A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Key West or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Should I visit Key West or Roswell, New Mexico? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a bustling, active, and lively 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. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Roswell, New Mexico

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

Key West and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Key West than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Key West is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Roswell, New Mexico is more popular for its museums. Key West is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Also, Key West is famous for Duval Street. Roswell, New Mexico is well known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Key West and Roswell, New Mexico.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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.

Is Key West or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Key West has a large number of nightlife venues. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Key West is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Key West to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Key West is a very popular place for the beache. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Key West for it's beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Roswell, New Mexico Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a very popular place for its old town. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Roswell, New Mexico?

Both Key West and Roswell, New Mexico are respectable shopping destinations.

If you're looking to go shopping, Key West has some nice offerings. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy 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.

Is Key West or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Key West 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, Key West is very family-friendly. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Key West is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

Key West is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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 Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Key West and Roswell, New Mexico both are notable when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

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

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

How long in Key West or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Key West, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this quaint destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The town of Roswell, New Mexico offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Key West for a weekend. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Roswell, New Mexico, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Key West, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, five days is sufficent for most.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Key West, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this quirky destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This town offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer.

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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.