A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America South Lake Tahoe vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. You'll find world class beauty in South Lake Tahoe as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a sexy, glamourous, and ritzy entertainment capital. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Las Vegas travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
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
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Strip
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Las Vegas. Although South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas are popular destinations, Las Vegas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Las Vegas is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while South Lake Tahoe attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Las Vegas is more touristy than South Lake Tahoe and is known for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also well known for The Strip. South Lake Tahoe is famous for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting.

How is South Lake Tahoe different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

South Lake Tahoe is notable for snow skiing. However, Las Vegas is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. 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.

Las Vegas is not a skiing destination.


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

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

Las Vegas 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 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.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its theatre productions. However, South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a theatre destination.

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

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its 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.

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.


Is South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

Both South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas are world-class when it comes to 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.

Las Vegas is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas Better for Music?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its live music scene. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Las Vegas 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a live music destination.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its resorts. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury 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 South Lake Tahoe, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.


Is South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

South Lake Tahoe is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

South Lake Tahoe is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Las Vegas make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

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

Is South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas More Beautiful?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in South Lake Tahoe as well. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, South Lake Tahoe is very family-friendly. 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.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas are both world-class to visit as a couple.

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.

Las Vegas is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

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

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

South Lake Tahoe is a good destination for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Las Vegas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most visitors are not backpackers, but for those who want to experience the hype while sticking to a budget, there are a handful of hostels around town.


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

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

Both South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas offer reasonable public transit options.

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.

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.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

South Lake Tahoe
Las Vegas

South Lake Tahoe is notable for its walkability. Also, Las Vegas is not as famous, but is still a good entertainment capital to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or South Lake Tahoe?

How long in South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

Both South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Las Vegas than in South Lake Tahoe. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for South Lake Tahoe, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

Families should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Las Vegas. 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 Las Vegas than South Lake Tahoe. 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 South Lake Tahoe than Las Vegas 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 South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas? Ideal Length of Stay
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5 
    Las Vegas 2-7

One day in South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

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.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

You'll find shopping and skiing around the scenic 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.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Five days in South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the scenic 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.

Las Vegas is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

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.

Las Vegas is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


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, Las Vegas or South Lake Tahoe?

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

  • South Lake Tahoe Prices
    USA Prices
    Las Vegas Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    South Lake Tahoe $146
    Las Vegas $369

The average daily cost (per person) in South Lake Tahoe is $146, 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 South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    South Lake Tahoe $54
    Las Vegas $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    South Lake Tahoe $108
    Las Vegas $316
Compare Hotels in South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe


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: South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices and Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    South Lake Tahoe $24
    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:

  • LAS Airport Private Transfer to Las Vegas City: $17
  • LAS Airport to Las Vegas Stripe Hotels Shared Transfer: $22
  • Las Vegas Airport (LAS) / Transfer to hotels on the Strip.: $27
  • LAS Airport to Downtown|Strip Hotels Private Transfer: $36
  • Private Transfer to Las Vegas Airport (LAS): $38
  • Private Transfer from Las Vegas Airport (LAS): $38
  • Transfer Airport to Hotel or Hotel to Airport : $39
  • Las Vegas to Las Vegas Airport(LAS) - Departure Private Transfer : $42
  • Las Vegas Airport (LAS) to Las Vegas - Arrival Private Transfer : $42
  • One Way Private Transfer to/from McCarran Airport: $50
  • Manila- Private Airport Transfers (SEDAN): $50
  • Private Arrival Transfer: From Las Vegas Airport: $54

Is it cheaper to fly into South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe $66
    Las Vegas $139

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

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.
    South Lake Tahoe $56
    Las Vegas $78

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

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

  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour From Incline Village to South Lake Tahoe: $12
  • Self-Guided Driving Tour from Lake Tahoe to Virginia City: $15
  • Self-Guided Driving Tour from Tahoe City to Donner Summit: $15
  • Ultimate Lake Tahoe Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Public Sauna Experience at Tahoe Vista Recreation Area: $40
  • Lake Tahoe: Full Day Self-Guided Bike Tour: $69
  • Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley: $70
  • Guided Tour of Historic Virginia City and Carson City from South Lake Tahoe: $70
  • Sunset Kayak Experience in South Lake Tahoe: $75
  • Sunset Kayak Tour in Tahoe City: $75
  • Lake Tahoe's West Shore Best Shore Kayak Tour: $80
  • Virginia City Day Tour From Lake Tahoe with Train Ride: $80

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:

  • Downtown Las Vegas Self Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • BEEsita Sa Bukid - Guided Bee Farm Tour: $9.81
  • Las Vegas’ Glitter Gulch, Ghosts and Gangsters: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Dowtown Las Vegas: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Henderson by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Red Rock Canyon Tour Self-Guided Drive Experience: $13
  • Las Vegas Strip Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour : $13
  • Las Vegas Natural History Museum Admission Ticket: $14
  • Hoover Dam and Lake Mead Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Fremont Las Vegas Nevada Audio Tour: $15
  • Audio Driving Tour: Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam Red Rock Canyon: $17
  • Skip the Line: Springs Preserve in Las Vegas Admission Ticket: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    South Lake Tahoe $34
    Las Vegas $55

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

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 South Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. And not only is South Lake Tahoe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to South Lake Tahoe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

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


Which is Bigger, South Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas?

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