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

Should you visit Charleston or Las Vegas?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Las Vegas

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

Charleston and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Las Vegas?

You'll generally find more things to do in Las Vegas than Charleston. Las Vegas is bigger than Charleston, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Las Vegas is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, resorts, and big city activities, while Charleston is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Las Vegas is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. Also, Las Vegas is famous for The Strip. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses.

How is Charleston different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charleston or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit 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.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Charleston 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.

Charleston is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Charleston or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Charleston and Las Vegas can be difficult as they are each world-class in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Many restaurants in Las Vegas have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its music scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for live music.

In Las Vegas you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

You'll find some good live music in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal 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.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Beaches?

Charleston is notable for its beaches. However, Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Charleston for it's beautiful beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is very popular for its historic old town. However, Las Vegas does not have a historic old town.

Charleston has a world-famous historical area. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Las Vegas does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Las Vegas?

Both Charleston and Las Vegas are world-class shopping destinations.

Charleston is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

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 buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Christmas?

Charleston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Las Vegas does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Las Vegas does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a good destination for its Christmas markets. However, Las Vegas does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Las Vegas does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Charleston is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

Charleston is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

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 Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Charleston and Las Vegas are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Las Vegas is a great coastal 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 Charleston or Las Vegas Better for Students?

Charleston is a good destination for students. However, Las Vegas is not popular with students.

Charleston is a good coastal town to visit for students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Las Vegas is not popular with students.

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

Both Charleston and Las Vegas offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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 Charleston or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Charleston 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.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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 Charleston Worth Visiting? and Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Las Vegas?

Both Charleston and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Charleston than Las Vegas. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Charleston than Las Vegas. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Charleston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston 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 Charleston.

One day in Charleston or Las Vegas?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint coastal town of Charleston. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

When visiting Las Vegas, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Charleston or Las Vegas?

You'll find live music and food around the charming destination of Charleston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

When visiting Las Vegas, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this entertainment capital.

Five days in Charleston or Las Vegas?

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque coastal town of Charleston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

Las Vegas, a popular entertainment capital, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this entertainment capital. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Charleston or Las Vegas?

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this entertainment capital has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charleston and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. And not only is Charleston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charleston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charleston 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 Charleston.

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Charleston 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.