A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. Bangor for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Baltimore or Bangor?

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 Baltimore and Bangor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Baltimore travel costs.

Bangor

Bangor is a welcoming, friendly, and laid back town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Bangor travel costs.

Baltimore and Bangor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Bangor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Bangor are both popular with visitors, Baltimore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Baltimore is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bangor is known for its small town charm. Baltimore is more touristy than Bangor and is known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Bangor is popular for its history as a lumber town.

How is Baltimore different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baltimore or Bangor?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Baltimore. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.


Is the Food Better in Baltimore or Bangor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Baltimore is an experience not to be missed. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Baltimore or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Baltimore offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Bangor?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Baltimore. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.


Is Baltimore or Bangor Better for Families?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Baltimore is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Bangor is a family-friendly city. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Baltimore or Bangor Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a city with good options for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Baltimore or Bangor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Baltimore is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.


Is Baltimore or Bangor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Bangor is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Baltimore can get you to most places easily. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Is Baltimore or Bangor a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Bangor

Baltimore is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Baltimore is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

Bangor is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is Bangor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Bangor?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Baltimore than Bangor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Baltimore that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Bangor 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 Baltimore.


  • How many days in Baltimore or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Baltimore or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Baltimore. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Bangor. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangor has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Baltimore or Bangor?

Baltimore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the laid back destination of Bangor. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baltimore. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the friendly town of Bangor. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Baltimore or Bangor?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Baltimore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bangor is a popular choice for travelers. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Bangor or Baltimore?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Baltimore Prices
    USA Prices
    Bangor Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Baltimore $184
    Bangor $237

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $184, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $237. 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 Baltimore and Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Bangor? 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 Baltimore


Hotels in Bangor


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: Baltimore Hotel Prices and Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Bangor $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $63
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $74
  • Baltimore Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • Transfer Airport DCA Ronald Reagan Sedan: $80
  • San Francisco Airport to Oakland: Round Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Transfer Airport DCA Ronald Reagan: $90
  • Arrival Private Transfer Baltimore Airport BWI to Baltimore by Business Vehicle: $111
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Transfer Dulles IAD International Airport Sedan: $150

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $68
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor and Baltimore 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
    Baltimore $46
    Bangor $93
Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Baltimore.

  • Private Hands-On Vegan Cooking Experience in Baltimore: $45
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $67
  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $67
  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $88
  • Cooking or Baking Lesson with a Maryland Local Karen in her Home: $106
  • Discover Fells Point Culinary Food Tour: $109
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $112
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $133

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Bangor $45

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

Here are a few actual costs in Baltimore for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park: $5.00
  • Museum of Industry Admission Ticket: $14
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Towson MD: $15
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Monuments Walking Tour: $20
  • Raven's Revenge Ghost Tour in Baltimore: $20
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $24
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $25
  • Raven's Revenge Walking Ghost Tour: $26

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Tours and Activities in Bangor

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bangor are as follows:

  • Bangor Blitz Amazing Race & Tour: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Bangor $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Baltimore Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $23
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $28
  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30


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

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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Bangor?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Bangor, 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.


When is the best time to visit Baltimore or Bangor?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Baltimore or Bangor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Bangor. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bangor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Baltimore is a little warmer than Bangor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Bangor averages at about 69°F (21°C).

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Bangor. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Bangor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Bangor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Bangor. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Bangor for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Baltimore is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Baltimore usually gets less rain in October than Bangor. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Bangor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Bangor in the Winter?

Both Bangor and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bangor because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bangor can be very cold. Baltimore can be very cold during winter. Baltimore is much warmer than Bangor in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Bangor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bangor. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Bangor in the Spring?

Both Bangor and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Bangor this time of year.

In the spring, Baltimore is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Bangor averages at about 43°F (6°C).

Baltimore usually gets less rain in April than Bangor. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Bangor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bangor and Baltimore

Baltimore Bangor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)