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

Should you visit Minneapolis or El Paso?

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

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

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 food, shopping, and museums.

El Paso

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

Minneapolis and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Minneapolis or El Paso?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Minneapolis than El Paso. While El Paso is larger than Minneapolis, Minneapolis has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Minneapolis is more touristy than El Paso and is known for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also well known for Mall of America. El Paso is famous for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Minneapolis different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between El Paso 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 El Paso?

Minneapolis
El Paso

Minneapolis is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Minneapolis specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Minneapolis or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Minneapolis
El Paso

Foodies will find both Minneapolis and El Paso both to be nice destinations.

Minneapolis has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

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 Minneapolis or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Minneapolis
El Paso

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

Minneapolis has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or El Paso?

Minneapolis
El Paso

Minneapolis is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

El Paso offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Minneapolis or El Paso Better for Families?

Minneapolis
El Paso

Minneapolis is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

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 Minneapolis or El Paso Better for Couples?

Minneapolis
El Paso

Minneapolis is very good for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Minneapolis is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

Is Minneapolis or El Paso Better for Students?

Minneapolis
El Paso

Minneapolis is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, El Paso is not popular with students.

Minneapolis is very popular with students. 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.

El Paso is not popular with students.


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

Minneapolis
El Paso

Minneapolis is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Minneapolis has some public transit options. 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 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 Minneapolis or El Paso a more walkable city?

Minneapolis
El Paso

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

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or El Paso?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Minneapolis or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Minneapolis 2-4 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Minneapolis or El Paso?

In Minneapolis, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the low-key city of El Paso. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Minneapolis or El Paso?

In Minneapolis, you'll find food and shopping. 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 shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Minneapolis has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the low-key destination of El Paso. 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.

Five days in Minneapolis or El Paso?

Minneapolis 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.

The laid-back city of El Paso 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.

A week in Minneapolis or El Paso?

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting El Paso. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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, El Paso 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 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 Minneapolis and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Minneapolis $110
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Minneapolis $220
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Minneapolis and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis


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: Minneapolis Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

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

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

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: $81
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $240
  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Minneapolis or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso 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
    El Paso $54

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

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.
    Minneapolis $27
    El Paso $27

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 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
    Minneapolis $24
    El Paso $27

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 El Paso, we can see that Minneapolis is more expensive. And not only is El Paso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to El Paso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in El Paso 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 El Paso.

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


Which is Bigger, Minneapolis or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Minneapolis. When comparing the sizes of Minneapolis 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.