A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cleveland vs. South Lake Tahoe for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a diverse, authentic, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping. See Cleveland travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. South Lake Tahoe is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Cleveland and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in South Lake Tahoe. Although Cleveland and South Lake Tahoe are popular destinations, South Lake Tahoe has more sights and attractions for tourists. South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cleveland attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and music. South Lake Tahoe is more touristy than Cleveland and is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for the Heavenly Gondola. Cleveland is famous for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Cleveland different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between South Lake Tahoe and Cleveland. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cleveland is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Cleveland is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

Cleveland is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cleveland can be an interesting and educational experience. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

While most people don't head to South Lake Tahoe specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around South Lake Tahoe. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

South Lake Tahoe has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.


Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Music?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

Cleveland is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Cleveland is very popular with diverse venues. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

South Lake Tahoe is not a live music destination.

Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

South Lake Tahoe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cleveland is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, South Lake Tahoe draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

Cleveland is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Cleveland and South Lake Tahoe.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cleveland. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

South Lake Tahoe offers some nice shopping areas. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe More Beautiful?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cleveland is not a destination known for its beauty.

South Lake Tahoe is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

Cleveland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.


Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

South Lake Tahoe has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Cleveland is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There's little in the area that attracts the backpacker crowd.

Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Cleveland and South Lake Tahoe.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Public transit is generally limited in South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.


Is Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

Cleveland
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

South Lake Tahoe is very walkable. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

For even more information, also check out Is Cleveland Worth Visiting? and Is South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or Cleveland?

How long in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Cleveland because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cleveland, and 3-5 days is enough time in South Lake Tahoe.

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

Couples should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Cleveland. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in South Lake Tahoe that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Cleveland 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 South Lake Tahoe.


  • How many days in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cleveland 1-3 
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5

One day in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find live music and shopping around the authentic destination of Cleveland. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of South Lake Tahoe. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find shopping and museums around the authentic city of Cleveland. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the idyllic destination of South Lake Tahoe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

Cleveland is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the idyllic town of South Lake Tahoe. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

Cleveland is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

South Lake Tahoe is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, South Lake Tahoe or Cleveland?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cleveland Prices
    USA Prices
    South Lake Tahoe Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cleveland $158
    South Lake Tahoe $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Cleveland is $158, while the average daily cost in South Lake Tahoe is $146. 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 Cleveland and South Lake Tahoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cleveland $75
    South Lake Tahoe $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cleveland $150
    South Lake Tahoe $108
Compare Hotels in Cleveland and South Lake Tahoe

Looking for a hotel in Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe? 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 Cleveland


Hotels in South Lake Tahoe


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: Cleveland Hotel Prices and South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cleveland $19
    South Lake Tahoe $24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $68
  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $68
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $104
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

Prices for flights to both South Lake Tahoe and Cleveland 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
    Cleveland $62
    South Lake Tahoe $66
Typical Food Prices in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

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

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $53
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $79
  • Tremont Neighborhood Food Tour: $79
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in South Lake Tahoe

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in South Lake Tahoe.

  • Persian Cooking Class with Private Chef: $120
  • Lake Tahoe Evening Dinner Cruise: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cleveland $40
    South Lake Tahoe $56

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Akron Secrets: Rubber City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.00
  • Cleveland Downtown Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Cleveland by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Skip the Line: Cleveland History Center Admission Ticket: $14
  • Ghost Tour of Cleveland with free Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Cleveland with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cleveland Sights & Stories: $28
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of University Circle Sights & Stories: $28
  • Phantom's Parade on Prospect: Cleveland Ghost Tours: $32
  • Cleveland Browns Football Game Ticket at Huntington Bank Field: $35
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $39
  • Cleveland Comedy City Tour: $39

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • Clear Kayak Paddle Tour at Cave Rock: $110
  • "Lake Tahoe 101" : See The Whole Lake! 6 HR Shared Tour by Van.: $199
  • 2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe: $140
  • Clear Kayak Adventure Tour: $198
  • Clear Kayak Paddle Tour: $150
  • Clear Kayak Tour: $140
  • Eco Canoe Tour: $258
  • Electric Dirtbike Adventure in Lake Tahoe: $200
  • Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe: $139
  • Emerald Bay Private Boat Tours: $690
  • Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley: $70
  • Guided Scenic Bike Experience above Lake Tahoe's East Shore: $205

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cleveland $45
    South Lake Tahoe $34
Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Cleveland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cleveland:

  • Cleveland Brewery Golf Cart Tour Experience: $60

Sample the Local Flavors in South Lake Tahoe

Also in South Lake Tahoe, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Scavenger Adventure and Lake Tahoe Bar Crawl: $15
  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150


When comparing the travel costs between Cleveland and South Lake Tahoe, we can see that Cleveland 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 Cleveland Expensive? and Is South Lake Tahoe Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cleveland or South Lake Tahoe?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of Cleveland and South Lake Tahoe, 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.