A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. Redwood National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

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

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a impressive, monumental, and grand park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking.

Baltimore and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Redwood National Park are both popular with visitors, Baltimore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Baltimore is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Redwood National Park is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Redwood National Park is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Baltimore different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Baltimore is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Baltimore. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Baltimore or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Baltimore is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Baltimore is an experience not to be missed. 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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Baltimore or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Baltimore is well known for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Baltimore or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is very good for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Redwood National Park to enjoy the beach. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.


Is Baltimore or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Baltimore is well known for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Baltimore or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Redwood National Park.

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 Redwood National Park. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.


Is Baltimore or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

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

Couples visit Redwood National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Baltimore is well known for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Baltimore or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Redwood National Park

Baltimore is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known 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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

In either Baltimore or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Baltimore because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

Families should spend more time in Baltimore than Redwood National Park. 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.


  • How many days in Baltimore or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

In Baltimore, you'll find shopping and museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find around the park of Redwood National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baltimore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the grand destination of Redwood National Park. 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 park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

Baltimore is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find around the grand park of Redwood National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

A week in Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Baltimore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Redwood National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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, Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park is $111. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Redwood National Park? 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 Redwood National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Redwood National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD & Reagan Airport(DCA): $200
  • Arrival Private Transfer Baltimore Airport BWI to Baltimore by Business Vehicle: $111
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $63
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $209

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $33
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 New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Redwood National Park $33

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
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $14
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $24
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $28
  • Baltimore Harbor Tour: $28
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Redwood National Park $11

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 Redwood National Park, we can see that Baltimore is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Baltimore or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

Both Redwood National Park and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Baltimore is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Baltimore. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and Baltimore during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Redwood National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Baltimore is generally around the same temperature as Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Redwood National Park. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Redwood National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Baltimore can be very cold. Baltimore is much colder than Redwood National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Baltimore usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

Redwood National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Redwood National Park. The activities around the city are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Baltimore is a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 50°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. In the spring, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Redwood National Park. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Redwood National Park. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Baltimore

Baltimore Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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