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

Should you visit Roanoke or Las Vegas?

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

Should I visit Roanoke or Las Vegas? 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.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a entertaining, sexy, and glamourous 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.

Roanoke and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Roanoke or Las Vegas?

You'll generally find more things to do in Las Vegas than Roanoke. Las Vegas is bigger than Roanoke, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Las Vegas is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Roanoke is more popular for its hiking. Las Vegas is more touristy than Roanoke 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. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Roanoke different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Las Vegas is a great entertainment capital for its historical sights. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Las Vegas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

Is Roanoke or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Roanoke is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Las Vegas draw crowds from around the world. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Roanoke is not a theatre destination.

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

Las Vegas is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Roanoke or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Las Vegas is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Is Roanoke or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is renowned for its music scene. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a live music destination.

Is Roanoke or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Las Vegas is a great choice. 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.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Roanoke or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Roanoke is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Roanoke is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Roanoke or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a great destination for shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Roanoke or Las Vegas Better for Families?

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

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

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 Roanoke or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Las Vegas is renowned for couples. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Las Vegas makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Is Roanoke or Las Vegas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Roanoke is a good destination for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Las Vegas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most visitors are not backpackers, but for those who want to experience the hype while sticking to a budget, there are a handful of hostels around town.

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

Roanoke and Las Vegas both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Public transit is generally 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 Roanoke or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Las Vegas is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Roanoke is not known for its walkability.

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

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

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

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Roanoke?

How long in Roanoke or Las Vegas?

Both Roanoke 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 Roanoke. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Roanoke, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

Couples should spend more time in Las Vegas than Roanoke. 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 Roanoke 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.

One day in Roanoke or Las Vegas?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Roanoke. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Roanoke has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A weekend in Roanoke or Las Vegas?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Roanoke. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Las Vegas 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. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Las Vegas has to offer.

Five days in Roanoke or Las Vegas?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy town of Roanoke. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Roanoke or Las Vegas?

Roanoke is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Las Vegas. Because Las Vegas 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 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 Roanoke and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. And not only is Roanoke much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Roanoke would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Roanoke 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 Roanoke.

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

Which is Bigger, Roanoke or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Roanoke. When comparing the sizes of Roanoke 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.