A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Dallas vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Dallas or Los Angeles?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dallas and Los Angeles can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dallas

Dallas is a chic, active, and upscale city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Dallas travel costs.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Dallas and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dallas or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Dallas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more touristy than Dallas and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Dallas is popular for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture.

How is Dallas different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dallas or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Los Angeles are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dallas can be an interesting and educational experience. Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Dallas is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Dallas is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Dallas or Los Angeles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Dallas has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Dallas has a large number of nightlife venues. Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for its live music scene. However, Dallas is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Dallas is not a live music destination.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Dallas is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Los Angeles. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Dallas is not a resort destination.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dallas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Dallas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is renowned for the beach. However, Dallas is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Dallas is not a beach destination.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Dallas is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Dallas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dallas or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Los Angeles make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Dallas. You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea markets.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dallas. The city is filled with families, and you'll find many kid-friendly activities around town. For some outdoor time you can visit the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden or the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas Zoo is a favorite for many kids and there are also a number of kid-friendly museums around town such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas World Aquarium.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Los Angeles has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Dallas makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Head to the observation deck at Reunion Tower for spectacular views of the night skyline. The city also has many great comedy clubs and performing arts venues as well as fine dining restaurants that make for a great date night.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Dallas is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Los Angeles is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Dallas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there are a couple of hostels around town, this isn't a popular destination for the backpacker crowd.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for students. However, Dallas is not a good city for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Dallas is a decent spot for students. There are a couple of universities and colleges in the area that keep things interesting for students.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Dallas and Los Angeles offer good public transit options.

Dallas has a few public transit options. While it's still very much a car-centered city, the public transportation system, DART, is one of the fastest growing in the country. It includes both light rail and bus service.

Los Angeles has some public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Dallas or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Los Angeles is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Dallas is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable place. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

Dallas is generally not a very walkable city. The city is not particularly walkable, but there are several more walkable areas such as Ellum and Uptown.

For even more information, also check out Is Dallas Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Dallas?

How long in Dallas or Los Angeles?

Both Dallas and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Dallas. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dallas, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

Couples should spend more time in Los Angeles than Dallas. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Dallas 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Dallas or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active city of Dallas. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Los Angeles is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dallas or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the active destination of Dallas. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Dallas or Los Angeles?

The upscale city of Dallas offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Los Angeles. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Dallas or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dallas. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Dallas and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Dallas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dallas would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dallas 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Dallas.

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

Which is Bigger, Dallas or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Dallas. When comparing the sizes of Dallas and Los Angeles, 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.

When is the best time to visit Dallas or Los Angeles?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dallas or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Dallas during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dallas in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Dallas is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dallas in July average around 88°F (31°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Dallas usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Dallas gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dallas or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dallas and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Dallas for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Dallas is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Dallas average around 69°F (21°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In October, Dallas usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Dallas gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dallas or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dallas as well as Los Angeles. The winter months attract visitors to Dallas because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

Dallas is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Dallas averages around 46°F (8°C) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Dallas usually gets less rain in January than Los Angeles. Dallas gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dallas or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Dallas are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Dallas this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Dallas is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dallas in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In April, Dallas usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Dallas gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Dallas