A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Marathon or Las Vegas?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Las Vegas, 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.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Marathon travel costs.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a sinful, fun-filled, and entertaining entertainment capital. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Las Vegas travel costs.

Marathon and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Strip
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Marathon or Las Vegas?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Las Vegas. Although Marathon and Las Vegas are both popular with visitors, Las Vegas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Las Vegas is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Marathon is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Las Vegas is more touristy than Marathon and is popular for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also home to The Strip. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Marathon different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marathon or Las Vegas?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Las Vegas can be an interesting and educational experience. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for theatre. However, Marathon is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Las Vegas. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Marathon is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Marathon or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Las Vegas is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Las Vegas is a world class party destination. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.


Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Marathon is not a live music destination.

Las Vegas is known as a music capital around the world. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Las Vegas offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Marathon is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Marathon is notable for its beaches. However, Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Marathon for it's beautiful beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Las Vegas?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Las Vegas. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Las Vegas More Beautiful?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Marathon is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Marathon is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

Marathon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.

Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Las Vegas has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Is Marathon or Las Vegas Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.


Is Marathon or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Marathon
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Las Vegas is somewhat walkable. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

For even more information, also check out Is Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Las Vegas?

Both Marathon and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Las Vegas has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Las Vegas than Marathon. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Las Vegas than Marathon 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 Las Vegas.


  • How many days in Marathon or Las Vegas? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Las Vegas 2-7

One day in Marathon or Las Vegas?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. 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.

Las Vegas is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

A weekend in Marathon or Las Vegas?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Las Vegas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Las Vegas, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Marathon or Las Vegas?

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

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

A week in Marathon or Las Vegas?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Las Vegas has to offer. This entertainment capital offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Las Vegas or Marathon?

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

  • Marathon Prices
    USA Prices
    Las Vegas Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Las Vegas $369

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Las Vegas is $369. 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 Marathon and Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Las Vegas $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Las Vegas $316
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Las Vegas? 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 Marathon


Hotels in Las Vegas


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: Marathon Hotel Prices and Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Las Vegas $53

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • 24 Hr Bus Pass
    $15
  • 24 hrs Deuce Bus
    $7.00
  • Taxi from Airport to the Strip
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Las Vegas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Las Vegas:

  • From Private Transfer to Zion National Park: $2,592
  • Los Angeles: Private Transfer to/from Las Vegas: $1,600
  • West Grand Canyon Helicopter Ticket with Transfer: $549
  • Las Vegas Airport: Party Bus 1-Way Transfer: $329
  • Las Vegas McCarran Airport (LAS): Transfer to Las Vegas: $261
  • Outdoor Shooting Experience with Transfer and Lunch in Las Vegas: $250
  • RoundTrip Private Transfer Las Vegas by Luxury SUV Cadillac Escalade up to 5 pax: $235
  • Arrival Private Transfer Las Vegas by Luxury SUV or LIMO with 1 hour disposal : $231
  • Las Vegas Airport LAS Round-Trip Private Transfer in SUV: $220
  • From Nellis Dunes ATV Tour with Shuttle Transfer: $200
  • Las Vegas Airport (LAS) to Lake Las Vegas - Round-Trip Transfer: $190
  • Las Vegas Airport (LAS) to Lake Las Vegas - Round-Trip Transfer: $188

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and Marathon 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
    Marathon $89
    Las Vegas $139

Typical Food Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of dining costs in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • Coffee
    $5.00
  • Deep Fried Twinkie
    $1.07
  • Chocolate Dip Banana
    $1.07
  • Gelato
    $5.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Las Vegas

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

  • Manila Meals Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $44
  • Cowboy Christmas Show & Dinner at Firelight Barn in Henderson NV: $49
  • "Blockbuster Beats" show & dinner at the Firelight Barn: $49
  • "Rockin' Through Time" show & dinner at Firelight Barn: $49
  • "31 String Showdown" show & dinner at Firelight Barn in Henderson: $49
  • Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites: $65
  • Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience : $65
  • Manila Food Tour Experience with Local Guide: $70
  • Makati Street Food tour Experience : $73
  • 2 Hour Italian Pasta Cooking Class in Las Vegas: $75
  • 2-Hour Italian Pasta Cooking Class: $75
  • Chocolate Making Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Las Vegas $78

Tours and Activities in Marathon

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

  • Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure: $38
  • Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid: $82
  • Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef: $89
  • Intro to Foilboarding Experience: $214

Typical Entertainment Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • Wedding Chapel
    $139
  • Atomic Testing Museum (two people)
    $12
  • Gondola Ride (4 person)
    $64
  • Monorail Ride
    $5.00
  • NY NY Rollercoaster
    $14
  • Circus Circus Adventure Dome Day Pass
    $26

Tours and Activities in Las Vegas

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Las Vegas are as follows:

  • 1 Hour Private Las Vegas Party Bus Tour: $225
  • All Day GoCar Ultimate Las Vegas Day Tour: $164
  • Ghost Town(Eldorado Canyon) with Gold Mine Tour: $159
  • Lake Mead Private Tour by Boat: $285
  • Manila Guided: Tondo Manila, Binondo and Intramuros Tour: $45
  • Nellis Desert Exploration Jeep Tour Off Road You Drive We Guide: $283
  • Small Group Hoover Dam: From Above, On Top and Below Tour: $100
  • 1 Day Small Group Tour of Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend : $289
  • 1-Day Grand Canyon Tour from Stargazing & Sunrise: $450
  • 1.5-Hour Express Bike Tour in Intramuros (tour using a bamboo bicycle!): $22
  • 1.5-Hour Guided Raft Tour at the Base of the Hoover Dam: $69
  • 100 Island: Pangasinan Island Hopping Tour: $73

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Las Vegas $55

Sample the Local Flavors in Las Vegas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Las Vegas:

  • Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl: $35
  • Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $35
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl (party bus add-on option): $36
  • Happy Hour Bar Crawl! Las Vegas Strip Walking Tour: $39
  • Bars Unknown: The Las Vegas Strip Bar Crawl: $49
  • Las Vegas Bar Crawl by Party Bus with Free Drinks: $49
  • Zombie Burlesque Comedy Musical Show Ticket: $49
  • Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino: $49
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $50
  • Fantasy Burlesque Show at Luxor Hotel & Casino: $53
  • Country Bar Crawl by Party Bus w/ Mixed Drinks: $59
  • Vegas Country Bar Crawl: Party Bus & Drinks Included: $59


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

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


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Las Vegas, 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.