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

Should you visit Baltimore or Boston?

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 Boston 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.

Boston

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or Boston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston. Although Baltimore and Boston are popular destinations, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Baltimore attracts visitors for its shopping. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail.

How is Baltimore different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for its theatre productions. However, Baltimore is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Baltimore is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Boston both to be high quality 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.

Boston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Baltimore and Boston.

Baltimore is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is very good for its live music scene. However, Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Boston?

Baltimore is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Baltimore does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Baltimore does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Baltimore does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Baltimore does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baltimore. 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.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Couples?

Both Baltimore and Boston are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Baltimore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Boston is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore and Boston are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Baltimore or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Many visitors use the public transit system 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.

Is Baltimore or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Boston?

In either Baltimore or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Baltimore because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

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

One day in Baltimore or Boston?

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.

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

A weekend in Baltimore or Boston?

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.

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Five days in Baltimore or Boston?

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.

People visit Boston 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Baltimore or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful 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.

Boston 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 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Baltimore and Boston, we can see that Boston 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Boston?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Boston, 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 Boston?

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 Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Boston. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Baltimore is generally around the same temperature as Boston. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston 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 Boston during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Boston. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Baltimore or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Boston. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Baltimore is a little warmer than Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Boston. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets less rain in October than Boston. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. The weather in Baltimore can be very cold. In the winter, Baltimore is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Boston. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Baltimore or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the spring, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Boston. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets less rain in April than Boston. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Baltimore