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

Should you visit Detroit or Los Angeles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Los Angeles, 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a multicultural, sprawling, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Detroit and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Detroit or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Detroit, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more touristy than Detroit and is known 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. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

How is Detroit different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Los Angeles are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a very popular place for its theatre productions. However, Detroit is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. 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.

Detroit is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Los Angeles is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Los Angeles is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Detroit is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Detroit and Los Angeles.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Detroit. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

In Los Angeles you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

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

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. 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.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Los Angeles draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Los Angeles draws large crowds to its stores. 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 go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

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

Los Angeles is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Detroit is not popular with students.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. 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.

Detroit is not popular with students.

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

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Detroit or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Detroit and Los Angeles are good when it comes to walkability.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Los Angeles?

Both Detroit 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 Detroit. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 Detroit or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the overlooked city of Detroit. Most people visit for the live music. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Detroit or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the hardworking destination of Detroit. 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.

Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Detroit or Los Angeles?

The under-rated city of Detroit offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Detroit or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Detroit. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the live music. 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 Los Angeles. Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Detroit or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Detroit. When comparing the sizes of Detroit 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 Detroit or Los Angeles?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Detroit or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Detroit is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Detroit in July average around 74°F (24°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In July, Detroit usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Detroit or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Detroit during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Detroit in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Detroit is generally cooler than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 54°F (12°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Detroit usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Detroit or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Detroit for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Detroit can be very cold during winter. Detroit is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In January, Detroit usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Detroit or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Los Angeles. The spring months attract visitors to Detroit because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In the spring, Detroit is much colder than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Detroit in April average around 49°F (9°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Detroit usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Detroit