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

Should you visit Baltimore or Pasadena?

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

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pasadena

Pasadena is a picturesque, quaint, and charming city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Pasadena: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Pasadena?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore than Pasadena, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Baltimore is more touristy than Pasadena and is known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Pasadena is popular for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl.

How is Baltimore different from Pasadena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Baltimore
Pasadena

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

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 Pasadena can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a good number of museums around town that include kids' museums, art museums, and local museums. Popular museums include the USC Pacific Asia Museum, the Norton Simon Museum, and the Pasadena Museum of History. Many people also enjoy touring the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.


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

Baltimore
Pasadena

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Pasadena 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.

Pasadena has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local restaurants feature southern California cuisine as well as international flavors. Dishes often use local ingredients that are fresh and seasonal. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

Is Baltimore or Pasadena Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Pasadena

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

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 Pasadena for the nightlife scene. Much of the nightlife scene is concentrated around Old Pasadena. You'll find clubs, bars, and lounges that begin the evening with Happy Hours and then become more party-focused as the evening progresses.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Pasadena?

Baltimore
Pasadena

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pasadena 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 Pasadena. Old Pasadena is where you'll find some of the best shopping. It's filled with a charming atmosphere and interesting boutiques.


Is Baltimore or Pasadena Better for Families?

Baltimore
Pasadena

Baltimore is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Baltimore is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Pasadena is a family-friendly city. There are a number of kid-friendly museums around town including Kidspace Children's Museum. There are also nature centers, playgrounds, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Is Baltimore or Pasadena Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Pasadena

Both Baltimore and Pasadena are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Baltimore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Pasadena is a good city for couples to visit. It's a charming town with a bit of a European vibe and plenty of outdoor activities. Fine dining and interesting shopping make this a nice weekend destination.

Is Baltimore or Pasadena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Pasadena

Baltimore is a good destination for backpackers. However, Pasadena is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Pasadena is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.


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

Baltimore
Pasadena

Baltimore is notable for its public transit. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Baltimore can get you to most places easily. 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.

Pasadena has some public transit options. Buses and light rail offer local transit and connect the city to nearby Los Angeles.

Is Baltimore or Pasadena a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Pasadena

Baltimore is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Pasadena is somewhat walkable. Most people head to Old Pasadena, which is the most concentrated and walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Pasadena or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Pasadena?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Pasadena 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 Pasadena? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Pasadena 1-3

One day in Baltimore or Pasadena?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Pasadena. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pasadena has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Baltimore or Pasadena?

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 museums and nightlife around the picturesque destination of Pasadena. 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 Pasadena?

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 nightlife and food when visiting the quaint city of Pasadena. 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 Pasadena?

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.

Pasadena 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.


Which place is cheaper, Pasadena 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 Pasadena is $62. 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 Pasadena in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Pasadena $25
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Pasadena $50
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Pasadena

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Pasadena? 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 Pasadena


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 Pasadena Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Port to Baltimore Airport: $42
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $56
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $64
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • San Francisco Airport to Oakland: Round Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Pasadena?

Prices for flights to both Pasadena 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
    Pasadena $19
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.

  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $76
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $119
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Typical Food Prices in Pasadena

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pasadena are as follows:


  • Casual Dinner Out (family of 4)
    $58

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Pasadena -

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park: $5.00
  • Downtown Baltimore In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Audio Tour: $13
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $15
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $17
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Sights and Sips Private City Sightseeing Cruise: $31
  • Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $31

Tours and Activities in Pasadena

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pasadena are as follows:

  • Old Pasadena Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49
  • LA: East Side Guided Film Locations Tour: $350

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Pasadena -

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
  • Chesapeake Region Wine Tour: $171


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Baltimore and Pasadena, we can see that Baltimore is more expensive. And not only is Pasadena much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pasadena would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pasadena 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 Baltimore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Baltimore than you might in Pasadena.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Baltimore Expensive? and Is Pasadena Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Pasadena?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pasadena. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Pasadena, 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 Pasadena?

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 Pasadena in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Pasadena. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pasadena for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Baltimore is around the same temperature as Pasadena. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Pasadena averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Pasadena 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Pasadena in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Pasadena. 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 Pasadena because of the shopping scene.

In October, Baltimore is generally cooler than Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Baltimore usually gets more rain in October than Pasadena. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Pasadena 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Pasadena in the Winter?

Both Pasadena and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Pasadena this time of year.

The weather in Baltimore can be very cold. Baltimore is much colder than Pasadena in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Pasadena fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In January, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Pasadena 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Pasadena in the Spring?

Both Pasadena and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year.

In the spring, Baltimore is cooler than Pasadena. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Pasadena averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Baltimore usually gets more rain in April than Pasadena. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Pasadena 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Pasadena and Baltimore

Baltimore Pasadena
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 62°F (16°C) 1.6 inches (42 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)