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

Should you visit Baltimore or Chattanooga?

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

Baltimore

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

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a thriving, bustling, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Chattanooga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore than Chattanooga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Baltimore is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Chattanooga is known for its hiking. Baltimore is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Chattanooga is popular for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Baltimore different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Baltimore is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.


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

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Baltimore is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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 Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Baltimore or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Baltimore is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Baltimore know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Is Baltimore or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Chattanooga?

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Baltimore is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Baltimore or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Baltimore is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Baltimore or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Both Baltimore and Chattanooga are good 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.

Chattanooga is a good city for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.


Is Baltimore or Chattanooga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Baltimore is a popular place for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

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

Baltimore
Chattanooga

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Baltimore and Chattanooga.

Public transit in Baltimore can get you to some 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Is Baltimore or Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Chattanooga

Baltimore and Chattanooga both are great 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.

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Chattanooga or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Chattanooga?

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

Families should spend more time in Baltimore than Chattanooga. 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 Chattanooga. 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Chattanooga 2-3

One day in Baltimore or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Baltimore. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Chattanooga. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Baltimore. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the thriving destination of Chattanooga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Chattanooga?

The diverse city of Baltimore offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the thriving city of Chattanooga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Baltimore or Chattanooga?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baltimore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Chattanooga is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 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, Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga is $182. 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 Chattanooga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Chattanooga $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Chattanooga $184
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Chattanooga

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Chattanooga? 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 Chattanooga


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 Chattanooga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Chattanooga $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $64
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $56
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Port to Baltimore Airport: $42
  • San Francisco Airport to Oakland: Round Trip Private Transfer: $88

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Chattanooga?

Prices for flights to both Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $59
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.

  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $76
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $119
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

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

  • MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour: $65
  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Chattanooga $52

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
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Audio Tour: $13
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $15
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $17
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Sights and Sips Private City Sightseeing Cruise: $31
  • Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $31

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga: $14
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $23
  • Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour: $23
  • ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga: $23
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $25
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $25
  • Scenic City Ghosts, Voodoo, Murder Mystery Tour: $25
  • Ghosts of the Misty Mountains Walking Tour: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Chattanooga $24

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
  • Chesapeake Region Wine Tour: $171


When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Chattanooga, we can see that Baltimore is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Chattanooga?

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

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 Chattanooga in the Summer?

Both Chattanooga and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Baltimore is around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Chattanooga averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. It's quite rainy in Baltimore. In July, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Chattanooga in the Autumn?

Both Chattanooga and Baltimore during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year.

In October, Baltimore is generally cooler than Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Chattanooga. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 211 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Chattanooga. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Chattanooga in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Chattanooga. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chattanooga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chattanooga. It's quite cold in Baltimore in the winter. Baltimore is much colder than Chattanooga in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 145 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Chattanooga in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Chattanooga. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Baltimore is cooler than Chattanooga. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Chattanooga averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. In the spring, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Chattanooga. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 243 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. Baltimore usually gets less rain in April than Chattanooga. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Baltimore

Baltimore Chattanooga
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm)