabin is a longer trail that also includes Seven Bridges Trail.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with a few options for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Colorado Springs is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Colorado Springs is very family-friendly. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

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 Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Colorado Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking and exploring nature together will love visiting this town and the areas nearby. There are many hiking trails in easy reach of the town. Hot air balloon rides are also popular and offer an amazing view over the beautiful landscape.

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 Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Colorado Springs. Just outside of town you'll find campgrounds with all of the amenities that you might need. In town, there's also a hostel and several affordable accommodation options.

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 Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Colorado Springs is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Colorado Springs. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.


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

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Colorado Springs. While there are buses, many people come to the area to visit Pikes Peak or several of the other nearby parks, all of which require a car.

Is Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is very good for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable mountain town. While the downtown area is walkable, you'll really want to have a car so you can explore the areas outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs.


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

One day in Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Colorado Springs, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and food around the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Colorado Springs for a weekend. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Colorado Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and museums around the mysterious town of Roswell, New Mexico. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

The beautiful destination of Colorado Springs offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Colorado Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This mountain 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Colorado Springs?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Colorado Springs is $155, 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 Colorado Springs and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Colorado Springs $81
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Colorado Springs $162
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Colorado Springs and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs


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: Colorado Springs Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Colorado Springs $38
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Winter Park to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Eagle County Reg. Airport - Departure Transfer: $131
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Centennial Airport - Departure Transfer: $294
  • Snowmass/Aspen to Denver Airport DEN - Departure Private Transfer: $294
  • Snowmass Ski Resort to BJC Airport - Departure Transfer: $294
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport to Snowmass -Arrival Transfer: $294
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan (BJC) to Steamboat-Arrival Transfer: $229
  • Private Transfer from Beaver Creek Ski Resort to Denver Airport: $218
  • Keystone resort to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $174
  • Denver Centennial Airport to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Transfer: $294
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Round Trip Transfer: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Colorado Springs 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
    Colorado Springs $45
    Roswell, New Mexico $44
Typical Food Prices in Colorado Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Colorado Springs:


  • Cold Stone Ice Cream (family of 4)
    $22
  • Snacks at the Zoo (family of 4)
    $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Colorado Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Colorado Springs.

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show - Colorado Springs, CO: $86
  • Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Colorado Springs $34
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

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

  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour In Garden Of The Gods: $106
  • 1-Hour Broadmoor History Segway Tour: $72
  • 1-Hour Segway Tour of Cheyenne Cañon Art, History and Nature: $72
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour in Cheyenne Cañon and Broadmoor Area: $108
  • Bike Tour in the Garden of The Gods: $245
  • Broadmoor Hotel History Segway Tour: $78
  • Cheyenne Cañon Art and Nature Segway Tour: $78
  • Cocktails & Tastes Tour in Colorado Springs: $89
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Luxury Jeep Tours: $119
  • Colorado Springs Puzzling Adventure: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Colorado Springs $24
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Colorado Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Colorado Springs:

  • 2.5-Hour Brewery & Bites Walking Tour: $84
  • Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour: $89
  • Driving Brewery Tour of Colorado Springs: $115


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


Which is Bigger, Colorado Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Colorado Springs 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.