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

Should you visit Baltimore or Duck?

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

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Baltimore travel costs.

Duck

Duck is a laid-back, traditional, and compact beach town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of Duck is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and food. See Duck travel costs.

Baltimore and Duck: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Duck?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Duck are popular destinations, Baltimore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baltimore is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Duck attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium. Duck is famous for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm.

How is Baltimore different from Duck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Baltimore
Duck

Baltimore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Duck is not a good beach town for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Duck. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.


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

Baltimore
Duck

Baltimore is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Baltimore makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Duck has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Is Baltimore or Duck Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Duck

Baltimore is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

Is Baltimore or Duck Better for Resorts?

Baltimore
Duck

Duck is very good for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Duck makes a nice vacation spot. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.


Is Baltimore or Duck Better for Beaches?

Baltimore
Duck

Duck is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Duck is a very popular vacation destination. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Baltimore or Duck Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Duck

Duck is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Duck. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Duck?

Baltimore
Duck

Shopping is a popular activity in both Duck 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 Duck. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.


Is Baltimore or Duck More Beautiful?

Baltimore
Duck

Duck is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Duck is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful sandy beaches and family-friendly parks offer a beautiful and relaxed beach vacation.

Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Baltimore or Duck Better for Families?

Baltimore
Duck

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Duck.

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 Duck. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

Is Baltimore or Duck Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Duck

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

Couples visit Duck frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

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 Duck Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Duck

Baltimore is a popular place for backpackers. However, Duck is not a good beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Duck is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's an upscale town with many beach houses available for rent, and very little in the form of budget accommodation.

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

Baltimore
Duck

Baltimore is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Duck is not a good beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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 mostly limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

Is Baltimore or Duck a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Duck

Duck is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Duck on foot is easy. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

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.


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

Should I spend more time in Duck or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Duck?

Both Baltimore and Duck have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Duck than in Baltimore. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 5-7 days is enough time in Duck.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Duck 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 Duck? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Duck 5-7

One day in Baltimore or Duck?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Baltimore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Even though Duck is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Duck?

Baltimore is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Duck is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Duck?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Baltimore. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Duck is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.


A week in Baltimore or Duck?

The diverse city of Baltimore offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Duck is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Duck, one week is sufficent for most. 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, Duck 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
    Duck Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Baltimore $217
    Duck $221

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $217, while the average daily cost in Duck is $221. 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 Duck in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Duck $107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Duck $214
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Duck

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Duck? 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 Duck


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
    Duck $66

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: $76
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore City to Baltimore Cruise Port: $93
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Cruise Port to Baltimore city: $93
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Port to Baltimore Airport (BWI): $93
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI: $114
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $153
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $153
  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Airport Transfer Downtown Baltimore to BWI Airport: $160
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Transfer: $172
  • Private Transfer from BWI Airport ⇄ Washington DC : $199

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Duck?

Prices for flights to both Duck 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
    Duck $78
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
  • Ravioli Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Baltimore: $75
  • Thai Curry Cooking Class with Local Chef 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
    Duck $13

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
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Experience by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Baltimore Walking & Driving Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Monuments Walking Tour: $20
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • Baltimore Bewitched: Raven's Revenge, Bones & Ballads Ghost Tour: $26
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $26
  • City Cruises Baltimore Harbor Tour: $30
  • Assateague Island Cruise Departs from Ocean Pines: $40
  • Glow in the Dark Splatter Paint Experience : $40
  • NEON Starry Night Sip and Paint Experience : $40
  • North Beach Historic - Guided Walking Tour: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Duck $45

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Baltimore Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $29
  • Enchanted Full Day Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour from Oakland: $285


When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Duck, we can see that Duck is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Duck?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 1090 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Duck, 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 Duck?

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 Duck in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Duck. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Duck because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Baltimore is generally around the same temperature as Duck. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Duck fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Duck this time of the year. In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Duck during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Duck receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

Duck receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Duck. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Duck 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Duck in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Duck. The autumn months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Duck this time of year.

Baltimore is cooler than Duck in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Duck fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Duck. In the autumn, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Duck. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Duck receives 211 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets less rain in October than Duck. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Duck 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Duck in the Winter?

Both Duck and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Duck for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Duck. It's quite cold in Baltimore in the winter. In the winter, Baltimore is much colder than Duck. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Duck averages at about 41°F (5°C).

Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than Duck during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Duck receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Duck. In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Duck. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Duck 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Duck in the Spring?

Both Duck and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Duck in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Baltimore is generally cooler than Duck. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Duck fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Duck, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the spring, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Duck. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Duck receives 253 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Duck. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Duck 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Duck and Baltimore

Baltimore Duck
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)