A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers South Lake Tahoe vs. Winnipeg for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg?

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 Winnipeg, 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 breathtaking, idyllic, and scenic town. Many visitors also come to South Lake Tahoe because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the skiing, nightlife, and food. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a welcoming, cultural, and friendly city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Winnipeg travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe and Winnipeg: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in South Lake Tahoe than Winnipeg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. South Lake Tahoe is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Winnipeg is more popular for its museums and attractions. South Lake Tahoe is more touristy than Winnipeg and is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. Also, South Lake Tahoe is famous for the Heavenly Gondola. Winnipeg is well known for its festivals, culture, and railway connections.

How is South Lake Tahoe different from Winnipeg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

South Lake Tahoe is great for skiing. However, Winnipeg is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in South Lake Tahoe. 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.

Winnipeg is not a skiing destination.


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

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some unique museums around town including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Other popular museums are the Manitoba Museum and the Manitoba Children's 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 the Food Better in South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between South Lake Tahoe and Winnipeg can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Winnipeg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants around town that serve a mix of local dishes and international cuisines. A must-see part of the city is the historic Forks Market.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in South Lake Tahoe is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Winnipeg. The city has an active nightlife, even during the winter months. You'll find dance clubs, bars, and pubs around town that are popular with locals and visitors alike.


Is South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg Better for Resorts?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

South Lake Tahoe is great for its luxury resorts. However, Winnipeg is not a resort destination.

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.

Winnipeg is not a resort destination.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

Around South Lake Tahoe visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

Both South Lake Tahoe and Winnipeg are notable shopping destinations.

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.

Winnipeg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town, from boutiques to big box shops and even some outlets.


Is South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg More Beautiful?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Winnipeg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to South Lake Tahoe because of it's amazing beauty. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

Winnipeg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

South Lake Tahoe is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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.

Winnipeg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Assiniboine Park Zoo or the Manitoba Children's Museum. There are a number of parks and playgrounds around town as well as the Prairie Dog Central Railway. There are many kid-friendly restaurants in the city as well.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Winnipeg is a good town for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy wandering through Assiniboine Park. There are also many romantic restaurants and spas for couples.


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

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

Both South Lake Tahoe and Winnipeg are notable destinations 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.

Winnipeg is a good town to visit for backpackers. While it's often overlooked by backpackers, there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

Both South Lake Tahoe and Winnipeg offer respectable 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 Winnipeg. There's a bus system around town, but many visitors prefer to have a vehicle.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg a more walkable city?

South Lake Tahoe
Winnipeg

South Lake Tahoe is great for its high level of walkability. However, Winnipeg is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Winnipeg is generally not very walkable. While there are a few walkable neighborhoods, the city itself is not particularly walkable, particularly during the cold winter months.


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

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

How long in South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg?

It's fun to spend time in either South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for South Lake Tahoe, and 2-4 days is enough time in Winnipeg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg? Ideal Length of Stay
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5 
    Winnipeg 2-4

One day in South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg?

The beautiful town of South Lake Tahoe offers nightlife and food. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the welcoming destination of Winnipeg. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg?

South Lake Tahoe 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the friendly city of Winnipeg. 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.

Five days in South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg?

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

Winnipeg 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.


A week in South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg?

South Lake Tahoe is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Winnipeg 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.


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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    South Lake Tahoe $146
    Winnipeg $255

The average daily cost (per person) in South Lake Tahoe is $146, while the average daily cost in Winnipeg is $255. 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 Winnipeg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    South Lake Tahoe $54
    Winnipeg $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    South Lake Tahoe $108
    Winnipeg $184
Compare Hotels in South Lake Tahoe and Winnipeg

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


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 Winnipeg Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Winnipeg

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

  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport to Winnipeg Accommodation : $37
  • Winnipeg accomodation to Winnipeg Airport (YWG) - Departure Private Transfer: $83
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg Hotels: $97
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Hotels to Winnipeg Airport (YWG): $97
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $165
  • Winnipeg One way Private transfer from/to the Airport: $200

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

Prices for flights to both Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg $9.33

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.
    South Lake Tahoe $56
    Winnipeg $2.52

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 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
  • Guided Snowshoe Experience in Lake Tahoe: $150

Tours and Activities in Winnipeg

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

  • The Forks Historic Site: a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Manitoba Legislative Grounds: Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Winnipeg's Most Haunted: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour: $6.61
  • Winnipeg's Wealthy Beginnings: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.61
  • The Sights of South a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Discover Assiniboine Park with a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.61
  • Explore The Challenge of Moderninity with Walking Tours in Winnipeg, MB: $6.61
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Winnipeg by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Winnipeg MB: $11
  • Wonderful 3 Smartphone Audio Guided Walking Tours: $14
  • Winnipeg's Outdoor Secret Agent Audio Experience: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    South Lake Tahoe $34
    Winnipeg -

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between South Lake Tahoe and Winnipeg, we can see that Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, South Lake Tahoe or Winnipeg?

Winnipeg has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of South Lake Tahoe and Winnipeg, 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.