A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Detroit vs. El Paso for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Detroit or El Paso?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or El Paso, 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

El Paso

El Paso is a low-key, undiscovered, and laid-back city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Detroit and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Detroit or El Paso?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit than El Paso. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience. El Paso is famous for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Detroit different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Detroit or El Paso?

Detroit
El Paso

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Detroit and El Paso.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around El Paso. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.


Is the Food Better in Detroit or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Detroit
El Paso

Dining out at restaurants in both Detroit and El Paso can be an enjoyable experience.

Detroit has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the El Paso area. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Detroit or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
El Paso

Detroit is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Detroit has a large number of nightlife venues. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is Detroit or El Paso Better for Music?

Detroit
El Paso

Detroit is an unbeatable place for live music. However, El Paso is not a live music destination.

Detroit is known as a music capital around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

El Paso is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or El Paso?

Detroit
El Paso

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Detroit and El Paso.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Many visitors go to El Paso to go shopping. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

Is Detroit or El Paso Better for Families?

Detroit
El Paso

Detroit and El Paso are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Detroit is a family-friendly city. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is Detroit or El Paso Better for Couples?

Detroit
El Paso

Neither Detroit or El Paso is generally regarded as a top spot for a couple to visit.

Most people don't think of Detroit as a couple's destination. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

El Paso is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.


Is Detroit or El Paso Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Detroit
El Paso

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Detroit and El Paso.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Public transit is generally limited in El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

Is Detroit or El Paso a more walkable city?

Detroit
El Paso

Detroit is very good for its walkability. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Detroit is somewhat walkable. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

El Paso is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is El Paso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or El Paso?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Detroit than El Paso. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Detroit that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Detroit than El Paso 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 Detroit.


  • How many days in Detroit or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Detroit 1-3 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Detroit or El Paso?

In Detroit, you'll find shopping and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In El Paso, you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 Detroit or El Paso?

In Detroit, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Detroit has to offer.

In El Paso, you'll find food and shopping. 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 El Paso has to offer.

Five days in Detroit or El Paso?

Detroit 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.

El Paso 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 Detroit or El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Detroit. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Detroit. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in El Paso. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting El Paso. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, El Paso or Detroit?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $133, while the average daily cost in El Paso is $161. 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 Detroit and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Detroit and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Detroit or El Paso? 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 Detroit


Hotels in El Paso


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: Detroit Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    El Paso $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $141
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $141
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $187
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • Detroit - Wayne County Airport One Way Transfer : $80
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $129
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

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

  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $80
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $239
  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Detroit or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso and Detroit 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
    Detroit $44
    El Paso $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Detroit $21
    El Paso $27

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $222
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $6.52
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Segway Tour Strait to the Point: $99
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15

Tours and Activities in El Paso

For El Paso, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $115
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $120
  • Sun City Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Jeep Tour - Pikes Peak or Bust: $175
  • Sun City Ghosts Haunted Cowboys and Outlaws Tour: $30
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $249

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    El Paso $27


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

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


Which is Bigger, Detroit or El Paso?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of El Paso. When comparing the sizes of Detroit and El Paso, 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.