A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Albuquerque for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Albuquerque? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a traditional, cosmopolitan, and cultural town. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

West Palm Beach and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Albuquerque than West Palm Beach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Albuquerque is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is more touristy than Albuquerque and is known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Albuquerque is popular for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is West Palm Beach different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Albuquerque and West Palm Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a great town for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Albuquerque. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for nightlife. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

West Palm Beach is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to West Palm Beach for its luxury resorts. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Albuquerque is not a resort destination.


Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

West Palm Beach is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

West Palm Beach offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is very popular for its historic old town. However, West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Albuquerque has a world-famous historical area. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.


Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a popular place for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Albuquerque is a good destination for hiking. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a great town for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Albuquerque. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

West Palm Beach is a very family-friendly destination. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.


Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Albuquerque make for a superb place to visit.

West Palm Beach is a great beach area if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Albuquerque is a very popular place to visit for couples. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Students?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Albuquerque. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

West Palm Beach is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Albuquerque is not known for its public transit.

While West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Public transit is generally limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.


Is West Palm Beach or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
Albuquerque

West Palm Beach and Albuquerque are good when it comes to walkability.

West Palm Beach is somewhat walkable. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

For even more information, also check out Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either West Palm Beach or Albuquerque. Generally, people tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Albuquerque.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albuquerque than West Palm Beach 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 Albuquerque.


  • How many days in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    Albuquerque 2-4

One day in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the diverse beach area of West Palm Beach. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The outdoorsy destination of Albuquerque offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the vibrant destination of West Palm Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach area offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

The town of Albuquerque offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the diverse beach area of West Palm Beach. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Albuquerque is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of West Palm Beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach area.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Albuquerque. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Albuquerque or West Palm Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $330, while the average daily cost in Albuquerque is $135. 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 West Palm Beach and Albuquerque in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    Albuquerque $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    Albuquerque $138
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and Albuquerque

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach or Albuquerque? 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 West Palm Beach


Hotels in Albuquerque


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: West Palm Beach Hotel Prices and Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    Albuquerque $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Luxury SUV: $109
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Business Car: $94
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $83
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port - Arrival Transfer: $41
  • Palm Beach hotels to Cruise Port of Palm Beach - Departure Private Transfer : $41
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - Arrival Private Transfer : $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Round-Trip Transfer: $252
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Pagosa Springs Private Transfer: $176
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Private Transfer: $126
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $79
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $39
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $39

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

Prices for flights to both Albuquerque and West Palm Beach 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
    West Palm Beach $66
    Albuquerque $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

For West Palm Beach, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $85
  • Downtown Food Tour: $85
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $101
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Historic Neighborhood Food Tour: $101

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

For Albuquerque, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    Albuquerque $24

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 2-Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster Park, Blue Heron Bridge: $60
  • 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion off Peanut Island Park: $77
  • Beginner Scuba Diving Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $99
  • Beginner Snorkel Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $49
  • Blue Heron Bridge Guided Snorkel Tour : $90
  • Blue Heron Bridge Half Day Reef Snorkeling Adventure With Lunch: $56
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Christmas Light Cruise from Jupiter: $75
  • Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida: $75
  • Clear Kayak Tour in Jupiter: $79
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • 4pm - 75 Minute Private Ghost Tour Up To 5 People For All Ages in New Mexico: $108
  • 6pm PRIVATE GHOST TOUR of Old Town - 90 Minutes: $135
  • ABQ Beer Tour: A Curated Craft Beer Experience in the Land of Enchantment: $105
  • ABQ City Guided History Tour: $35
  • Albuquerque Old Town Art Tour with Wine & Museum Admission: $85
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $49
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Albuquerque Snowshoe Experience: $135
  • Albuquerque’s Family Adventure of A Journey of Discovery: $290
  • Albuquerque’s Family Adventure: A Journey of Discovery: $608

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    Albuquerque $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between West Palm Beach and Albuquerque, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Albuquerque much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Albuquerque would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Albuquerque 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 West Palm Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in West Palm Beach than you might in Albuquerque.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is West Palm Beach Expensive? and Is Albuquerque Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Albuquerque, 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.