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

Should you visit Baltimore or Nantucket?

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

Baltimore

Baltimore is a historic, vibrant, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local 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 nightlife.

Baltimore and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Nantucket?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Baltimore and Nantucket are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Baltimore attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Baltimore different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Baltimore
Nantucket

Baltimore is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


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

Baltimore
Nantucket

Nantucket 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.

Nantucket has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Nantucket

Baltimore is a great city for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Baltimore has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Baltimore or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Baltimore
Nantucket

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.


Is Baltimore or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Baltimore
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Baltimore or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Baltimore
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its old town. However, Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is Baltimore or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Nantucket

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Nantucket?

Baltimore
Nantucket

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Baltimore or Nantucket Better for Families?

Baltimore
Nantucket

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

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 Nantucket. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Baltimore or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Nantucket

Nantucket 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, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Nantucket

Baltimore is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

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

Baltimore
Nantucket

Baltimore is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

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.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Baltimore or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Nantucket

Baltimore and Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.


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

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Baltimore or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Nantucket 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 Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Baltimore or Nantucket?

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.

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse 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.

Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Baltimore or Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nantucket 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 Nantucket is $350. 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 Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Nantucket? 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 Nantucket


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 Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Nantucket $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $209
  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $62
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $81
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.

  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $67
  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $126
  • Baltimore 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $194
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Nantucket $34

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Assateague Island Cruise Departs from Ocean Pines: $45
  • Baltimore Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise Tour: $105
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Baltimore Harbor Tour: $31
  • Baltimore Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $92
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $12
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore Signature Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point: $99
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Nantucket $35

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
  • From Patapsco Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Nantucket?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Baltimore during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In July, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Nantucket. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Nantucket in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Nantucket. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Baltimore is a little warmer than Nantucket in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Nantucket fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Nantucket. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Nantucket in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nantucket can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Baltimore. In the winter, Baltimore is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Nantucket averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Baltimore usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Nantucket in the Spring?

Both Nantucket and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Baltimore is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. In April, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Baltimore

Baltimore Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)