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

Should you visit Baltimore or Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Baltimore and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or Ketchikan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan attracts visitors for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium. Ketchikan is famous for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Baltimore different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Baltimore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

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

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Ketchikan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

Baltimore has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Baltimore or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore is notable for nightlife. However, Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is Baltimore or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Ketchikan?

Baltimore is notable for shopping. Also, Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is Baltimore or Ketchikan Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Ketchikan.

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 Ketchikan. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Is Baltimore or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Ketchikan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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 Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore and Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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

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

Public transit in Baltimore is fairly effecient and thorough. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Is Baltimore or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Baltimore and Ketchikan both are very good 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.

Ketchikan is a very walkable destination. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Ketchikan?

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

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

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

One day in Baltimore or Ketchikan?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Baltimore. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Baltimore or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Baltimore. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Ketchikan. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Baltimore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the local town of Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan?

Baltimore is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Ketchikan 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 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Ketchikan?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Ketchikan, 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 Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Ketchikan. The summer months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

In July, Baltimore is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Baltimore or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Ketchikan. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Baltimore is much warmer than Ketchikan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Baltimore usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Ketchikan in the Winter?

Both Ketchikan and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ketchikan can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Baltimore. In the winter, Baltimore is much colder than Ketchikan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 34°F (1°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Baltimore or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Baltimore is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Baltimore usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Baltimore