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

Should you visit Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sonoma and Roswell, New Mexico can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a relaxing, scenic, and serene county. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Sonoma and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sonoma. Although Sonoma and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Sonoma has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sonoma is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Roswell, New Mexico is known for its museums. Sonoma is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also home to Buena Vista Winery. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


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

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Eat your way through Sonoma, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

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 Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Sonoma has a large number of nightlife venues. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

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 Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

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

There are plenty of resorts in Sonoma to choose from. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

Sonoma is a very popular place for the beache. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Sonoma for it's beautiful beaches. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

Sonoma 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 Sonoma. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

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

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Sonoma is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

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 Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

Both Sonoma and Roswell, New Mexico are good to visit with kids.

Sonoma offers lots of family activities. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Roswell, New Mexico is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Sonoma is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.


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

Sonoma
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

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

Sonoma is not a walkable county. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

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

How long in Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Roswell, New Mexico. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico?

The beautiful destination of Sonoma offers food and shopping. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Sonoma. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This county 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sonoma is $219, 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 Sonoma and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sonoma $93
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sonoma $186
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Sonoma and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Sonoma 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 Sonoma


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sonoma $134
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Sonoma 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
    Sonoma $56
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sonoma $16
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • Create your own wine blend experience: $140
  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $300
  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $49
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $126
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $125

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sonoma $41
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Sonoma

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

  • San Francisco: Half-Day Wine Tour with 2 Tastings Included: $189
  • Sonoma Food & Wine Tour: $235


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


Which is Bigger, Sonoma or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Sonoma 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.