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

Should you visit Denver 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 Denver 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.

Denver

Denver is a park-filled, suburban, and accessible city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a mysterious, infamous, and quirky town. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Denver and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Denver than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Denver is better known for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Roswell, New Mexico is more popular for its museums and food. Roswell, New Mexico is more touristy than Denver and is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash. Denver is well known for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area. Also, Denver is famous for Red Rocks Park.

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

Is Denver or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Skiing?

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Denver is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Denver is a great destination to visit. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a skiing destination.


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

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

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

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Roswell, New Mexico. 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.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Denver or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Denver 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 Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.

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 Denver or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Denver is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Denver offers some nice hiking trails. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Denver or Roswell, New Mexico?

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Denver 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 Denver. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

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 Denver or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Denver and Roswell, New Mexico are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Denver is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Roswell, New Mexico is a family-friendly city. 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 Denver or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Denver makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

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 Denver or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Plenty of students visit Denver. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

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

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Denver 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.

Denver has some public transit options. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

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


Is Denver or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Denver
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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

Denver is not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.

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

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

How long in Denver or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denver 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 Denver.


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

One day in Denver or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Denver, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this destination offers. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Roswell, New Mexico. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Denver or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Denver for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Denver, 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. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Denver or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Denver offers nightlife and shopping. 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. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Denver or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Denver. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Denver?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Denver is $218, 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 Denver and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Denver $87
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Denver $174
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Denver and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Denver 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 Denver


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: Denver Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Denver $101
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Round trip transfer in Private Car from-to Denver Int. Airport (DEN) to Downtown: $144
  • Private Transfer from Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Luxury Van: $135
  • Private Transfer from Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Business Car: $107
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Denver International Airport: $125
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury Van: $135
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury SUV: $135
  • Denver hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $50
  • Denver Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper - Arrival Transfer: $195
  • Denver Airport Transfer To/From Aspen for 6-14 Sprinter Van: $1,950
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $92
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $252
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Winter Park - Arrival Private Transfer: $130

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Denver 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
    Denver $42
    Roswell, New Mexico $44
Typical Food Prices in Denver

Some typical examples of dining costs in Denver are as follows:


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

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

  • RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $79
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $79
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Denver $52
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Denver

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

  • Shared Golden's History Wagon Ride Tour in Colorado: $65
  • Small-Group Cocktail Tour in Denver: $99
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour LoDo Historic Walking Tour in Denver: $28
  • 3 Hour Private Walking Tour in Denver with Professional Guide: $227
  • Archery Dodgeball - 75 Minute Indoor Experience: $31
  • Beginner Rock Climbing Tour: $200
  • Best of Denver Tour: $64
  • Best of Denver Tour: $30
  • Bicycle Tour of Downtown Denver.: $93
  • Bike and Brew Tour: $98
  • Breckenridge Ultimate Full Day Mountain Tour from Denver: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Denver $5.31
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

Also in Denver, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Vintner's Personalized Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert : $74
  • Denver Pedicab Brewery Tour: $130


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


Which is Bigger, Denver or Roswell, New Mexico?

Denver has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Denver 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.