A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Las Vegas vs. Salt Lake City for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Las Vegas and Salt Lake City. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a ritzy, colorful, and sinful entertainment capital. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a religious, architectural, and notable city. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, hiking, and shopping.

Las Vegas and Salt Lake City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

You'll generally find more things to do in Las Vegas than Salt Lake City. Las Vegas is bigger than Salt Lake City, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Las Vegas is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Salt Lake City is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and hiking. Las Vegas is more touristy than Salt Lake City and is popular for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. Also, Las Vegas is famous for The Strip. Salt Lake City is well known for its religious landmarks and its large Mormon population.

How is Las Vegas different from Salt Lake City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

Both Las Vegas and Salt Lake City have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Las Vegas. 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.

Salt Lake City offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the fascinating sights around town are influenced by the city's Mormon culture. Temple Square is a highlight for most visitors. It spans 35 acres and is beautifully landscaped with several fountains. There are also four main churches - The Temple, the Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and Assembly Hall. The city also has several museums such as the Natural History Museum and the historic Liberty Park.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for its shows and theatre. However, Salt Lake City is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Las Vegas is world-class. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Salt Lake City is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Las Vegas has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Salt Lake City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. In recent years the food scene has really improved and you'll find a variety of restaurants that serve everything from upscale dishes to more casual fare.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Salt Lake City is lacking in good options for nightlife.

People head to Las Vegas just to party. 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.

Salt Lake City is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Known for its large Mormon population, nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Salt Lake City. While it will likely never be a party city, there are a growing number of entertainment options around town.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Music?

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Salt Lake City is not a live music destination.

Las Vegas has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Salt Lake City is not a live music destination.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Salt Lake City is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Las Vegas is a perfect 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.

Salt Lake City is not a resort destination.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City. There are a number of good ski resorts nearby, making this a good base or starting point for a ski vacation.

Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Hiking?

Salt Lake City is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Salt Lake City offers some nice hiking trails. The city offers easy access to many diverse trails, so if you're a nature enthusiasts, you'll appreciate this destination.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Las Vegas specifically to go shopping. 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.

Salt Lake City is a great destination for shopping. The city has sprawling outlet malls as well as local stores and craft shops. City Creek Center is a favorite shopping destination, but there are also several large shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Families?

Salt Lake City is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

Salt Lake City is a family-friendly place to visit. There are museums that kids will enjoy like the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Leonardo Museum. There are also fun-filled activities like a visit to Lagoon Amusement Park. You can learn about history at This Is the Place Heritage Park or learn about the undersea world at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium.

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 Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Couples?

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Las Vegas has plenty to offer. 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.

Salt Lake City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with beautiful gardens like Red Butte Garden. There are also nice restaurants and romantic hotels that will make this a nice place for a couple's getaway.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Salt Lake City is a good destination for its public transit. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for times when you don't have a car.

Salt Lake City has a few public transit options. There's a surprisingly good public transit system that includes light rail, buses, and commuter trains, but if you want to get out of town you'll need to have a car.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Is Las Vegas or Salt Lake City a more walkable city?

Las Vegas is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Salt Lake City is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable entertainment capital. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

Salt Lake City is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are walkable, like Temple Square, most visitors prefer to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting? and Is Salt Lake City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salt Lake City or Las Vegas?

How long in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Las Vegas and Salt Lake City. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Las Vegas than in Salt Lake City. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Las Vegas, and 2-3 days is enough time in Salt Lake City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Las Vegas than Salt Lake City 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.

One day in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

Because Las Vegas is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Salt Lake City. 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.

A weekend in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

Las Vegas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find museums and food around the notable destination of Salt Lake City. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Las Vegas. It's also a relaxing resort destination. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the architectural city of Salt Lake City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

Because Las Vegas is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Salt Lake City is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Las Vegas or Salt Lake City?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Salt Lake City. When comparing the sizes of Las Vegas and Salt Lake City, 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.