A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Los Angeles vs. Whistler for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Los Angeles or Whistler?

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 Los Angeles and Whistler. 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.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a diverse, multicultural, and sprawling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and theater. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Whistler travel costs.

Los Angeles and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Whistler, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Los Angeles is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Whistler is more popular for its skiing, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is well known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. Whistler is well known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding.

How is Los Angeles different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Whistler and Los Angeles. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is renowned for skiing and snowboarding. However, Los Angeles is not a skiing destination.

Whistler is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Los Angeles is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or Whistler?

Los Angeles is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Los Angeles that are not to be missed. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a well-known place for theatre. However, Whistler is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Whistler is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Los Angeles or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Los Angeles is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Whistler has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for nightlife. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for nightlife and partying.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Whistler has a large number of nightlife venues. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for live music. However, Whistler is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is a world class music destination. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Whistler is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Resorts?

There are great resorts to choose from in both Los Angeles and Whistler.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Whistler is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is renowned for its beaches. However, Whistler is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Los Angeles and Whistler, and they are world-class.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

People visit Whistler specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Whistler?

Los Angeles is renowned for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Los Angeles is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Families?

Both Los Angeles and Whistler are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Whistler is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is renowned for romance. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its romantic activities.

Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles and Whistler are both great destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for students. However, Whistler is not popular with students.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Whistler is not popular with students.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Whistler is not a good village for times when you don't have a car.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Los Angeles or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Whistler?

In either Los Angeles or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than Whistler because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Los Angeles, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

Couples should spend more time in Los Angeles than Whistler. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Whistler 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Whistler?

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the outdoorsy village of Whistler. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Whistler?

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous destination of Whistler. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This village offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Los Angeles or Whistler?

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy village of Whistler. 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.

A week in Los Angeles or Whistler?

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Whistler. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Los Angeles Expensive? and Is Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Whistler?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles and Whistler, 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.

When is the best time to visit Los Angeles or Whistler?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Whistler in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Los Angeles as well as Whistler. Many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Whistler for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Los Angeles is a little warmer than Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Los Angeles in July average around 72°F (22°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Los Angeles usually gets less rain in July than Whistler. Los Angeles gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Los Angeles are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Whistler because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Los Angeles is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 64°F (18°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In October, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Whistler. Los Angeles gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and Los Angeles during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

It's quite cold in Whistler in the winter. Los Angeles is much warmer than Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 55°F (13°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Los Angeles usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Los Angeles gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Los Angeles and Whistler. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Los Angeles is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Los Angeles in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Whistler. Los Angeles gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Los Angeles