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

Should you visit Baltimore or Beaufort?

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 Beaufort can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Baltimore and Beaufort: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Beaufort?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Beaufort are popular destinations, Baltimore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baltimore is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Baltimore is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Baltimore different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Beaufort 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 Beaufort?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Baltimore is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


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

Baltimore
Beaufort

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Beaufort both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Baltimore. 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.

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Is Baltimore or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Baltimore is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Baltimore has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Baltimore or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Beaufort is very good for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.


Is Baltimore or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for its old town. However, Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Beaufort?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Baltimore is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Baltimore is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Baltimore or Beaufort Better for Families?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Baltimore is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Baltimore is 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.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.


Is Baltimore or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Beaufort frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

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.

Is Baltimore or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Baltimore is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

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

Baltimore
Beaufort

Baltimore is notable for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Baltimore. 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 quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Baltimore or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Beaufort

Baltimore and Beaufort both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Baltimore and Beaufort. In our opinion, Baltimore has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Baltimore than Beaufort. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Beaufort 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 Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Baltimore or Beaufort?

The city of Baltimore offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Baltimore or Beaufort?

Baltimore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Baltimore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Beaufort?

Baltimore is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Baltimore or Beaufort?

Baltimore is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Baltimore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $184, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $131. 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 Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Beaufort? 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 Beaufort


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 Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Beaufort -

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
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • 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
  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD & Reagan Airport(DCA): $200
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $209
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
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.

  • 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 Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $126
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Beaufort -

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
  • Downtown Baltimore In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $14
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $24
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $28
  • Baltimore Harbor Tour: $28
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

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

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • From Patapsco Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175


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

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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Beaufort?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Beaufort, 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 Beaufort?

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 Beaufort in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Beaufort. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Baltimore is generally cooler than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Beaufort. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Baltimore is cooler than Beaufort in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. In the autumn, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Beaufort. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Beaufort. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Beaufort in the Winter?

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

Baltimore can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Baltimore is much colder than Beaufort. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Beaufort averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than Beaufort during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Baltimore is generally much colder than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the spring, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Beaufort. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Beaufort. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Baltimore

Baltimore Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)