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

Should you visit Richmond or El Paso?

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 Richmond and El Paso can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

El Paso

El Paso is a undiscovered, laid-back, and low-key city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Richmond and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Richmond or El Paso?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Richmond than El Paso. While El Paso is larger than Richmond, Richmond has more sights and attractions for tourists. Richmond is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its cultural and historical sights. Also, Richmond is famous for the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. El Paso is well known for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Richmond different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Richmond
El Paso

Richmond 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 Richmond specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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 Richmond or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Richmond
El Paso

Foodies will find both Richmond and El Paso both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around El Paso. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Richmond or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
El Paso

Evening events are notable in both Richmond and El Paso.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in El Paso. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or El Paso?

Richmond
El Paso

Both Richmond and El Paso are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Richmond to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in El Paso. 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 Richmond or El Paso Better for Families?

Richmond
El Paso

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Richmond or El Paso.

Richmond is a family-friendly place to visit. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

El Paso is a family-friendly city. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is Richmond or El Paso Better for Couples?

Richmond
El Paso

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

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

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 Richmond or El Paso Better for Students?

Richmond
El Paso

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

Plenty of students visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

El Paso is not popular with students.


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

Richmond
El Paso

Both Richmond and El Paso offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Public transit is mostly 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 Richmond or El Paso a more walkable city?

Richmond
El Paso

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

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Richmond or El Paso to fill your time. In our opinion, Richmond has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Richmond than El Paso. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


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

One day in Richmond or El Paso?

In Richmond, 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.

The city of El Paso offers food and shopping. 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 Richmond or El Paso?

In Richmond, 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 Richmond has to offer.

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

Five days in Richmond or El Paso?

Richmond 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.

El Paso 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 Richmond or El Paso?

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

El Paso 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 city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, El Paso or Richmond?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $161, 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 Richmond and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Richmond and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Richmond 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 Richmond


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: Richmond Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    El Paso $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso and Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
    El Paso $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90

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.
    Richmond $13
    El Paso $27

Tours and Activities in Richmond

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

  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond: $44
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Church Hill Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour: $125
  • Guided Walking Tour of Richmond: $38
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour: $30
  • Historic Trolley Tour: $38
  • Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond: $76
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • Private Sightseeing Tour by Electric Cart in Richmond: $165

Tours and Activities in El Paso

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

  • Sun City Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Sun City Ghosts Haunted Cowboys and Outlaws Tour: $30
  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $115
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $120
  • Jeep Tour - Pikes Peak or Bust: $175
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $249

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    El Paso $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


When comparing the travel costs between Richmond and El Paso, we can see that Richmond is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Richmond or El Paso?

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