A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. South Lake Tahoe for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe?

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

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

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a idyllic, scenic, and breathtaking town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Atlanta and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlanta. Although Atlanta and South Lake Tahoe are both popular with visitors, Atlanta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Atlanta is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while South Lake Tahoe is known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. South Lake Tahoe is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. Atlanta is popular for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also home to the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Atlanta different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

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

South Lake Tahoe draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Atlanta is not a skiing destination.

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

Atlanta is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Atlanta are among the most recognizable in the world. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

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 Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta is a well-known place 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Atlanta. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

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 Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

South Lake Tahoe is a must-see party destination. 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.

Atlanta offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Is Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

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

South Lake Tahoe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Is Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe is terrific for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, South Lake Tahoe draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe?

Atlanta is an amazing city 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 Atlanta make it a world-class shopping destination. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

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 Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Is Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe is terrific for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

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

For backpackers, both Atlanta and South Lake Tahoe are good places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

South Lake Tahoe is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Is Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Students?

Atlanta is a well-known place for students. However, South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

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

Atlanta and South Lake Tahoe both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

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.

Is Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

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

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

How long in Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Atlanta because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 3-5 days is enough time in South Lake Tahoe.

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

One day in Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe?

People visit Atlanta because there is so much to do. 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.

In South Lake Tahoe, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe?

People visit Atlanta because there is so much to do. 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.

In South Lake Tahoe, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe?

Atlanta 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.

South Lake Tahoe is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that South Lake Tahoe has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe?

Atlanta 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in South Lake Tahoe. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting South Lake Tahoe. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Atlanta or South Lake Tahoe?

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