A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Los Angeles vs. Sun Valley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Los Angeles or Sun Valley?

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 Sun Valley. 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 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a active, adventurous, and outdoorsy town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Los Angeles and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Sun Valley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Sun Valley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Sun Valley is more popular for its skiing and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Sun Valley 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. Sun Valley is well known for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway.

How is Los Angeles different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

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

Sun Valley is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Los Angeles is not a skiing destination.

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

Los Angeles is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Sun Valley is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great destination for theatre. However, Sun Valley is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. 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.

Sun Valley is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Sun Valley has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is terrific for nightlife. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Los Angeles is a must-see party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Sun Valley has a few options to choose from. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Music?

Los Angeles is terrific for live music. However, Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

There are excellent resorts to choose from in both Los Angeles and Sun Valley.

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.

Sun Valley is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is terrific for its beaches. However, Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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 Sun Valley for the hiking trails. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Sun Valley?

Los Angeles is terrific for shopping. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Sun Valley. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Both Los Angeles and Sun Valley are terrific family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Sun Valley is a very family-friendly destination. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Los Angeles and Sun Valley both terrific destinations for a couple.

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Sun Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles and Sun Valley are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Sun Valley. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Is Los Angeles or Sun Valley Better for Students?

Los Angeles is terrific for students. However, Sun Valley is not popular with students.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit 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.

Sun Valley is not popular with students.

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

Sun Valley is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Sun Valley. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Los Angeles or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Sun Valley is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Sun Valley. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

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 Sun Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Sun Valley?

Both Los Angeles and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Los Angeles than Sun Valley. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Los Angeles, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sun Valley.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Sun Valley. 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 Sun Valley. 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 Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley?

When visiting Los Angeles, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the adventurous town of Sun Valley. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the skiing. 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 Sun Valley?

When visiting Los Angeles, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous destination of Sun Valley. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This 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 Sun Valley?

Los Angeles, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous town of Sun Valley. 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 Sun Valley?

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Sun Valley. 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. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

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

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 Sun Valley Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Sun Valley?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 2510 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles and Sun Valley, 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.