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

Should you visit Baltimore or New York City?

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 New York City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

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

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Baltimore and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City than Baltimore. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. New York City is more touristy than Baltimore and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities.

How is Baltimore different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City 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 New York City?

New York City 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 New York City are among the most recognizable in the world. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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 New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, Baltimore is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Baltimore is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Baltimore or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City 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.

New York City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City 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 New York City just to party. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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 New York City Better for Music?

New York City 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 New York City Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or New York City?

New York City 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 New York City make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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 New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Baltimore does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, New York City is not to be missed. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Baltimore does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Baltimore or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Baltimore does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Baltimore does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Baltimore or New York City Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or New York City.

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 New York City. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Baltimore or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City 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, New York City has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is well known for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

New York City is a great city to visit for backpackers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

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 New York City Better for Students?

New York City is a world-class destination for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

New York City is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in New York City can get you around easily. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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.

Is Baltimore or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or New York City?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.

One day in Baltimore or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful destination of Baltimore. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit New York City because there is so much to do. 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 New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baltimore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

People visit New York City because there is so much to do. 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 New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse destination of Baltimore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

People visit New York City 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Baltimore or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Baltimore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New York City, 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 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 New York City, we can see that New York City 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City 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 New York City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Baltimore. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and New York City, 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 New York City?

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 New York City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as New York City. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Baltimore is generally around the same temperature as New York City. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in New York City. Baltimore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore usually gets less rain in July than New York City. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City 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 New York City because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Baltimore is around the same temperature as New York City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and New York City fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In October, Baltimore usually receives less rain than New York City. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Baltimore or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City 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. Furthermore, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

It's quite cold in New York City in the winter. The weather in Baltimore can be very cold. In the winter, Baltimore is much warmer than New York City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and New York City averages at about 31°F (-1°C).

Baltimore usually gets less rain in January than New York City. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or New York City in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and New York City. The activities around the city are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Baltimore is generally around the same temperature as New York City. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In April, Baltimore usually receives less rain than New York City. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New York City and Baltimore