A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Key West or Las Vegas?

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

Should I visit Key West or Las Vegas? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a bustling, active, and lively town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West travel costs.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a entertaining, sexy, and glamourous entertainment capital. 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 museums, theater, and nightlife. See Las Vegas travel costs.

Key West and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Strip
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Key West or Las Vegas?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Las Vegas. Although Key West and Las Vegas are popular destinations, Las Vegas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Las Vegas is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Key West attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is famous for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Las Vegas is famous for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also well known for The Strip.

How is Key West different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is notable for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Las Vegas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Key West is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Las Vegas draw crowds from around the world. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Key West is not a theatre destination.

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

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Las Vegas is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Las Vegas is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.


Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its live music scene. However, Key West is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Las Vegas 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.

Key West is not a live music destination.

Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its resorts. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Las Vegas is a great choice. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West
Las Vegas

Key West is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for Beaches?

Key West
Las Vegas

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

Many people visit Key West for it's beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for its Old Town?

Key West
Las Vegas

Key West is notable for its historic old town. However, Las Vegas does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Las Vegas does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Las Vegas?

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Las Vegas make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.


Is Key West or Las Vegas More Beautiful?

Key West
Las Vegas

Key West is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Key West
Las Vegas

Key West is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

Key West is a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Las Vegas makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.


Is Key West or Las Vegas Better for Students?

Key West
Las Vegas

Key West is notable for students. However, Las Vegas is not popular with students.

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Las Vegas is not popular with students.

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

Key West
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a moderate entertainment capital for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Key West
Las Vegas

Key West and Las Vegas both are nice when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Key West?

How long in Key West or Las Vegas?

Both Key West and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Las Vegas has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Las Vegas than Key West. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Las Vegas than Key West 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 Las Vegas.


  • How many days in Key West or Las Vegas? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key West 5-7 
    Las Vegas 2-7

One day in Key West or Las Vegas?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Las Vegas is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Las Vegas?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the eclectic destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Las Vegas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Las Vegas, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Las Vegas?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quirky town of Key West. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Las Vegas is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Las Vegas, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Key West or Las Vegas?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Las Vegas has to offer. This entertainment capital offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Las Vegas or Key West?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Key West Prices
    USA Prices
    Las Vegas Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key West $832
    Las Vegas $369

The average daily cost (per person) in Key West is $832, while the average daily cost in Las Vegas is $369. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Key West and Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key West $132
    Las Vegas $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key West $264
    Las Vegas $316
Compare Hotels in Key West and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Key West or Las Vegas? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Key West


Hotels in Las Vegas


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Key West Hotel Prices and Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key West $51
    Las Vegas $53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Key West

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Key West:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key West

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Key West:

  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $54
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Key West Airport EYW: $144
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West - Arrival Private Transfer: $176
  • Key West to Key West Airport (EYW) - Departure Private Transfer: $176

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • 24 Hr Bus Pass
    $15
  • 24 hrs Deuce Bus
    $7.00
  • Taxi from Airport to the Strip
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Las Vegas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Las Vegas:

  • LAS Airport Private Transfer to Las Vegas City: $17
  • Private Departure Transfer Las Vegas City to LAS Airport: $18
  • Las Vegas Airport (LAS) / Transfer to hotels on the Strip.: $27
  • Manila to Manila Int Airport (MNL) - Departure Private Transfer: $35
  • Las Vegas Airport Private Transfer to Las Vegas (Special Offer): $36
  • Transfer Airport to Hotel or Hotel to Airport : $39
  • Las Vegas Private Transfer from Downtown to Airport (LAS): $49
  • One Way Private Transfer to/from McCarran Airport: $50
  • Private Transfer from Manila Cruise Port to Manila Airport (MNL): $52
  • Private Transfer from Manila Cruise Port to Manila city hotels: $52
  • Private Departure Transfer to Las Vegas Airport (LAS): $54
  • Private One-way Transfer Harry Reid Airport To Las Vegas: $57

Is it cheaper to fly into Key West or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and Key West change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Key West $667
    Las Vegas $139

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Key West

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Key West.

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar & Live Music: $81
  • Key West Sunset Cruise: Dinner, Live Music & Drinks Included: $93
  • Southernmost Food & Cultural Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $93
  • Key West Sunset Buffet Dinner Cruise with Open Bar and Live Music: $100
  • Secret Walking Food Tour: $108
  • Sunset Sail Full Bar, Live Music & Dinner & Early Morning Snorkeling: $160
  • The Hemingway Experience by Key West Food Tours: $185
  • Key West Fishing Charter: Catch your Dinner!: $800

Typical Food Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of dining costs in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • Coffee
    $5.00
  • Deep Fried Twinkie
    $1.07
  • Chocolate Dip Banana
    $1.07
  • Gelato
    $5.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Las Vegas

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Las Vegas.

  • Guest Artists Chuck Wagon Dinner Show in Henderson: $49
  • Wranglers Gone Rock Firelight Barn Dinner Theater: $49
  • Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show at the Firelight Barn in Henderson: $49
  • Manila Night Market and Food tour experience with Local guide: $62
  • Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites: $65
  • Manila Food Tour Experience with Venus: $70
  • Makati Street Food tour Experience with Mari: $73
  • Las Vegas Downtown walking Secret Food Tour: $87
  • Market Tour and Provincial Filipino Cooking Class in the Countryside: $88
  • Downtown Las Vegas Food Tour: $89
  • 'Fremont Flavors' - Vegas Food Tour : $99
  • Explore Las Vegas Culinary Scene Cooking: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key West $33
    Las Vegas $78

Tours and Activities in Key West

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Key West are as follows:

  • Key West History Audio Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Key West Smartphone guided Ghost Walking Tour App/GPS/EMF Reader: $7.75
  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Audio Tours to Walk, Bike, or Drive in Key West: $9.99
  • Bike Key West Beaches and Back Roads Audio Tour: $11
  • Cruise Through Key West's Black History Audio Tour: $11
  • Easy Stroll (or Bike) Through Downtown Key West Audio Tour: $11
  • Maritime Village to Micro State: A Self Guided Tour of Key West: $12
  • Key West GPS Audio Tour: From Seaside Village to Micro State: $12
  • Key West’s Old Town Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Miami: Key West Boat Tour w/ Optional Snorkeling & Open Bar: $18
  • Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum Tickets: $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • Wedding Chapel
    $139
  • Atomic Testing Museum (two people)
    $12
  • Gondola Ride (4 person)
    $64
  • Monorail Ride
    $5.00
  • NY NY Rollercoaster
    $14
  • Circus Circus Adventure Dome Day Pass
    $26

Tours and Activities in Las Vegas

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Las Vegas are as follows:

  • Downtown Las Vegas Self Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Las Vegas’ Glitter Gulch, Ghosts and Gangsters: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign Audio Tour : $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Dowtown Las Vegas: $10
  • Las Vegas Strip: Exploration Game and Tour: $11
  • Ghost of Quest Experience: $11
  • Audio Driving Tour: Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam Red Rock Canyon: $15
  • Las Vegas Strip: The High Roller at The LINQ Ticket: $18
  • High Roller Wheel Admission Ticket at The LINQ: $18
  • Las Vegas Historic Red Light: A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $20
  • Skip the Line: Nostalgia Street Rods Museum Ticket and Optional VIP Tour: $20
  • Hola Intramuros Historical Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key West $16
    Las Vegas $55

Sample the Local Flavors in Key West

Also in Key West, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour with Free T-Shirt: $32
  • Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl: $32
  • 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl: $43

Sample the Local Flavors in Las Vegas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Las Vegas:

  • Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum Admission: $12
  • Off The Beaten Path Bar Crawl: $15
  • Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $30
  • Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl: $35
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl (party bus add-on option): $36
  • Bars Unknown: The Original Las Vegas Strip Bar Crawl: $49
  • Las Vegas Bar Crawl by Party Bus with Free Drinks: $49
  • Zombie Burlesque Comedy Musical Show Ticket: $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $50
  • Bars Unknown: The Original Las Vegas Strip Bar Crawl: $59
  • Las Vegas Country Bar Crawl by Party Bus w/ Free Drinks: $59
  • Country Bar Crawl by Party Bus w/ Mixed Drinks: $59


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Las Vegas, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Las Vegas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Las Vegas would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Las Vegas 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West than you might in Las Vegas.

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


Which is Bigger, Key West or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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.