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

Should you visit Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a charming, quaint, and well-preserved town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Williamsburg and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Williamsburg. Although Williamsburg and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Williamsburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Williamsburg is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. It is also home to Colonial Williamsburg. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

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

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

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

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 Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Williamsburg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

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 Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

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 Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

Williamsburg is very popular for its old town. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

Williamsburg has a world-famous historical area. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

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


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

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Williamsburg is well-known for its shopping. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

Williamsburg 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, Williamsburg is very family-friendly. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Williamsburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

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 Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

Williamsburg is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Williamsburg is a very popular place to visit for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

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

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Public transit is generally limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to 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 Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Williamsburg
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable town. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.


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

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

How long in Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Williamsburg, many people enjoy the museums and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

In Roswell, New Mexico, many people enjoy the museums and food that this infamous town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Williamsburg for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Williamsburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Roswell, New Mexico is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Williamsburg offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and food around the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Williamsburg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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, Roswell, New Mexico or Williamsburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Williamsburg is $112, 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 Williamsburg and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Williamsburg $66
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Williamsburg $132
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Williamsburg and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Williamsburg $11
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Williamsburg 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
    Williamsburg $31
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Williamsburg

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

  • Taste of Williamsburg Food Tour by Junket: $79
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $84

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Williamsburg $34
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Williamsburg

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

  • Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Stories and Walking Tour: $25
  • 1 Hour Christmastide Walking Tour in Virginia Past and Present : $25
  • 2-Hour Private Guided The best of Williamsburg Walking Tour: $175
  • Busch Gardens Williamsburg Admission Ticket: $62
  • Colonial Ghosts Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Colonial Ghosts Ultimate Dead of Night Haunted Ghost Tour: $35
  • Colonial History Tour in Williamsburg Virginia: $25
  • Colonial Williamsburg & Yorktown Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $25
  • Colonial Williamsburg Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Colonial Christmas Walking Tour: $20
  • Colonial Colonial History Guided Walking Tour: $25
  • Colonial Self-Guided Walking Tour: $15

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Williamsburg

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

  • Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $35
  • The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl: $48


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


Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg 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.