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

Should you visit South Lake Tahoe or Durango?

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 Durango, 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Durango

Durango is a quaint, scenic, and nature-filled small town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums.

South Lake Tahoe and Durango: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in South Lake Tahoe. Although South Lake Tahoe and Durango are popular destinations, South Lake Tahoe has more sights and attractions for tourists. South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Durango attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. South Lake Tahoe is more touristy than Durango and is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for the Heavenly Gondola. Durango is famous for its historic narrow gauge railroad, its charming small town atmosphere, and its many family-friendly activities.

How is South Lake Tahoe different from Durango?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is South Lake Tahoe or Durango Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Durango is lacking in good options for winter skiing.

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.

Durango is a fun local destination for snow skiers. Purgatory Ski Resort is about 20 minutes from town and it's a family-friendly mountain with beginner and intermediate runs. It's small, and geared specifically to the beginner and younger crowd.

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

Durango is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

Durango offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most visitors come to town specifically to ride the Silverton & Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad. There's also the D&SNGRR Railroad Museum, and the Fish Hatchery and Wildlife Museum.

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 Durango? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

South Lake Tahoe is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around South Lake Tahoe. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Durango. Most of the restaurants are casual and family-friendly, serving up burgers or sandwiches for a reasonable price. You'll also find some coffeeshops and even a few food trucks and international restaurants.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Durango Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Durango is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

People head to South Lake Tahoe just to party. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Durango. It's a small town that attracts tourists mainly for its train, so you won't find much in the way of a nightlife scene.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Durango Better for Resorts?

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Durango 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.

Durango is not a resort destination.

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

Durango is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, South Lake Tahoe does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Durango to see the old town. Filled with character, the downtown feels like you've stepped into a Western. The town has a long history as a mining and railroad community, which you can see throughout the historic area. It really feels like you're in the "Wild West."

South Lake Tahoe does not have a historic old town.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Durango Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Durango. It's surrounded by plenty of natural beautiful and there is an endless supply of hikes in the region. Popular nearby hikes include Animas Mountain Trail, Falls Creek Trail, and Purgatory Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in South Lake Tahoe or Durango?

South Lake Tahoe is a good destination for shopping. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in South Lake Tahoe. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

If you're looking to go shopping, Durango has some nice offerings. The charming town has some boutiques that sell beautifully made Native American jewelry and other interesting items. There are also souvenir shops and other venues that target tourists specifically.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Durango Better for Christmas?

Durango is a nice place to visit for its Christmas activities. However, South Lake Tahoe does not offer Christmas activities.

Durango offers some nice Christmas activities. It is a great Christmas town where you can meet Santa, go skiing, and even take the Polar Express.

South Lake Tahoe does not offer Christmas activities.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Durango Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Durango is a very kid-friendly town. In the area you'll find ziplining, alpine slides, and plenty of outdoor areas to explore - and of course there's the railroad.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Durango Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for romance. However, Durango is lacking in good options 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.

Most people don't think of Durango as a couple's destination. The town may not be the first romantic destination that comes to mind, but the railroad combined with wandering the downtown can make for a great couple's getaway.

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

Both South Lake Tahoe and Durango are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Durango is a good town to visit for backpackers. With plenty of parks and outdoor areas nearby, backpackers will have plenty of places to explore.

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

South Lake Tahoe is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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 limited or non-existant in Durango. It's a small town with no real public transit options so a car is a must.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Durango a more walkable city?

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Durango is generally not very walkable. While the Main Street through town is walkable, it's not as pedestrian-friendly as some small towns.

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

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

How long in South Lake Tahoe or Durango?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both South Lake Tahoe and Durango. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than in Durango. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for South Lake Tahoe, and 2-3 days is enough time in Durango.

Families should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Durango. 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 Durango. 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 Durango 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.

One day in South Lake Tahoe or Durango?

In South Lake Tahoe, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Durango is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This small town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in South Lake Tahoe or Durango?

In South Lake Tahoe, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

Durango is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this small town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Durango?

South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in South Lake Tahoe. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting South Lake Tahoe. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Durango is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

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

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 Durango Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, South Lake Tahoe or Durango?

South Lake Tahoe has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Durango. When comparing the sizes of South Lake Tahoe and Durango, 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.