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

Should you visit Washington or Las Vegas?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Las Vegas can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a ritzy, colorful, and sinful entertainment capital. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Washington and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less active music scene
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Strip
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Washington or Las Vegas?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Las Vegas. Although Washington and Las Vegas are both popular with visitors, Las Vegas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Las Vegas is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, resorts, and shopping, while Washington is known for its museums, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Las Vegas is more touristy than Washington and is popular for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also home to The Strip. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums.

How is Washington different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Washington
Las Vegas

Washington is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Las Vegas is not as famous, but is still a good entertainment capital to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Washington that are not to be missed. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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.


Is Washington or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Washington
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for theatre. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its theatre productions.

The theater scene in Las Vegas is world-class. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

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

Washington
Las Vegas

Foodies will find both Washington and Las Vegas both to be first-rate destinations.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Las Vegas is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Is Washington or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Las Vegas just to party. 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.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.


Is Washington or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Washington
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

Las Vegas is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Washington or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Washington
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Las Vegas is a perfect 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.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Washington
Las Vegas

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Las Vegas?

Washington
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Las Vegas. 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Washington or Las Vegas Better for Christmas?

Washington
Las Vegas

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

Washington is a fantastic destination at Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Las Vegas does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Washington
Las Vegas

Washington is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

Washington is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Washington
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Washington or Las Vegas Better for Students?

Washington
Las Vegas

Washington is very popular for students. However, Las Vegas is not popular with students.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Las Vegas is not popular with students.

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

Washington
Las Vegas

Washington is very popular for its public transit. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for times when you don't have a car.

Washington has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Washington
Las Vegas

Washington 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 Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Washington?

How long in Washington or Las Vegas?

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

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

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


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

One day in Washington or Las Vegas?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. 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.

With theater and nightlife around the sinful entertainment capital of Las Vegas, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Las Vegas?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of Las Vegas, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this entertainment capital.


Five days in Washington or Las Vegas?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Las Vegas, a popular entertainment capital, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this entertainment capital. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Las Vegas?

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

Las Vegas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this entertainment capital has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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


Which place is cheaper, Las Vegas or Washington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, while the average daily cost in Las Vegas is $310. 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 Washington and Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Las Vegas $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Las Vegas $316
Compare Hotels in Washington and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Washington 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 Washington


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Las Vegas $53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Private Departure Transfer to Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $43
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $43
  • Private Departure Transfer to Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $56
  • Washington Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Washington City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $64
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Transfer in Washington DC: $70
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington Dulles Airport to Washington City: $88
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington City to Dulles Airport: $88

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:

  • Los Angeles: Private Transfer to/from Las Vegas: $2,000
  • West Grand Canyon Helicopter Ticket with Transfer: $599
  • Las Vegas Airport: Party Bus 1-Way Transfer: $269
  • Las Vegas Private Airport Roundtrip Transfer: $254
  • Private Roundtrip Transfer: To Las Vegas by Luxury Limo: $245
  • Las Vegas McCarran Airport (LAS): Transfer to Las Vegas: $242
  • RoundTrip Private Transfer Las Vegas by Luxury SUV Cadillac Escalade up to 5 pax: $232
  • Las Vegas Airport LAS Round-Trip Private Transfer in SUV: $214
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Las Vegas Airport LAS to Las Vegas in Business Car: $204
  • Departure Private Transfer: Las Vegas to Las Vegas Airport LAS in Business Car: $204
  • Private Transfer: Las Vegas to Las Vegas Airport LAS in Business Car: $204
  • Private Transfer: Las Vegas Airport LAS to Las Vegas in Business Car: $204

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and Washington 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
    Washington $38
    Las Vegas $80
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Capitol Hill Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington DC Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC:Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $140
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $152
  • Washington DC Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $161

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.

  • Wranglers Gone Rock Firelight Barn Dinner Theater: $39
  • Half-Day Private Manila Food Tour: True Philippine Experience: $40
  • Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show at the Firelight Barn in Henderson: $49
  • Manila Night Market and Food tour experience with Mari: $62
  • Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience : $65
  • Manila A Walking Food Tour in the Downtown, Eat and Drink: $70
  • Manila Walking Food Tour : $70
  • Makati Street Food tour Experience with Mari: $73
  • Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites: $75
  • Market Tour and Provincial Filipino Cooking Class in the Countryside: $88
  • Marriage Can Be Murder Dinner Show in Las Vegas: $100
  • Private Filipino Cooking Class in the Heart of Manila,Makati City: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Las Vegas $78

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • DC's Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Scandals & Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Kennedy Homes of Georgetown: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington, DC: Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Washington, D.C: National Air & Space Museum Audio Tour (EN): $9.00
  • The National Mall: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • D.C: White House Museum & President's Park Audio Tour (EN): $9.00
  • DC: National Museum of the American Indian Audio Tour (ENG): $10
  • DC: Smithsonian American History Museum Audio Tour (EN): $10
  • Washington, DC: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Washington DC Monuments Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13

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:

  • 7-Hours Tour of Manila: Eat, Walk & Explore: $64
  • All Day GoCar Ultimate Las Vegas Day Tour: $205
  • Food and Sightseeing Tour on the Las Vegas Strip: $124
  • Horseback Riding Tour in Las Vegas: $85
  • Vegas Strip and Red Rock Canyon Guided Trike or Slingshot Tour : $189
  • 1 Day Small Group Tour of Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend : $239
  • 1 Day Tour at Valley of Fire and Zion Park: $209
  • 1-Day Zion & Bryce Canyon National Park Bus Tour: $199
  • 1-Day Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park Tour: $249
  • 1.5 Hr Las Vegas Strip Limo Tour with Champagne and Photos: $499
  • 1.5-Hour Express Bike Tour in Intramuros (tour using a bamboo bicycle!): $22
  • 1.5-Hour Guided Raft Tour at the Base of the Hoover Dam: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Las Vegas $55

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255

Sample the Local Flavors in Las Vegas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Las Vegas:

  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl (party bus add-on option): $36
  • Las Vegas Bar Crawl by Party Bus with Free Drinks: $49
  • Las Vegas Yes, Queen Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl: $50
  • Zombie Burlesque Comedy Musical Show Ticket: $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl : $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $50
  • Fremont Street Party Bus and Bar Crawl: $50
  • Red Velvet Burlesque Show in Las Vegas: $55
  • Fremont Street Bar Crawl : $56
  • Las Vegas Country Bar Crawl by Party Bus w/ Free Drinks: $59
  • Fantasy Burlesque Show at Luxor Hotel & Casino: $61
  • Ticket for Black Girl Magic Burlesque: $67


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Washington Expensive? and Is Las Vegas Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Washington or Las Vegas?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Las Vegas. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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.