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

Should you visit Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Flagstaff and Roswell, New Mexico can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a active, adventurous , and picturesque city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Flagstaff and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Flagstaff. Although Flagstaff and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Flagstaff has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Flagstaff is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66. It is also home to Walnut Canyon National Monument. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Flagstaff. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

Flagstaff is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Flagstaff has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. 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 Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

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 Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Flagstaff is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.


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

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.

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 Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

Flagstaff 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, Flagstaff is very family-friendly. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

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 Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Flagstaff makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.

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

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

Flagstaff is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Flagstaff. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.

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

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Flagstaff and Roswell, New Mexico.

Public transit is generally limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

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

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

Flagstaff
Roswell, New Mexico

Flagstaff and Roswell, New Mexico both are good when exploring on foot.

Flagstaff is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.

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


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

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

How long in Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Flagstaff than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Flagstaff, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Flagstaff 2-4 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Flagstaff, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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 food and museums around the town of Roswell, New Mexico. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Roswell, New Mexico has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and food around the quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Flagstaff offers shopping 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the quirky town of Roswell, New Mexico. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Flagstaff?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Flagstaff is $166, 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 Flagstaff and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Flagstaff $86
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Flagstaff $172
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Flagstaff and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Flagstaff $37
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Flagstaff 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
    Flagstaff $55
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Flagstaff $28
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Flagstaff

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

  • 2 HR Guided Electric Bike Tour of Flagstaff and Buffalo Park: $105
  • 2 Hours Private E-Bike Tours In Northern Arizona: $75
  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into The Void Flag Style Wanted: $35
  • All-day Grand Canyon • Indian Ruins • Volcano • Christian Tour: $199
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Flagstaff: $299
  • Antelope Slot Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Flagstaff: $285
  • Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park Tour with Lunch & Pickup: $245
  • Comprehensive Grand Canyon Tour from Flagstaff w/Lunch: $208
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour: $28
  • Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course-Adult Course: $65
  • Flagstaff Ghosts Tour By Us Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Flagstaff Puzzling Adventure: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Flagstaff $29
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Flagstaff

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Flagstaff:

  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl Of Downtown Flagstaff: $50
  • Haunted Pub Crawl with Guide: $50


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


Which is Bigger, Flagstaff or Roswell, New Mexico?

Flagstaff has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Flagstaff 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.

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