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

Should you visit Marathon or Baltimore?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Baltimore, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

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.

Marathon and Baltimore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Baltimore?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore. Although Marathon and Baltimore are popular destinations, Baltimore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baltimore is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Marathon attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is famous for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium.

How is Marathon different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Baltimore and Marathon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marathon or Baltimore?

Baltimore is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Baltimore is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Baltimore Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Marathon. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Baltimore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Baltimore Better for Beaches?

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

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Baltimore?

Baltimore is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Baltimore Better for Families?

Marathon and Baltimore are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Baltimore is a very kid-friendly island. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Is Marathon or Baltimore Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Marathon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Baltimore is a good island 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 Marathon or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Baltimore is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Baltimore is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Baltimore is very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Baltimore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marathon and Baltimore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Baltimore. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Baltimore.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Marathon 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.

One day in Marathon or Baltimore?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. 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.

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.

A weekend in Marathon or Baltimore?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quaint destination of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Marathon or Baltimore?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint island of Marathon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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.

A week in Marathon or Baltimore?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Baltimore, we can see that Baltimore is more expensive. And not only is Marathon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marathon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marathon 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 Marathon.

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Baltimore?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Baltimore, 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 Marathon or Baltimore?

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 Marathon or Baltimore in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Baltimore. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marathon is a little warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Baltimore averages at about 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Baltimore. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Baltimore. Marathon usually gets less rain in July than Baltimore. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Baltimore in the Autumn?

Both Baltimore and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Marathon because of the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year.

In October, Marathon is generally much warmer than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Baltimore fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Baltimore during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Marathon. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Baltimore in the Winter?

Both Baltimore and Marathon during the winter are popular places to visit. The cuisine are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Baltimore. Marathon is much warmer than Baltimore in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Baltimore fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Baltimore. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 153 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Baltimore. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Baltimore in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Baltimore. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Baltimore in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Baltimore averages at about 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Baltimore during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Baltimore. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Marathon