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

Should you visit Baltimore or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a diverse, colorful, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Baltimore and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Baltimore, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more touristy than Baltimore and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities.

How is Baltimore different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

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 Los Angeles Better for Theater?

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

Los Angeles has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Baltimore is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Los Angeles just to party. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Many people head to Baltimore for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Baltimore or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Is Baltimore or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is well known for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Los Angeles. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is Baltimore or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Baltimore or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Baltimore or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Los Angeles make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is Baltimore or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Los Angeles has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is well known for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Los Angeles is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

Baltimore is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Baltimore or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Baltimore is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Los Angeles?

Both Baltimore and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Baltimore. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Baltimore or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful 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.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Los Angeles?

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.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Los Angeles?

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.

People visit Los Angeles 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. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Baltimore or Los Angeles?

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.

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Baltimore. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Baltimore or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Baltimore is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Baltimore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Los Angeles because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Baltimore is generally cooler than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In October, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Baltimore or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Baltimore during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

The weather in Baltimore can be very cold. Baltimore is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Los Angeles. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Los Angeles. The activities around the city are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Baltimore is cooler than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In April, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Baltimore