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

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh or Las Vegas, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a industrial, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a sinful, fun-filled, and entertaining 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.

Pittsburgh and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Strip
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

You'll generally find more things to do in Las Vegas than Pittsburgh. Las Vegas is bigger than Pittsburgh, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Las Vegas is more touristy than Pittsburgh 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. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Pittsburgh different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Las Vegas and Pittsburgh.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Pittsburgh can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.


Is Pittsburgh or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its shows and theatre. However, Pittsburgh is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Las Vegas. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Pittsburgh is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Las Vegas is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Pittsburgh or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Las Vegas is a world class party destination. 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.

Pittsburgh has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.


Is Pittsburgh or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a live music destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Las Vegas offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.


Is Pittsburgh or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

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

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

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 Pittsburgh or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Las Vegas has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

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

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

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 Pittsburgh or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Pittsburgh
Las Vegas

Pittsburgh and Las Vegas are notable when it comes to walkability.

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable city. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Pittsburgh?

How long in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Las Vegas than Pittsburgh 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.


  • How many days in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pittsburgh 2-3 
    Las Vegas 2-7

One day in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Pittsburgh. 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.

When visiting Las Vegas, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Pittsburgh. 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.

When visiting Las Vegas, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this entertainment capital.


Five days in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Pittsburgh. 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.

Las Vegas, a popular entertainment capital, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this entertainment capital. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

Pittsburgh 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Las Vegas or Pittsburgh?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Pittsburgh is $181, while the average daily cost in Las Vegas is $310. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Pittsburgh and Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pittsburgh $106
    Las Vegas $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pittsburgh $212
    Las Vegas $316
Compare Hotels in Pittsburgh and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Pittsburgh or Las Vegas? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Pittsburgh


Hotels in Las Vegas


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Pittsburgh Hotel Prices and Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pittsburgh $22
    Las Vegas $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

Also for Pittsburgh, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $96

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • 24 Hr Bus Pass
    $15
  • 24 hrs Deuce Bus
    $7.00
  • Taxi from Airport to the Strip
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Las Vegas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Las Vegas:

  • Los Angeles: Private Transfer to/from Las Vegas: $2,000
  • West Grand Canyon Helicopter Ticket with Transfer: $509
  • Las Vegas Airport: Party Bus 1-Way Transfer: $269
  • Private Roundtrip Transfer: To Las Vegas by Luxury Limo: $245
  • Las Vegas McCarran Airport (LAS): Transfer to Las Vegas: $238
  • RoundTrip Private Transfer Las Vegas by Luxury SUV Cadillac Escalade up to 5 pax: $232
  • Departure Private Transfer: Las Vegas to Las Vegas Airport LAS in Business Car: $202
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Las Vegas Airport LAS to Las Vegas in Business Car: $202
  • From Nellis Dunes ATV Tour with Shuttle Transfer: $200
  • Manila ATV Mountain Trail Adventure(with Transfers***): $175
  • Private Transfer in Las Vegas with Personal Driver: $175
  • Round trip Private Transfer Las Vegas airport by eco friendly premium cars: $168

Is it cheaper to fly into Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and Pittsburgh change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Pittsburgh $54
    Las Vegas $80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

For Pittsburgh, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Typical Food Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of dining costs in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • Coffee
    $5.00
  • Deep Fried Twinkie
    $1.07
  • Chocolate Dip Banana
    $1.07
  • Gelato
    $5.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Las Vegas

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Las Vegas.

  • Half-Day Private Manila Food Tour: True Philippine Experience: $40
  • Guest Artists Chuck Wagon Dinner Show in Henderson: $49
  • Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show at the Firelight Barn in Henderson: $49
  • Manila Night Market and Food tour experience with Mari: $62
  • Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience : $65
  • Manila A Walking Food Tour in the Downtown, Eat and Drink: $70
  • Makati Street Food tour Experience with Mari: $73
  • Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites: $75
  • Tournament of Kings Dinner and Show at Excalibur Hotel and Casino: $78
  • Las Vegas Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $80
  • Market Tour and Provincial Filipino Cooking Class in the Countryside: $88
  • Private Filipino cooking class in a local Manila Home: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pittsburgh $38
    Las Vegas $78

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.

  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Pittsburgh to Logstown Settler's History: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.32
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Sinister Shadows of Steel City Ghost Tour: $24
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh: $25
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Public Art Walking Tour: $30
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30
  • Pittsburgh 101 Walking History Tour: $32
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Downtown History and Architecture Tour: $33

Typical Entertainment Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • Wedding Chapel
    $139
  • Atomic Testing Museum (two people)
    $12
  • Gondola Ride (4 person)
    $64
  • Monorail Ride
    $5.00
  • NY NY Rollercoaster
    $14
  • Circus Circus Adventure Dome Day Pass
    $26

Tours and Activities in Las Vegas

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Las Vegas are as follows:

  • 4 Gun Vegas Desert Shooting Adventure with Lunch from Las Vegas: $199
  • 7-Hours Tour of Manila: Eat, Walk & Explore: $64
  • All Day GoCar Ultimate Las Vegas Day Tour: $205
  • Horseback Riding Tour in Las Vegas: $85
  • Manila; Walking Foods and Drinks Tour : $70
  • Nellis Desert Exploration Jeep Tour Off Road You Drive We Guide: $283
  • Vegas Strip and Red Rock Canyon Guided Trike or Slingshot Tour : $189
  • 1-Day Zion & Bryce Canyon National Park Bus Tour: $199
  • 1-Day Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park Tour: $249
  • 1.5 Hr Las Vegas Strip Limo Tour with Champagne and Photos: $549
  • 1.5-Hour Express Bike Tour in Intramuros (tour using a bamboo bicycle!): $22
  • 1.5-Hour Guided Raft Tour at the Base of the Hoover Dam: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pittsburgh $33
    Las Vegas $55

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $40
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105

Sample the Local Flavors in Las Vegas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Las Vegas:

  • Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl: $36
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl (party bus add-on option): $36
  • Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino: $50
  • Zombie Burlesque Comedy Musical Show Ticket: $50
  • Fremont Street Party Bus and Bar Crawl: $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl : $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $50
  • Las Vegas Country Bar Crawl by Party Bus w/ Free Drinks: $59
  • Fantasy Burlesque Show at Luxor Hotel & Casino: $61
  • Nightclub and Bar Crawl with Party Bus and Drinks: $69
  • Fremont Street Bar Crawl : $70
  • Fremont Street-Old Vegas Bar Crawl: $70


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

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


Which is Bigger, Pittsburgh or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Pittsburgh and Las Vegas, 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.