A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and Las Vegas 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.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a breathtaking, serene, and beautiful national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking.

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.

Shenandoah National Park and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Strip
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Las Vegas than Shenandoah National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Las Vegas is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Shenandoah National Park is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Las Vegas is more touristy than Shenandoah National Park 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. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for snow skiing. However, Las Vegas is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Las Vegas is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is great for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Las Vegas that are not to be missed. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Shenandoah National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Las Vegas have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Shenandoah National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its music scene. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Las Vegas is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Shenandoah National Park is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Shenandoah National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Shenandoah National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for couples. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Las Vegas is a great entertainment capital for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Shenandoah National Park is very popular for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.


Is Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Shenandoah National Park
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a entertainment capital with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

Both Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

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

Couples should spend more time in Las Vegas than Shenandoah National Park. 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 Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5 
    Las Vegas 2-7

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

You'll find skiing and food around the national park of Shenandoah National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

You'll find food and skiing around the serene destination of Shenandoah National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

When visiting Las Vegas, people usually allow for lots of time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

You'll find skiing and food around the breathtaking national park of Shenandoah National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

When visiting Las Vegas, people usually allow for lots of time. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

Shenandoah National Park 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.

Las Vegas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Las Vegas or Shenandoah National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Shenandoah National Park is $125, 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 Shenandoah National Park and Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shenandoah National Park $53
    Las Vegas $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shenandoah National Park $106
    Las Vegas $316
Compare Hotels in Shenandoah National Park and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park


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: Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $70
    Las Vegas $53

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 to Los Angeles Transfer in SUV: $432
  • Las Vegas Airport: Party Bus 1-Way Transfer: $269
  • Las Vegas McCarran Airport (LAS): Transfer to Las Vegas: $239
  • Las Vegas Airport LAS Round-Trip Private Transfer in SUV: $213
  • Departure Private Transfer: Las Vegas to Las Vegas Airport LAS in Business Car: $203
  • 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 Shenandoah National Park or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and Shenandoah National Park 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
    Shenandoah National Park $28
    Las Vegas $80

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.

  • Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show at the Firelight Barn in Henderson: $49
  • Guest Artists Chuck Wagon Dinner Show in Henderson: $49
  • 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
  • Las Vegas Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $80
  • Market Tour and Provincial Filipino Cooking Class in the Countryside: $88
  • Downtown Las Vegas Food Tour: $89
  • Private Filipino cooking class in a local Manila Home: $90
  • Marriage Can Be Murder Dinner Show in Las Vegas: $100
  • Private Filipino Cooking Class in the Heart of Manila,Makati City: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $34
    Las Vegas $78

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
  • Horseback Riding Tour in Las Vegas: $85
  • Manila Street Food Walking Experience ( Shared ) : $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 Small Group Tour of Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend : $239
  • 1 Day Tour at Valley of Fire and Zion Park: $209
  • 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
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
    Las Vegas $55

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
  • Off The Beaten Path Bar Crawl: $45
  • Las Vegas Bar Crawl by Party Bus with Free Drinks: $49
  • Zombie Burlesque Comedy Musical Show Ticket: $50
  • Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino: $50
  • Fremont Street Party Bus and Bar Crawl: $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl : $50
  • Red Velvet Burlesque Show in Las Vegas: $55
  • Las Vegas Country Bar Crawl by Party Bus w/ Free Drinks: $59
  • Fantasy Burlesque Show at Luxor Hotel & Casino: $61


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

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