A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Vail vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Resorts

Should you visit Vail or Las Vegas?

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

Should I visit Vail 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.

Vail

Vail is a charming, picturesque, and scenic ski town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and live music.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a sinful, fun-filled, and entertaining entertainment capital. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Vail and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vail or Las Vegas?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Las Vegas. Although Vail and Las Vegas are popular destinations, Las Vegas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Las Vegas is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Vail attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Vail is famous for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. Las Vegas is famous for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also well known for The Strip.

How is Vail different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Skiing?

Vail is very popular for snow skiing. However, Las Vegas is not a skiing destination.

Vail is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Las Vegas is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Vail or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is a great entertainment capital for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Las Vegas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Vail is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Las Vegas draw crowds from around the world. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Vail is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Vail or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its evening party scene.

Las Vegas is a world class party destination. 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.

Vail offers plenty to do in the evening. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Las Vegas. 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.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Las Vegas is a great choice. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Vail. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Vail is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Vail is a popular spot for hiking. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vail or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Las Vegas draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Vail. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Christmas?

Vail is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Las Vegas does not offer Christmas activities.

Vail is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Las Vegas does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Christmas Markets?

Vail is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Las Vegas does not offer Christmas markets.

Vail is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Las Vegas does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Vail is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Vail is very family-friendly. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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 Vail or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Vail and Las Vegas make for a amazing place to visit.

Vail makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

For those traveling as a couple, Las Vegas 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.

Is Vail or Las Vegas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vail is a good destination for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Vail. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Vail is a good destination for its public transit. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for times when you don't have a car.

Vail has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

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.

Is Vail or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Vail is very popular for its walkability. Also, Las Vegas is not as famous, but is still a good entertainment capital to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Vail on foot. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Vail?

How long in Vail or Las Vegas?

Both Vail and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Vail has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Vail than Las Vegas. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Vail, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

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

Couples should spend more time in Las Vegas than Vail. 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 Vail than Las Vegas 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 Vail.

One day in Vail or Las Vegas?

Even though Vail is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Las Vegas is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Vail or Las Vegas?

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music. 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 ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Las Vegas is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Vail or Las Vegas?

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the skiing. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski town has to offer.

Las Vegas is a ritzy big city where you can fill many days. This entertainment capital offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Vail or Las Vegas?

Vail is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vail, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a sinful entertainment capital where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Vail and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas 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 Vail Expensive? and Is Las Vegas Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Vail or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Vail and Las Vegas, 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.