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

Should you visit Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Roswell, New Mexico

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

Anchorage

Anchorage is a artsy, nature-oriented, and outdoorsy city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Anchorage. Although Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage are popular destinations, Anchorage has more sights and attractions for tourists. Anchorage is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. It is also well known for Chugach State Park. Roswell, New Mexico is famous for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Roswell, New Mexico different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Anchorage. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

Both Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Roswell, New Mexico has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Anchorage area. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

Anchorage is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

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

Anchorage is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage?

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

Anchorage is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage Better for Families?

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

Both Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage are nice family-friendly destinations.

Roswell, New Mexico is a family-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Anchorage. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

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

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

Anchorage is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Roswell, New Mexico is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people pass through in route to other destinations, and backpackers are no different.

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

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

Roswell, New Mexico is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Roswell, New Mexico
Anchorage

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.


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

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

How long in Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Anchorage than in Roswell, New Mexico. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Roswell, New Mexico, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage?

You'll find food and museums around the town of Roswell, New Mexico. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Roswell, New Mexico has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Anchorage, many people enjoy the museums and food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and food around the infamous destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the mysterious town of Roswell, New Mexico. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The beautiful destination of Anchorage offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage?

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Anchorage. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Roswell, New Mexico is $117, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. 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 Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage? 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 Roswell, New Mexico


Hotels in Anchorage


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: Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Roswell, New Mexico $38
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219

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

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico $44
    Anchorage $50

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

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

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Roswell, New Mexico $33
    Anchorage $30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

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

  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $6,999
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $115
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $110
  • Alaska's Most Scenic E-Bike Adventure: $224
  • Anchorage Brews Tour: $169
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $73
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Chocolate Factory Samplings & Much More!: $59
  • Anchorage Ice Fishing Adventure: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Guided Tour on Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey & Wine Tasting: $285


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


Which is Bigger, Roswell, New Mexico or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Roswell, New Mexico and Anchorage, 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.