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

Should you visit Baltimore or Monterey?

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 Monterey 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. See Baltimore travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Monterey travel costs.

Baltimore and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Monterey are both popular with visitors, Baltimore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Baltimore is more popular for its big city activities, while Monterey is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Monterey is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Baltimore different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Baltimore and Monterey.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Monterey can be an interesting and educational experience. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Monterey 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.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Baltimore or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Monterey for the nightlife scene. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Baltimore or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey 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 Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Baltimore or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is very good for the beach. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Monterey to enjoy the beach. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Monterey?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Monterey and Baltimore.

Baltimore is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is Baltimore or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey 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.

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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 Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore and Monterey are good 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 Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Baltimore or Monterey 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. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Baltimore offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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 generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Baltimore or Monterey a more walkable city?

Baltimore and Monterey both are high quality 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.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Monterey?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey 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 Monterey.

One day in Baltimore or Monterey?

The city of Baltimore offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Monterey. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monterey has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Baltimore or Monterey?

Baltimore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Baltimore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

Baltimore is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back city of Monterey. 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.

A week in Baltimore or Monterey?

Baltimore is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Monterey 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.

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.

When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Monterey, 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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Monterey?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Baltimore is a little warmer than Monterey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Monterey averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Baltimore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey 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 Monterey because of the shopping scene.

In October, Baltimore is generally cooler than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Monterey. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Baltimore or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey 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, and the cuisine are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

The weather in Baltimore can be very cold. Baltimore is much colder than Monterey in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Baltimore usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Monterey in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Baltimore is around the same temperature as Monterey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Monterey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In April, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Monterey. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Baltimore