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

Should you visit Orlando or El Paso?

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

Should I visit Orlando or El Paso? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and theater.

El Paso

El Paso is a laid-back, low-key, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Orlando and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Orlando or El Paso?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Orlando than El Paso. While El Paso is larger than Orlando, Orlando has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while El Paso is known for its museums. Orlando is more touristy than El Paso and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. El Paso is popular for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Orlando different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or El Paso?

Orlando
El Paso

El Paso is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

El Paso is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or El Paso Better for Theater?

Orlando
El Paso

Orlando is very good for theatre. However, El Paso is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

El Paso is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orlando
El Paso

Orlando is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in El Paso. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Orlando or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
El Paso

The vibe at night is good in both Orlando and El Paso.

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in El Paso. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.


Is Orlando or El Paso Better for Resorts?

Orlando
El Paso

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Orlando is a perfect choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

El Paso is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or El Paso?

Orlando
El Paso

Orlando is a very popular place for shopping. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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 Orlando or El Paso Better for Christmas?

Orlando
El Paso

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, El Paso does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

El Paso does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Orlando or El Paso Better for Families?

Orlando
El Paso

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Orlando is one of the most popular family destinations. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando or El Paso Better for Couples?

Orlando
El Paso

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

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

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 Orlando or El Paso Better for Students?

Orlando
El Paso

Orlando is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, El Paso is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

El Paso is not popular with students.


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

Orlando
El Paso

Orlando and El Paso both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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 Orlando or El Paso a more walkable city?

Orlando
El Paso

El Paso is adequate for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or El Paso?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Orlando or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Orlando or El Paso?

In Orlando, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In El Paso, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Orlando or El Paso?

You'll find food and shopping around the active destination of Orlando. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In El Paso, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that El Paso has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or El Paso?

Orlando is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

El Paso 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.

A week in Orlando or El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in El Paso. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting El Paso. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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 Orlando?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $321, 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 Orlando and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Orlando and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Orlando 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 Orlando


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: Orlando Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    El Paso $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

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

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Orlando APT-HTL (MCO): $96
  • Transfer in private minivan Orlando downtown -Orlando Airport (MCO): $60
  • Transfer from Orlando International Airport to Central Florida: $115
  • Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) to Hotels near Universal - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • SUV Transfer TO or FROM MCO to Lake Buena Vista (Disney Hotels): $145
  • SUV Port Transfer TO or FROM Orlando International Airport MCO: $187
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan Orlando Airport (MCO) -Orlando downtown: $127
  • Private transfer Orlando Airport - Hotels in Disney and Universal: $47
  • Private Transfers from Port Canaveral to Disney Hotels: $250
  • Private Transfer: Sanford Airport to Lake Buena Vista Resort Area: $75
  • Private Transfer: Orlando Airport MCO to Legoland in Luxury SUV: $152
  • Private Transfer: Lake Buena Vista Resort to MCO Airport in SUV: $111

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

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

  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $239
  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $120
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $80
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso and Orlando 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
    Orlando $65
    El Paso $54
Typical Food Prices in Orlando

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

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

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $38
  • Tastes of the World Food Tour in Winter Haven : $50
  • Dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe with Live Music: $58
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Sleuth's Mystery Dinner Show, Orlando: $69
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Teatro Martini Dinner Show in Orlando: $79
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

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.
    Orlando $204
    El Paso $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

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

  • 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando: $77
  • Everglades Airboat Tour near Orlando Florida: $89
  • 16 mile Heli Tour Over Disney Spring, Epcot, Hollywood Studios: $86
  • 2 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of the Chain of Lakes: $42
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 2 Hour Kissimmee St. Cloud Self-Guided Lakefront Tour on EBike: $36
  • 2-hr. Kissimmee and St. Cloud Beach Tour on Fully Electric Trike: $44
  • 25 Minutes Adventure Rooms in Max Action Arena ICON Park: $12
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 4-hr. Kissimmee and St. Cloud Beach Tour on Fully Electric Trike: $85
  • 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $300
  • 90 Minute Pontoon Cruise in Florida: $70

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
    Orlando $30
    El Paso $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Virtual Bar Crawl & Scavenger Hunt: $12
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Happy Hour Downtown Pub Crawl: $170
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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.