A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Los Angeles for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Families

Should you visit New Orleans or Los Angeles?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Los Angeles 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.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a energetic, fun-filled, and festive city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the food, nightlife, and live music.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a energetic, dynamic, and glamourous city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

New Orleans and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Los Angeles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Los Angeles than New Orleans. Los Angeles is bigger than New Orleans, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while New Orleans is more popular for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. New Orleans is well known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Los Angeles is well known 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.

How is New Orleans different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Los Angeles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for theatre. However, New Orleans 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.

New Orleans is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both New Orleans and Los Angeles both to be fantastic destinations.

Many restaurants in New Orleans have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

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.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Both New Orleans and Los Angeles have fantastic vibes after the sun sets.

People head to New Orleans just to party. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

The nightlife in Los Angeles is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either New Orleans and Los Angeles.

New Orleans is known as a music capital around the world. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Los Angeles 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.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

In Los Angeles, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, New Orleans 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.

New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, New Orleans 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.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

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.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Los Angeles. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

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

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

New Orleans is popular with students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

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

Los Angeles is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is New Orleans or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

New Orleans and Los Angeles are notable when it comes to walkability.

New Orleans is somewhat walkable. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable place. 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 New Orleans Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Los Angeles?

Both New Orleans and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in New Orleans. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for New Orleans, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the festive city of New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Los Angeles is a diverse city where you can fill many days. 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 New Orleans or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the festive destination of New Orleans. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Los Angeles is a dynamic big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city 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 New Orleans or Los Angeles?

The festive city of New Orleans offers food and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Los Angeles is a dynamic city where you can fill many days. 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 New Orleans or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting New Orleans. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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

When comparing the travel costs between New Orleans and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles 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 New Orleans Expensive? and Is Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of New Orleans. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans and Los Angeles, 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 New Orleans or Los Angeles?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit New Orleans or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 82°F (28°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. In July, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New Orleans or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and New Orleans during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to New Orleans for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

New Orleans is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the autumn. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

New Orleans usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Los Angeles. Many visitors come to New Orleans in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, New Orleans is cooler than Los Angeles. Typically, the winter temperatures in New Orleans in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 55°F (13°C).

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New Orleans or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to New Orleans for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 68°F (20°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the spring. New Orleans usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and New Orleans