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

Should you visit Orlando or Baltimore?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Baltimore? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, theater, 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.

Orlando and Baltimore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Baltimore?

Both Baltimore and Orlando have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Orlando is very popular for its theatre productions and resorts, while Baltimore attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities. Orlando is more touristy than Baltimore and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities.

How is Orlando different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Baltimore offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Baltimore Better for Theater?

Orlando is very good for its theatre productions. However, Baltimore is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Baltimore is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Orlando and Baltimore.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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.

Is Orlando or Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Orlando or Baltimore Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Orlando is a perfect choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Baltimore?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Baltimore both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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.

Is Orlando or Baltimore Better for Christmas?

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

During Christmas, Orlando is not to be missed. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Baltimore does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Baltimore Better for Families?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is one of the most popular family destinations. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baltimore. 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 Orlando or Baltimore Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Baltimore make for a nice place to visit.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

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.

Is Orlando or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Baltimore Better for Students?

Orlando is very good for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

Is Orlando 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, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation 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 generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Orlando or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Baltimore is great for its walkability. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Baltimore?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Orlando 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 Orlando or Baltimore?

You'll find shopping and theater around the city of Orlando. 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.

In Baltimore, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Baltimore?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the entertaining destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

In Baltimore, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Baltimore has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Baltimore?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the entertaining city of Orlando. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Baltimore is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Baltimore?

Orlando 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baltimore. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baltimore. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Baltimore?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Baltimore in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Baltimore. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Orlando is a little warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Baltimore averages at about 78°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in Baltimore. Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Baltimore. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Baltimore in the Autumn?

Both Baltimore and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orlando for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Baltimore in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Orlando is generally much warmer than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Baltimore fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Baltimore in the Winter?

Both Baltimore and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orlando in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baltimore can be very cold during winter. Orlando is much warmer than Baltimore in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Baltimore fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Baltimore. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Baltimore in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Baltimore. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Orlando is much warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and Baltimore averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives less rain than Baltimore. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Orlando