A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Joshua Tree National Park vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park 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.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a adventurous, unique, and fascinating national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Joshua Tree National Park and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Joshua Tree National Park. Although Joshua Tree National Park and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Joshua Tree National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Joshua Tree National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Roswell, New Mexico is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Joshua Tree National Park is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its unique vegetation and large boulders. It is also home to Cholla Cactus Garden. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. 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.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.


Is the Food Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Roswell, New Mexico is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Neither Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico offer decent nightlife.

Joshua Tree National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Joshua Tree National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Joshua Tree National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

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.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Joshua Tree National Park 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, Joshua Tree National Park is very family-friendly. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Joshua Tree National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Joshua Tree National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Joshua Tree National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Joshua Tree National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Joshua Tree National Park
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable national park. You need a car to truly explore the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Joshua Tree National Park?

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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


  • How many days in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Joshua Tree National Park, many people enjoy the 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the quirky town of Roswell, New Mexico. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

The beautiful destination of Joshua Tree National Park offers . 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.


A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Joshua Tree National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park 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 plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Joshua Tree National Park is $152, 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 Joshua Tree National Park and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park


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: Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $47
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Joshua Tree National Park or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Joshua Tree National Park 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $35
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $27
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29


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


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