If you are thinking about going on a vacation and are torn between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, you probably want to learn more about each destination. Similar in culture and climate, these two cities have a lot in common. They’re both exciting, have world-famous tourist sights, and attract large crowds of visitors.
The largest city in Nevada, Las Vegas is the gambling capital of the United States and a popular weekend getaway destination for all kinds of celebrations ranging from weddings to bachelor parties. Then, there is Los Angeles, a city well-known for its vibrant neighborhoods, cult-status entertainment venues, and golden beaches.
So, which city should you visit, Los Angeles or Las Vegas? This ultimate travel comparison guide between Sin City and L.A. will help you make the right decision.
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Los Angeles or Las Vegas: General Vibe
Home to the world-famous Vegas Strip, Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the US. If you are into gambling and want to party all night long, you’ve definitely come to the right place. The largest city in the state of Nevada is well known for its posh resorts with world-class casinos such as Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and the Venetian.
On the other hand, Los Angeles offers something for every traveler. Whether you wish to explore the Malibu Coast, take your kids to Disneyland, or mingle with celebrities in Hollywood, there is plenty to look forward to when visiting The City of Angeles.
The cost of living is more expensive in Los Angeles than in Las Vegas. We also have to mention that Los Angeles is definitely more crowded and the traffic jams in the city can be a real nightmare.
Los Angeles or Las Vegas: Things to do
Both Las Vegas and Los Angeles are packed with a wide range of attractions for couples, families with kids, and groups of friends to enjoy. However, in this category, we have to admit that Los Angeles is a clear winner. Here’s why:
There is more to Las Vegas than just gambling and drinking cocktails in casino lobbies. For instance, culture vultures can pay a visit to awesome museums in Las Vegas like the Neon Museum and Mob Museum. You can also spend a few hours at the Flamingo Habitat where you will find winding pathways filled with parrots, swans, turtles, and pelicans. Fans of old-school arcade games can look forward to spending a day at the extraordinary Pinball Hall of Fame in Las Vegas. Adrenaline junkies looking for things to do in Las Vegas can visit the Vegas Indoor Skydiving and experience skydiving without an airplane or parachute.
When it comes to things to do in Los Angeles, tourists are spoiled for choice. The City of Angels definitely offers more attractions than Las Vegas. Discover old and new Hollywood with a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio complex and see numerous interactive exhibits. For panoramic views of the city, we recommend spending a few hours at the OUE Skyspace. If you are visiting Los Angeles with the little ones, stop by the Natural History Museum to see the spectacular Dinosaur Hall. Beach lovers staying in Los Angeles will want to drive to popular tourist hotspots like Santa Monica and Malibu.
Los Angeles or Las Vegas: Nightlife
With chic nightclubs, swanky cocktail bars, comedy clubs, and awesome venues for live music performances, both Los Angeles and Las Vegas set the standard for world-class nightlife in the US. A playground for the celebrity set, the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles is home to popular music venues like the Roxy Theatre and the Viper Room. On this world-famous boulevard, you will also find comedy clubs such as The Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory.
Las Vegas nightlife is legendary! Party-goers and gamblers can look forward to visiting the famous Strip which is located along the Las Vegas Boulevard. Home to some of the world’s largest resort casinos, the Strip is without a doubt one of the best nightlife destinations in the US. Whether you wish to enjoy cocktails at the Golden Tiki, see a spectacular fountain show at the Bellagio, or dance the night away at XS, there is something for everyone here on the Strip.
To sum it all up, both Las Vegas and Los Angeles are top destinations for nightlife. Las Vegas is a place where everyone goes to party and gamble, while Los Angeles has more comedy clubs and live music venues.
Los Angeles or Las Vegas: Prices
Compared to other US cities like Atlanta and Chicago, we have to admit that both Los Angeles and Las Vegas are expensive. This comes as no surprise, as these two vibrant cities are extremely popular with tourists from all over the world.
Los Angeles is about 50% more expensive than Las Vegas. As for the cost of living in Las Vegas, it is drastically cheaper than in the L.A. Let’s just say that housing costs in Los Angeles are about 150 % more expensive than housing costs in Las Vegas.
But, if you are planning to visit Las Vegas and Los Angeles as a tourist, you won’t feel the drastic difference in prices. For instance, you can easily find an affordable Airbnb apartment in Los Angeles and still be close to all the cool tourist attractions. On the other hand, staying on the Strip in Las Vegas comes with a hefty price tag.
Los Angeles or Las Vegas: Food
Foodies visiting Los Angeles and Las Vegas will not be disappointed. Both cities are home to many dining establishments ranging from street food joints where you can try classic American dishes to upscale restaurants. In terms of food in the battle of Los Angeles VS Las Vegas, we have a tie!
A mecca for celebrity chefs, Las Vegas is a world-class culinary destination that promises to satisfy the most sophisticated palate. Expect to find a huge variety of dining options in the City of Lights including places like Buddy V’s Ristorante and Table 10. If you wish to try the original Maine-style lobster roll, reserve a table at Lobster ME in Las Vegas. Steak lovers can pay a visit to the Delmonico Steakhouse and enjoy food delicacies prepared by master chef Emeril Lagasse.
Los Angeles offers one of the most diverse dining scenes in the US. You will have an opportunity to sample a variety of classic LA dishes, as well as international cuisine in Los Angeles. Stop by Philippe’s in Downtown Los Angeles to try the signature Los Angeles French dipped sandwich. Are you in the mood for some juicy fried chicken and massive waffles? Make your way to one of the 7 locations of Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘N Waffles. The best ice cream sandwich in Los Angeles is served in Mashti Malone’s in Hollywood. For a classic Mexican breakfast burrito, we recommend Lowkey Burritos in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles or Las Vegas: Final Verdict
So, what is the final verdict in the battle of Los Angeles VS Las Vegas? If you are planning to live in one of these cities, our vote definitely goes to Las Vegas. It’s much cheaper to live in than Los Angeles and you won’t have to deal with those sick traffic jams.
If you are planning to visit Los Angeles and Las Vegas as a tourist, our verdict is not that simple and it really depends on what you want. While both cities have spectacular sights and activities, the majority of attractions in Las Vegas are located within a few miles of each other. Therefore, if you are thinking of a short weekend getaway, we think Las Vegas is the best option.