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

Should you visit Los Angeles or Aspen?

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 Los Angeles and Aspen. 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.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling, energetic, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Aspen

Aspen is a outdoorsy, authentic, and charming ski town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Los Angeles and Aspen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Aspen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles. Although Los Angeles and Aspen are popular destinations, Los Angeles has more sights and attractions for tourists. Los Angeles is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Aspen attracts visitors for its skiing, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Los Angeles is more touristy than Aspen 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. It is also well known for Hollywood. Aspen is famous for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes.

How is Los Angeles different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Aspen is renowned for skiing and snowboarding. However, Los Angeles is not a skiing destination.

Aspen is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Los Angeles is not a skiing destination.

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

Los Angeles is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. 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.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Aspen is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. 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.

Aspen is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at fantastic restaurants in both Los Angeles and Aspen.

Eat your way through Los Angeles, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

For foodies, Aspen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

The nightlife in Aspen has something for everybody. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for its music scene. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for live music.

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.

Aspen has a thriving music scene. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Resorts?

There are very good resorts to choose from in both Los Angeles and Aspen.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Aspen is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

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

Los Angeles is a city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aspen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Los Angeles. 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.

Aspen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is renowned for the beach. However, Aspen is not a beach destination.

Los Angeles is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Aspen is not a beach destination.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is renowned for its hiking experiences. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Los Angeles visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Many visitors go to Aspen for the hiking trails. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Aspen?

Los Angeles is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Los Angeles is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Christmas?

Aspen is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Los Angeles does not offer Christmas activities.

Aspen offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Christmas Markets?

Aspen is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Los Angeles does not offer Christmas markets.

Aspen has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Families?

Los Angeles is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is renowned for couples. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Los Angeles is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Aspen is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

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

Los Angeles is a great destination for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for students. However, Aspen is not popular with students.

Los Angeles is a very popular city 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.

Aspen is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Los Angeles and Aspen.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Aspen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

Is Los Angeles or Aspen a more walkable city?

Aspen is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Aspen is a very walkable destination. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. 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 Los Angeles Worth Visiting? and Is Aspen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aspen or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Aspen?

In either Los Angeles or Aspen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than Aspen because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Los Angeles, and 3-5 days is enough time in Aspen.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Aspen. 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 Aspen. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Aspen 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 Los Angeles or Aspen?

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. 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 Los Angeles or Aspen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Los Angeles. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This ski town 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 Los Angeles or Aspen?

Los Angeles is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Los Angeles or Aspen?

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Since Aspen is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Los Angeles and Aspen, we can see that Aspen is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Aspen?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 640 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles and Aspen, 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.