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

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Should you visit Aspen or Las Vegas?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Aspen and Las Vegas can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Aspen

Aspen is a authentic, charming, and quaint ski town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and live music.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a entertaining, sexy, and glamourous entertainment capital. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Aspen and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Aspen
Pros
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Las Vegas
Pros
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less family-friendly


How is Aspen different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aspen or Las Vegas Better for Food?

Aspen
Las Vegas

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Aspen and Las Vegas.

Many restaurants in Aspen have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants.

Eat your way through Las Vegas, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city 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.


Is Aspen or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Aspen
Las Vegas

It's hard to distinguish whether Aspen or Las Vegas has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing.

Las Vegas has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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 Aspen or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Aspen
Las Vegas

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Aspen or Las Vegas.

Aspen has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Las Vegas is known as a music capital around the world. The city has 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.

Is Aspen or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Aspen
Las Vegas

If luxury resorts are your style, both Aspen and Las Vegas have options.

In Aspen, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Vacationers flock to Las Vegas for its luxury resorts. 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.

Is Aspen or Las Vegas Better for Shopping?

Aspen
Las Vegas

Shopping is a popular activity in both Las Vegas and Aspen.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Aspen. The has many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

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 by designer names or visit flagship stores.


Is Aspen or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Aspen
Las Vegas

Both Aspen and Las Vegas are fun to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aspen. Families that enjoy skiing together hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

For families, Las Vegas is not always the best place to visit. 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 Aspen or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Aspen
Las Vegas

Both Aspen and Las Vegas are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Aspen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy.

Las Vegas is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Aspen or Las Vegas Better for Public Transit?

Aspen
Las Vegas

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aspen and Las Vegas.

You'll find some public transit in Aspen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

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 Aspen or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Aspen
Las Vegas

Aspen and Las Vegas both are comparable when exploring on foot.

Aspen is a very walkable destination. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

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.


Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Aspen?

How long in Aspen or Las Vegas?

Both Aspen 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 Aspen.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Aspen is 3-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Las Vegas is 2-7 days.


  • How many days in Aspen or Las Vegas? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aspen 3-5 
    Las Vegas 2-7

One day in Aspen or Las Vegas?

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Aspen or Las Vegas?

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music. 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 ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Las Vegas. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Aspen or Las Vegas?

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski town has to offer.

Las Vegas is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Aspen or Las Vegas?

Aspen 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.

Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Which city is cheaper, Las Vegas or Aspen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aspen is $235, while the average daily cost in Las Vegas is $246. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aspen and Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aspen $136
    Las Vegas $127
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aspen $272
    Las Vegas $254
Compare Hotels in Aspen and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Aspen 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 Aspen


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: Aspen Hotel Prices and Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aspen $45
    Las Vegas $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aspen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aspen:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Aspen Airport (ASE): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Aspen Airport (ASE): $36
  • Private Eagle County Regional Airport Transfer to Aspen: $400
  • Aspen hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $796
  • Private Transfer: Aspen to Denver International Airport (DEN): $1,321

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:

  • Airport Transfer - Round Trip to or from Your Hotel: $165
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Las Vegas Airport to Las Vegas City by Business Sedan: $48
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Las Vegas Airport to Las Vegas city in Luxury SUV: $59
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Las Vegas Airport to Las Vegas city in Tesla X: $54
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Las Vegas Airport LAS to Las Vegas in Business Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Las Vegas Airport LAS to Las Vegas in Luxury Car: $163
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Las Vegas Airport LAS to Las Vegas in Luxury SUV: $149
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Las Vegas Airport LAS to Las Vegas in Luxury Van: $141
  • Departure Private Transfer Las Vegas City to Las Vegas Airport by Business Sedan: $48
  • Departure Private Transfer Las Vegas to Los Angeles Airport LAX by Executive SUV: $1,818
  • Departure Private Transfer Las Vegas to Los Angeles Airport LAX by Minibus: $1,928
  • Departure Private Transfer Las Vegas to Los Angeles Airport LAX by SUV: $1,653

Is it cheaper to fly into Aspen or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and Aspen 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
    Aspen $68
    Las Vegas $64

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.

  • Only On The Strip Food Tour: $79
  • The "What The Frog?" Senor Frogs Dinner Package: $80
  • Chinatown Vegan Food Tour: $87
  • Downtown Vegan Food Tour: $87
  • Walking Food Tour of Downtown Las Vegas: $99
  • Evening Walking Food Tour on the Las Vegas Strip: $103
  • Walking Food Tour of the Las Vegas Strip: $103
  • Fremont Street Dinner Tour with Photographer: $129
  • Secret Food Tours Las Vegas: $136
  • Downtown Las Vegas Food Tour by Segway: $149
  • Wild West Sunset Horseback Ride with Dinner from Las Vegas: $150
  • Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Las Vegas: $156

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aspen $36
    Las Vegas $63

Tours and Activities in Aspen

Here are a few actual costs in Aspen for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aspen's DarkSide Ghost Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Past to Present Historic Tour: $40
  • Glimpse of Aspen Tour: $40

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:

  • SeaQuest Las Vegas - Single Day Passport Ticket: $13
  • Las Vegas Natural History Museum Admission Ticket: $14
  • Skip the Line: Springs Preserve in Las Vegas Admission Ticket: $15
  • Haunts and The Mob Las Vegas Walking Tour: $18
  • Axe Throwing Experience in Las Vegas: $20
  • Las Vegas Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Skip the Line: Nostalgia Street Rods Museum Ticket and Optional VIP Tour: $21
  • The High Roller at The LINQ Ticket: $21
  • Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck Ticket: $24
  • Boulder City Historic District Self-Guided Tour from Las Vegas: $25
  • From Boulder City Self-Guided Tour: $25
  • Madame Tussauds Las Vegas Admission Ticket: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aspen $16
    Las Vegas $44

Sample the Local Flavors in Las Vegas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Las Vegas:

  • Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino: $49
  • Fantasy Burlesque Show at Luxor Hotel & Casino: $61
  • The Weird, Wacky and Wonderful Bar Crawl of Fremont Street: $89
  • Las Vegas Bar Crawl: $90
  • Las Vegas Brewery Tour by Party Bus: $103
  • Bar Crawl On Fremont Street: $260
  • Small Group Pahrump Wine Tasting with Death Valley Sightseeing and Stargazing: $295

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Aspen and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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Aspen vs. Las Vegas Travel Comparison

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