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

Should you visit Gainesville or Los Angeles?

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

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

Gainesville

Gainesville is a high energy, active, and vibrant city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a diverse, multicultural, and sprawling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and theater.

Gainesville and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gainesville or Los Angeles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Los Angeles than Gainesville. Los Angeles is bigger than Gainesville, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is more touristy than Gainesville 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. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. Gainesville is well known for being the home of the University of Florida

How is Gainesville different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Los Angeles that are not to be missed. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Gainesville. There's a surprising number of museums around town such as the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Also fascinating is the Historic Haile Homestead, the Butterfly Rainforest, and the city's planetarium.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is notable for theatre. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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.

Gainesville has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Casual eateries are popular around town, particularly with the student population. There are grills, diners, and bistros that serve local dishes at affordable prices.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is very popular for nightlife. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Los Angeles is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Gainesville has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife centers around the student population. The two main party areas are Midtown and Downtown. Midtown is between Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 18th Street and it's convenient for students who live on campus. The area has a great stretch of bars and clubs. The Downtown area has many of the city's top clubs, and it's popular with upperclassmen and students who live off campus.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is very popular for live music. However, Gainesville is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is a world class music destination. 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.

Gainesville is not a live music destination.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is notable for its resorts. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a resort destination.

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

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is very popular for its beaches. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a beach destination.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Gainesville or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is very popular for shopping. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Los Angeles is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Gainesville. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town such as malls, shopping centers, and retail outlets. Two popular areas are the Neighborhoods at Butler and Celebration Pointe.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Families?

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

Gainesville is a family-friendly city. You'll find outdoor activities, nature parks, and a couple of museums that will appeal to all ages. Highlights for families include A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, the Adventure Outpost, and Alfred A. Ring Park.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is very popular for romance. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Gainesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wine tasting and fine dining or enjoying the city's many outdoor activities. Go on a picnic or explore one of the museums in Downtown Gainesville.

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

Los Angeles is notable for backpackers. However, Gainesville is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Gainesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many travelers, but there are some cheap motels where budget travelers can stay.

Is Gainesville or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is very popular for students. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Gainesville. As the location of the University of Florida, you'll find many students around town. This keeps the energy high with plenty of evening activities and affordable entertainment options.

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

Both Gainesville and Los Angeles offer notable public transit options.

Gainesville has a few public transit options. There's a decent bus system that's free to students and employees of the university.

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 Gainesville or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Gainesville and Los Angeles both are notable when exploring on foot.

Gainesville is somewhat walkable. Biking is actually a popular way to get around town and some areas are pedestrian-friendly.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Gainesville?

How long in Gainesville or Los Angeles?

Both Gainesville 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 Gainesville. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Gainesville, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Gainesville. 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.

Los Angeles is a energetic city where you can fill many days. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Gainesville or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the high energy destination of Gainesville. 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 sprawling big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Gainesville or Los Angeles?

The vibrant city of Gainesville 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.

Los Angeles is a sprawling city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Gainesville or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Gainesville. 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 big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Gainesville or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Gainesville. When comparing the sizes of Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Gainesville during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Gainesville for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, 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 July, Gainesville is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Gainesville average around 81°F (27°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gainesville. Gainesville usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Gainesville gets 6.8 inches (174 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gainesville or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Gainesville and Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Gainesville in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, 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.

Gainesville is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Gainesville averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In October, Gainesville usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Gainesville gets 2 inches (51 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Gainesville is June to November.

Should I visit Gainesville or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Gainesville as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Gainesville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Gainesville is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Gainesville in January average around 54°F (12°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 55°F (13°C).

Gainesville usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Los Angeles. Gainesville gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gainesville or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Gainesville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In April, Gainesville is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Gainesville average around 69°F (20°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Gainesville usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Gainesville gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Gainesville.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Gainesville