A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Minneapolis vs. Albuquerque for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Minneapolis or Albuquerque, 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.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a dynamic, innovative, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a desert, historic, and traditional town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Minneapolis and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Minneapolis than Albuquerque. While Albuquerque is larger than Minneapolis, Minneapolis has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Minneapolis is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Albuquerque attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Minneapolis is famous for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also well known for Mall of America. Albuquerque is famous for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Minneapolis different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Minneapolis and Albuquerque.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Minneapolis can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Albuquerque. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.


Is the Food Better in Minneapolis or Albuquerque? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Albuquerque has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Minneapolis area. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Minneapolis or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Minneapolis is a great city for nightlife. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Minneapolis has something for everybody. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Is Minneapolis or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Minneapolis does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Albuquerque is revered around the world. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

Minneapolis does not have a historic old town.


Is Minneapolis or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Albuquerque has hiking trails worth exploring. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Minneapolis is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Minneapolis. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Albuquerque is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Is Minneapolis or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Minneapolis is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Minneapolis is a very family-friendly destination. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.


Is Minneapolis or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Albuquerque makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Minneapolis is a good city for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Minneapolis or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Minneapolis is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for students.

Many students visit Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Albuquerque is a good city to visit for students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Is Minneapolis or Albuquerque Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Minneapolis is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Albuquerque is not known for its public transit.

While Minneapolis offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.


Is Minneapolis or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Minneapolis
Albuquerque

Minneapolis and Albuquerque are nice when it comes to walkability.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable place. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable city. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

For even more information, also check out Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting? and Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either Minneapolis or Albuquerque. In our opinion, Minneapolis has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Minneapolis than Albuquerque. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Minneapolis than Albuquerque 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 Minneapolis.


  • How many days in Minneapolis or Albuquerque? Ideal Length of Stay
    Minneapolis 2-4 
    Albuquerque 2-4

One day in Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the innovative city of Minneapolis. Most people visit for the shopping. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural town of Albuquerque. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse destination of Minneapolis. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Albuquerque. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

The diverse city of Minneapolis offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The cosmopolitan town of Albuquerque offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Minneapolis. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the shopping. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Albuquerque. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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, Albuquerque or Minneapolis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Minneapolis is $206, while the average daily cost in Albuquerque is $135. 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 Minneapolis and Albuquerque in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Minneapolis $110
    Albuquerque $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Minneapolis $220
    Albuquerque $138
Compare Hotels in Minneapolis and Albuquerque

Looking for a hotel in Minneapolis or Albuquerque? 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 Minneapolis


Hotels in Albuquerque


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: Minneapolis Hotel Prices and Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Minneapolis $43
    Albuquerque $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $137
  • Private Departure Transfer to Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Arrival Private Transfer: $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Round-Trip Transfer: $250
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Private Transfer: $125
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Pagosa Springs Private Transfer: $174
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $78
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $39

Is it cheaper to fly into Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

Prices for flights to both Albuquerque and Minneapolis 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
    Minneapolis $40
    Albuquerque $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Food Tour - Walking: $115

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Minneapolis $27
    Albuquerque $24

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

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

  • Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour in Minneapolis: $55
  • Challah Baking Experience: $72
  • Christmas in the City: A Minneapolis Walking Tour: $687
  • Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour: $99
  • Experience St. Paul Ghost Walking Tour: $29
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Minneapolis with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Walking Tour in Minneapolis: $29
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Lost Souls Tour: $20
  • Mall of America: 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $44
  • Mall of America: Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket: $31

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Albuquerque.

  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • 4pm - 75 Minute Private Ghost Tour Up To 5 People For All Ages in New Mexico: $108
  • 6pm PRIVATE GHOST TOUR of Old Town - 90 Minutes: $135
  • ABQ Beer Tour: A Curated Craft Beer Experience in the Land of Enchantment: $105
  • ABQ City Guided History Tour: $35
  • Albuquerque Old Town Art Tour with Wine & Museum Admission: $85
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $49
  • Albuquerque Snowshoe Experience: $135
  • Albuquerque’s Family Adventure of A Journey of Discovery: $287
  • Albuquerque’s Family Adventure: A Journey of Discovery: $606

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Minneapolis $24
    Albuquerque $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

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

  • History and 4-Bar Crawl Guided Walking Tour: $69
  • All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour: $85
  • 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour: $100


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

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


Which is Bigger, Minneapolis or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Minneapolis. When comparing the sizes of Minneapolis and Albuquerque, 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.