A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Palm Springs vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Palm Springs and Roswell, New Mexico can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a ritzy, chic, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a quirky, mysterious, and infamous town. It's also known for food and museums.

Palm Springs and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Palm Springs and Roswell, New Mexico are popular destinations, Palm Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palm Springs is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also well known for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Roswell, New Mexico is famous for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Both Palm Springs and Roswell, New Mexico have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Palm Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

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.


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

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Palm Springs has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. 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 Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Palm Springs is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Palm Springs is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

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 Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Palm Springs is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Palm Springs for its luxury resorts. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Palm Springs is well-known for its shopping. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

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 Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Palm Springs 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, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

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 Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

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

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Both Palm Springs and Roswell, New Mexico offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

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

Is Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Palm Springs
Roswell, New Mexico

Palm Springs and Roswell, New Mexico both are nice when exploring on foot.

Palm Springs is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs.


  • How many days in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Palm Springs 2-4 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Palm Springs, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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.

In Roswell, New Mexico, many people enjoy the museums and food that this quirky town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Palm Springs for a weekend. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Palm Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Roswell, New Mexico is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Palm Springs offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and food around the quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city 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 place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Palm Springs?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Palm Springs is $206, 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 Palm Springs and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palm Springs $120
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palm Springs $240
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Palm Springs and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs


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: Palm Springs Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palm Springs $52
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Private Transfer from PSP to Palm Desert / Indian Wells: $135
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to SANTA ANA - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to ONTARIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262
  • Palm Springs Airport to Desert Hot Springs Round-Trip Transfer: $175
  • Palm Springs Airport PSP to Snow Summit-Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to INDIAN WELLS - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Private Transfer: $87
  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport Departure Transfer: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $53
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palm Springs $29
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palm Springs are as follows:

  • 10+ Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas: $50
  • 100+ Self Guided Driving & Walking Tours by Action: $100
  • Best of Palm Springs Small Group Tour w/ Aerial Tram: $166
  • Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ: $129
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Desert Healing Experience: $175
  • Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bicycle Adventure: $139
  • Food Adventure Game: $99
  • Indian Canyons Walking Tour by Jeep from Palm Springs: $200
  • Joshua Tree National Park Driving Tour : $235
  • Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour: $235
  • Joshua Tree National Park Scenic Tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palm Springs $13
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29


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


Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs 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.