A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a peaceful, active, and beautiful recreation area. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Baltimore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are both popular with visitors, Baltimore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Baltimore is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is popular for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Baltimore different from Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Baltimore is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Baltimore is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Baltimore is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Is Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Baltimore is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Families?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

Baltimore is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Is Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

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

Is Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Baltimore is a great destination for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Is Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Baltimore is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable city. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

Families should spend more time in Baltimore than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3

One day in Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this diverse destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find around the peaceful destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 recreation area has to offer. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Baltimore. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the active recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Baltimore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $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
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD & Reagan Airport(DCA): $200
  • Arrival Private Transfer Baltimore Airport BWI to Baltimore by Business Vehicle: $111
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $65
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $192
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $74
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore City to Baltimore Cruise Port: $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Prices for flights to both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52
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: $74
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $88
  • Cooking or Baking Lesson with a Maryland Local Karen in her Home: $106
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $112
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $133
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Downtown Baltimore In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Towson MD: $15
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $15
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Monuments Walking Tour: $20
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Raven's Revenge Walking Ghost Tour: $24
  • 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: $26
  • Sights and Sips Private City Sightseeing Cruise: $28
  • Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $28

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

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

  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $28
  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • From Patapsco Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175


When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 3680 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, 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.