A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Minneapolis for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit La Paz or Minneapolis?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Minneapolis can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a beautiful, authentic, and cultural city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a innovative, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

La Paz and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in La Paz or Minneapolis?

Both Minneapolis and La Paz have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. La Paz is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Minneapolis is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. La Paz is more touristy than Minneapolis and is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. Minneapolis is well known for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people.

How is La Paz different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Minneapolis?

La Paz
Minneapolis

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both La Paz and Minneapolis.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Minneapolis. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Minneapolis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Minneapolis

La Paz is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

La Paz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Minneapolis area. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Minneapolis has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Minneapolis

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Minneapolis is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, La Paz makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.


Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Minneapolis

La Paz is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Minneapolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to La Paz to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Minneapolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Minneapolis

La Paz is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

The beaches in La Paz are among the best in the world. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Minneapolis?

La Paz
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Minneapolis make it a world-class shopping destination. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.


Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Families?

La Paz
Minneapolis

Both La Paz and Minneapolis are high quality to visit with kids.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Minneapolis. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

La Paz
Minneapolis

Both La Paz and Minneapolis are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

La Paz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Minneapolis is a good city for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Minneapolis

La Paz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.


Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Students?

La Paz
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is notable for students. However, La Paz is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

La Paz is not popular with students.

Is La Paz or Minneapolis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz
Minneapolis

Both La Paz and Minneapolis offer notable public transit options.

La Paz has a few public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Minneapolis has some public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Is La Paz or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

La Paz
Minneapolis

La Paz is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

La Paz is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.


For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either La Paz or Minneapolis. In our opinion, La Paz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in La Paz than Minneapolis. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in La Paz than Minneapolis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in La Paz that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Minneapolis 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Minneapolis? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Minneapolis 2-4

One day in La Paz or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the cultural city of La Paz. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Minneapolis. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of La Paz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Minneapolis?

The authentic city of La Paz offers museums and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Minneapolis. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in La Paz or Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting La Paz. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dynamic destination of Minneapolis. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Minneapolis or La Paz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $118, while the average daily cost in Minneapolis is $206. 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 La Paz and Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Minneapolis? 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 La Paz


Hotels in Minneapolis


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Minneapolis $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • Private Transfer from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas: $241
  • Roundtrip Transfer to La Paz International Airport: $73
  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • La Paz Int. Airport (LAP): Private Transfer to La Paz hotels: $174
  • La Paz Airport: Private Roundtrip Transfer to La Ventan: $259
  • La Paz Airport to Costa Baja Private Roundtrip Transfer: $89

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

Also for Minneapolis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Arrival Private Transfer: $69
  • Private Departure Transfer to Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $138

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis and La Paz 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
    La Paz $38
    Minneapolis $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 4 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $82

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Minneapolis Food Tour - Walking: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $13
    Minneapolis $27

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $133
  • Balandra & San Rafaelito: Sightseeing & Snorkelling: $135
  • Balandra Beach and City Tour: $128
  • Balandra Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $135
  • Can-Am X3 Turbo Adventure: Cabo Desert Trails & Beach Ride: $291
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $91
  • Cruise Date Delight! Swim with Sea Lions! Apr-02: $186
  • Espíritu Santo Island snorkel and sightseeing tour on Small Group: $169
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $139

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Mighty Mississippi Self Guided Minneapolis Riverside Tour: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Mighty Mississippi: A Self-Guided Riverside Walking Tour: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Saint Paul by Operation City Quest: $10
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the Riverfront: $11
  • Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field: $14
  • St. Paul Historic Cave Tour: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Minneapolis with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Lost Souls Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $12
    Minneapolis $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

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

  • History and 4-Bar Crawl Guided Walking Tour: $69
  • All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour: $85
  • 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour: $100


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

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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of La Paz. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Minneapolis, 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 La Paz or Minneapolis?

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 La Paz or Minneapolis in the Summer?

Both Minneapolis and La Paz during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

La Paz is a little warmer than Minneapolis in the summer. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

In Minneapolis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the summer, La Paz often gets less sunshine than Minneapolis. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Minneapolis. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Minneapolis. The autumn months attract visitors to La Paz because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

In the autumn, La Paz is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Paz in October average around 27°C (80°F), and Minneapolis averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Minneapolis. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Minneapolis in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Minneapolis. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Minneapolis. In January, La Paz is generally much warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 18°C (65°F), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 15°F (-10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Minneapolis. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Minneapolis. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Minneapolis in the Spring?

Both Minneapolis and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Minneapolis in the spring for the activities around the city.

La Paz is much warmer than Minneapolis in the spring. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 23°C (73°F) in April, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Minneapolis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 244 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Minneapolis. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and La Paz

La Paz Minneapolis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)