A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. Death Valley National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Baltimore or Death Valley 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 Death Valley National Park 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. See Baltimore travel costs.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a dramatic, striking, and vast national park. The famous beauty of Death Valley National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Death Valley National Park travel costs.

Baltimore and Death Valley 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 Death Valley National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Death Valley National Park are both popular with visitors, Baltimore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Baltimore is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Death Valley National Park is known for its resorts, 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. Death Valley National Park is popular for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.

How is Baltimore different from Death Valley National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Baltimore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Death Valley National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.


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

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Baltimore is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

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.

Death Valley National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Is Baltimore or Death Valley National Park Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Baltimore is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

Baltimore offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Death Valley National Park doesn't offer many options. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.

Is Baltimore or Death Valley National Park Better for Resorts?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a national park with a few options for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Death Valley National Park offers a few options. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.


Is Baltimore or Death Valley National Park Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Death Valley National Park. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Death Valley National Park?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Baltimore is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park 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 Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.

Is Baltimore or Death Valley National Park More Beautiful?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Death Valley National Park is one of the main draws. The striking desert setting offers stunning beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is at its most beautiful when the sun is low during sunrise and sunset.

Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Baltimore or Death Valley National Park Better for Families?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Death Valley 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 Death Valley National Park. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Is Baltimore or Death Valley National Park Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

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

Couples visit Death Valley National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.

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 Death Valley National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley 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 Death Valley National Park. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

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

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Baltimore is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.

Is Baltimore or Death Valley National Park a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Death Valley National Park

Baltimore is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park 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.

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable city. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Death Valley National Park or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Death Valley National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Baltimore or Death Valley National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Death Valley National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 2-4 days is enough time in Death Valley National Park.

Families should spend more time in Baltimore than Death Valley 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Death Valley National Park 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 Death Valley National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Death Valley National Park 2-4

One day in Baltimore or Death Valley National Park?

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this colorful destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the national park of Death Valley 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 Death Valley National Park?

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find around the dramatic destination of Death Valley National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Death Valley National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Baltimore. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the dramatic national park of Death Valley National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Baltimore or Death Valley National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Baltimore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Death Valley 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 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, Death Valley National Park or Baltimore?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Baltimore Prices
    USA Prices
    Death Valley National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Baltimore $217
    Death Valley National Park $101

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $217, while the average daily cost in Death Valley National Park is $101. 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 Death Valley National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Death Valley National Park $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Death Valley National Park $74
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Death Valley National Park

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Death Valley 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 Death Valley 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
    Death Valley National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $77
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI: $114
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $135
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154
  • Airport Transfer Downtown Baltimore to BWI Airport: $160
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Transfer: $172
  • Private Transfer from BWI Airport ⇄ Washington DC : $199
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $240
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Baltimore, MD: $245
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD and Dulles Airport: $275
  • Private Airport Transfer from Baltimore to DCA or vice versa: $300

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Death Valley National Park?

Prices for flights to both Death Valley 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 $79
    Death Valley National Park $35
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.

  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Baltimore: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Classes at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $78
  • City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Death Valley National Park $36

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Baltimore Downtown Poe Ruth and More GPS Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Baltimore Walking & Driving Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • NEON Starry Night Sip and Paint Experience : $20
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • City Cruises Baltimore Harbor Tour: $30
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • Baltimore Bewitched: Raven's Revenge, Bones & Ballads Ghost Tour: $32
  • Glow in the Dark Splatter Paint Experience : $40
  • Assateague Island Cruise Departs from Ocean Pines: $40
  • North Beach Scenic - Guided Walking Tour: $41
  • North Beach Historic - Guided Walking Tour: $41

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Death Valley National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Death Valley National Park: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Death Valley National Park $8.57

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
  • Baltimore Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36


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


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