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

Should you visit San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico?

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 San Antonio and Roswell, New Mexico. 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.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a cultural, colorful, and festive city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Roswell, New Mexico

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

San Antonio and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Antonio. Although San Antonio and Roswell, New Mexico are popular destinations, San Antonio has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Antonio is famous for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. It is also well known for The Alamo. Roswell, New Mexico is famous for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Antonio. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. 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 San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

Dining out at restaurants in both San Antonio and Roswell, New Mexico can be an enjoyable experience.

San Antonio offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

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.

Is San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in San Antonio. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

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 San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Music?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in San Antonio. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.


Is San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio is a good destination for its old town. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in San Antonio. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio 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 San Antonio. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

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 San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Christmas?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio is a good destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas activities.

Christmas holiday activities are popular when visiting San Antonio. It's fun to see the lights along the River Walk at Christmas.

Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas activities.


Is San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Antonio is very family-friendly. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

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 San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

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 San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

San Antonio is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit San Antonio. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.


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

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both San Antonio and Roswell, New Mexico.

Public transit is generally limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

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

Is San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

San Antonio
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for its walkability. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable city. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

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

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

How long in San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in San Antonio than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Antonio, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.


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

One day in San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico?

In San Antonio, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this destination offers. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the quirky town of Roswell, New Mexico. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit San Antonio for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Antonio, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town 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 San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of San Antonio offers food and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The quirky town of Roswell, New Mexico offers food 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 San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting San Antonio. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or San Antonio?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Antonio is $132, 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 San Antonio and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Antonio $69
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Antonio $138
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in San Antonio and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in San Antonio 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 San Antonio


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: San Antonio Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Antonio $20
    Roswell, New Mexico $38
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • Private Transfer: San Antonio Airport to San Antonio by Sedan, SUV or Minibus : $97
  • Private Round Trip Transfer - San Antonio International Airport (SAT): $93
  • Private One-way San Antonio Airport Transfer To/From San Antonio: $67
  • Galveston: One-Way Transfer GLS Airport to City: $237

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $40
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

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

  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Antonio $36
    Roswell, New Mexico $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

Here are a few typical costs in San Antonio for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

Here are a few actual costs in San Antonio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Private Historic Sightseeing Tour in San Antonio : $95
  • Best of San Antonio Small Group Tour with Boat + Tower + Alamo: $169
  • Cave Without a Name Admission Ticket with Guided Cavern Tour: $25
  • Downtown San Antonio Helicopter Tour: $197
  • Half-Day Afternoon City Tour of Historic San Antonio : $65
  • Historic Downtown & Riverwalk Walking Tour: $39
  • Historic Missions Bike Tour - 2 Mission Southern Route: $65
  • Historic Missions Bike Tour - 2 Missions Northern Route: $65
  • Historic Spanish Missions Bike Tour - 3 Missions Tour: $85
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience: $24
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio Admission Ticket: $27
  • PRIVATE Missions and More - Half-day City Tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Antonio -
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Death Warmed Over: San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Texas’ Oldest Haunted Pub Crawl Shared Walking Tour: $30
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $155


When comparing the travel costs between San Antonio and Roswell, New Mexico, we can see that San Antonio 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 San Antonio Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Antonio or Roswell, New Mexico?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of San Antonio 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.