A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America South Lake Tahoe vs. Albuquerque for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque, 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.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a cosmopolitan, cultural, and outdoorsy town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

South Lake Tahoe and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

Both Albuquerque and South Lake Tahoe have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Albuquerque attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. South Lake Tahoe is more touristy than Albuquerque and is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. Albuquerque is famous for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is South Lake Tahoe different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Albuquerque and South Lake Tahoe. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for skiing. However, Albuquerque is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Albuquerque is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Albuquerque can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

While most people don't head to South Lake Tahoe specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Is the Food Better in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Albuquerque. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

South Lake Tahoe is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

South Lake Tahoe is a world class party destination. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.


Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Resorts?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in South Lake Tahoe to choose from. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is an amazing town to visit for its old town. However, South Lake Tahoe does not have a historic old town.

Albuquerque offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

South Lake Tahoe does not have a historic old town.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

South Lake Tahoe is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

South Lake Tahoe is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

Albuquerque is a good destination for hiking. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.


Is the Shopping Better in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Albuquerque is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

South Lake Tahoe is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, South Lake Tahoe is very family-friendly. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

South Lake Tahoe is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

South Lake Tahoe is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Albuquerque is a very popular place to visit for couples. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.


Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

South Lake Tahoe is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Students?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a nice place to visit for students. However, South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

Albuquerque is a good town to visit for students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

Both South Lake Tahoe and Albuquerque offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.


Is South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

South Lake Tahoe
Albuquerque

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for its walkability. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

South Lake Tahoe is very walkable. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

For even more information, also check out Is South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting? and Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or South Lake Tahoe?

How long in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque. Generally, people tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for South Lake Tahoe, and 2-4 days is enough time in Albuquerque.

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

Couples should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Albuquerque. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in South Lake Tahoe that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Albuquerque 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 South Lake Tahoe.


  • How many days in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque? Ideal Length of Stay
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5 
    Albuquerque 2-4

One day in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the breathtaking town of South Lake Tahoe. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Albuquerque. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic destination of South Lake Tahoe. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural town of Albuquerque. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the breathtaking town of South Lake Tahoe. 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.

Albuquerque is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting South Lake Tahoe. 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.

Albuquerque is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Albuquerque or South Lake Tahoe?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in South Lake Tahoe is $118, while the average daily cost in Albuquerque is $135. 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 South Lake Tahoe and Albuquerque in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    South Lake Tahoe $54
    Albuquerque $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    South Lake Tahoe $108
    Albuquerque $138
Compare Hotels in South Lake Tahoe and Albuquerque

Looking for a hotel in South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque? 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 South Lake Tahoe


Hotels in Albuquerque


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: South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices and Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    South Lake Tahoe $24
    Albuquerque $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $39
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $78
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Private Transfer: $125
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Pagosa Springs Private Transfer: $174
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Round-Trip Transfer: $250

Is it cheaper to fly into South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

Prices for flights to both Albuquerque and South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe $38
    Albuquerque $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    South Lake Tahoe $56
    Albuquerque $24

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe: $140
  • Clear Kayak Paddle Tour at Sand Harbor: $150
  • Clear Kayak Tour of Lake Tahoe: $165
  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Audio Tour From Tahoe City to Incline Village: $9.99
  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour From Incline Village to South Lake Tahoe: $12
  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City: $12
  • Electric Dirtbike Adventure in Lake Tahoe: $200
  • Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe: $110
  • Emerald Bay Private Luxury Boat Tours: $750
  • Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley: $80
  • Guided Tour of Historic Virginia City and Carson City from South Lake Tahoe: $70
  • Introductory Snowshoe Shared Experience: $75

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour by App: $6.50
  • Historic Old Town Albuquerque smart phone App/Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Albuquerque by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Albuquerque by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Old Town Hauntings of the West Ghost Tour: $26
  • The Ghost Tour of Old Town - New Mexico's oldest Ghost Walk - Since 2001: $35
  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • ABQ City Guided History Tour: $35
  • Duke City Pedaler: Beverage Tour to Old Town/Sawmill Albuquerque : $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    South Lake Tahoe $34
    Albuquerque $20

Sample the Local Flavors in South Lake Tahoe

Also in South Lake Tahoe, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150


When comparing the travel costs between South Lake Tahoe and Albuquerque, we can see that Albuquerque 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 South Lake Tahoe Expensive? and Is Albuquerque Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, South Lake Tahoe or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of South Lake Tahoe and Albuquerque, 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.