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

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Should you visit Tampa or Las Vegas?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for beaches.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a sexy, glamourous, and ritzy 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.

Tampa and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Tampa
Pros
  • Family-friendly
Cons
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Las Vegas
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less family-friendly


How is Tampa different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tampa or Las Vegas Better for Food?

Tampa
Las Vegas

For a nice culinary experience, head to Las Vegas, which is well known for it's local dishes and restaurants.

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

Tampa offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.


Is Tampa or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Las Vegas

Most visitors prefer the nightlife in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Tampa
Las Vegas

There's generally more to do with your family in Tampa than Las Vegas.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Las Vegas doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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 Tampa or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Tampa
Las Vegas

There's generally more to do as a couple in Las Vegas than Tampa.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore.

Is Tampa or Las Vegas Better for Public Transit?

Tampa
Las Vegas

Visitors will find public transit in both Tampa and Las Vegas.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

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 Tampa or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Tampa
Las Vegas

Tampa and Las Vegas are similar when it comes to walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Las Vegas?

Both Tampa 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 Tampa.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Tampa is 2-3 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Las Vegas is 2-7 days.


  • How many days in Tampa or Las Vegas? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Las Vegas 2-7

One day in Tampa or Las Vegas?

You'll find around the city of Tampa. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Las Vegas?

You'll find around the low-key destination of Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Las Vegas. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Las Vegas?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the laid-back city of Tampa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Las Vegas is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Tampa or Las Vegas?

Tampa is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Which city is cheaper, Las Vegas or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $136, while the average daily cost in Las Vegas is $246. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tampa and Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $68
    Las Vegas $127
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $136
    Las Vegas $254
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $58
    Las Vegas $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Private Departure Transfer - to Tampa Airport (TPA): $28
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Tampa Airport (TPA): $32
  • Private Airport Transfer: from Tampa to Tampa International Airport (TPA): $44
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Land O' Lakes Florida: $60
  • Private Airport Transfer: Tampa International Airport (TPA) to Tampa: $61
  • Transfer from Tampa International Airport to Tampa: $75
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $82
  • Tampa hotel or address to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $82
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Bradenton: $110
  • Private Tampa Transfer: Cruise Port to Airport or Hotel: $113

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:

  • Transfer from McCarran International Airport to Las Vegas: $75
  • Round-Trip Private Transfer Las Vegas Airport to Las Vegas City by Stretch Limo: $150
  • Round-Trip Private Transfer Las Vegas Airport to Las Vegas City by SUV: $110
  • Round-Trip Private Transfer Las Vegas Airport to Las Vegas City by Business Car: $86
  • Round Trip McCarran Airport (LAS) Transfer to Las Vegas City Center: $113
  • Private Transfer: McCarran International Airport (LAS) to Las Vegas: $52
  • Private Transfer: Las Vegas - McCarran International Airport (LAS): $52
  • Private Transfer from Las Vegas City to Las Vegas (LAS) Airport: $95
  • Private Transfer from Las Vegas (LAS) Airport to Las Vegas City: $95
  • Private Transfer Service in Las Vegas: $95
  • Private Round-Trip Transfer between Las Vegas Center and Las Vegas Airport: $84
  • Private One Way Transfer from McCarran Airport to Las Vegas Strip Hotels by SUV: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and Tampa 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
    Tampa $34
    Las Vegas $64

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.

  • Only On The Strip Food Tour: $79
  • The "What The Frog?" Senor Frogs Dinner Package: $80
  • Chinatown Vegan Food Tour: $87
  • Downtown Vegan Food Tour: $87
  • Walking Food Tour of Downtown Las Vegas: $99
  • Evening Walking Food Tour on the Las Vegas Strip: $103
  • Walking Food Tour of the Las Vegas Strip: $103
  • Fremont Street Dinner Tour with Photographer: $129
  • Secret Food Tours Las Vegas: $136
  • Downtown Las Vegas Food Tour by Segway: $149
  • Wild West Sunset Horseback Ride with Dinner from Las Vegas: $150
  • Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Las Vegas: $156

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $15
    Las Vegas $63

Tours and Activities in Tampa

For Tampa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1 Hour Haunted History Walking Tour: $23
  • Skip the Line: The Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay Ticket: $26
  • Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • Tampa History Cruise: $31
  • VIP Ghost Hunters Tour Semi Private: $35
  • Skip the Line: ZooTampa at Lowry Park Admission Ticket: $45
  • Historic Ybor City Food and Drink Walking Tour: $59
  • 2-hour Tiki Boat BYOB Cruise in Tampa: $60
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $63
  • Tampa Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $70
  • ZooQuarium 1-Day Ticket: $79

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:

  • 1 Hour Private Limo Photo Tour: $343
  • 1-Day Grand Canyon West Rim Sunset Tour: $135
  • 1-Day Hoover Dam - Lake Mead - Oatman Ghost Town Tour: $291
  • 1-Day Tour to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas: $176
  • 1.5-Hour BLACKOUT: Dining in the Dark Experience in Las Vegas: $81
  • 11 Day Best of the West National Parks Tour Las Vegas to San Francisco: $2,151
  • 15-Day Southwest Grand Circle Tour: $6,000
  • 2 Day Zion and Bryce in depth National Tour Camp or Lodge options: $330
  • 2 Hour Photo Tour by Luxury Rolls Royce: $986
  • 2 Hour Private Limo Photo Tour: $549
  • 2-Day Grand Canyon Tour from Las Vegas: $330
  • 2-Day Private Tour: Grand Canyon, Zion Canyon and Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas: $1,198

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $20
    Las Vegas $44

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tampa:

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Haunted Tampa Ghost and Pub Walking Tour - Ybor City: $26
  • Private Tampa Brewery Tour - Party Bus: $600

Sample the Local Flavors in Las Vegas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Las Vegas:

  • Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino: $49
  • Fantasy Burlesque Show at Luxor Hotel & Casino: $61
  • The Weird, Wacky and Wonderful Bar Crawl of Fremont Street: $89
  • Las Vegas Bar Crawl: $90
  • Las Vegas Brewery Tour by Party Bus: $103
  • Bar Crawl On Fremont Street: $260
  • Small Group Pahrump Wine Tasting with Death Valley Sightseeing and Stargazing: $295

About these numbers

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

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Tampa vs. Las Vegas Travel Comparison

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