A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America South Lake Tahoe vs. El Paso for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit South Lake Tahoe or El Paso?

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 El Paso, 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 hiking, shopping, and skiing.

El Paso

El Paso is a low-key, undiscovered, and laid-back city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

South Lake Tahoe and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in South Lake Tahoe or El Paso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in South Lake Tahoe. Although South Lake Tahoe and El Paso are popular destinations, South Lake Tahoe has more sights and attractions for tourists. South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while El Paso attracts visitors for its museums. South Lake Tahoe is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for the Heavenly Gondola. El Paso is famous for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is South Lake Tahoe different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is South Lake Tahoe or El Paso Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a skiing destination.

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

El Paso 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.

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans 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 El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between South Lake Tahoe and El Paso can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

El Paso is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is South Lake Tahoe or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in South Lake Tahoe is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is South Lake Tahoe or El Paso Better for Resorts?

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso is not a resort destination.

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

El Paso is not a resort destination.

Is South Lake Tahoe or El Paso Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit South Lake Tahoe specifically for its hiking. 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.

El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in South Lake Tahoe or El Paso?

Both South Lake Tahoe and El Paso are nice shopping destinations.

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

El Paso has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

Is South Lake Tahoe or El Paso Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

South Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is South Lake Tahoe or El Paso Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable place for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, South Lake Tahoe has plenty to offer. 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 El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

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

South Lake Tahoe is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for backpackers.

South Lake Tahoe is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

El Paso is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's little in the area that appeals to backpackers.

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

Both South Lake Tahoe and El Paso 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 El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

Is South Lake Tahoe or El Paso a more walkable city?

South Lake Tahoe is a very popular place for its walkability. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around town.

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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or South Lake Tahoe?

How long in South Lake Tahoe or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in South Lake Tahoe or El Paso to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in South Lake Tahoe than El Paso because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for South Lake Tahoe, and 1-2 days is enough time in El Paso.

Families should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than El Paso. 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 El Paso. 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 El Paso 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 El Paso?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the low-key destination of El Paso. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in South Lake Tahoe or El Paso?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the low-key city of El Paso. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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 El Paso?

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.

El Paso is a popular choice for travelers. 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 El Paso?

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.

El Paso is a great place to explore. 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 El Paso, we can see that El Paso 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 El Paso would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in El Paso 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 El Paso Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, South Lake Tahoe or El Paso?

El Paso 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 El Paso, 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.