A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Los Angeles for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Orlando or Los Angeles?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Los Angeles? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and theater.

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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Orlando and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Los Angeles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Los Angeles than Orlando. Los Angeles is bigger than Orlando, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Orlando is more popular for its resorts. Orlando is well known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. 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 Orlando different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Los Angeles is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is great for theatre. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its theatre productions.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. 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.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

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

Los Angeles is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Orlando is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Los Angeles is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

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

Los Angeles is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is renowned for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Los Angeles. 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.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

People visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Christmas?

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

Orlando offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Orlando or Los Angeles.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is renowned for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

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

Los Angeles is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. 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.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

Los Angeles is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Los Angeles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Orlando or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Los Angeles is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Los Angeles?

Both Orlando 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 Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Orlando. 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 Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active city of Orlando. 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.

Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the entertaining destination of Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Orlando or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the family-friendly city of Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Orlando. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Los Angeles. Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orlando or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Los Angeles. The autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

Orlando is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Orlando is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orlando or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Orlando during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

Orlando usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Orlando