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

Should you visit Baltimore or Minneapolis?

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

Baltimore

Baltimore is a diverse, colorful, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Baltimore travel costs.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a innovative, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Baltimore and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Minneapolis?

Both Minneapolis and Baltimore have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Baltimore is more touristy than Minneapolis and is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. Minneapolis is well known for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people.

How is Baltimore different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Baltimore and Minneapolis.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Minneapolis can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.


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

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Minneapolis both to be excellent destinations.

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.

Minneapolis has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Baltimore or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Baltimore and Minneapolis.

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.

Many people head to Minneapolis for the nightlife scene. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Minneapolis?

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Minneapolis make it a world-class shopping destination. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.


Is Baltimore or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Baltimore
Minneapolis

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Minneapolis.

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 Minneapolis. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is Baltimore or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Both Baltimore and Minneapolis are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Minneapolis is a good city for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Baltimore or Minneapolis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Baltimore is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.


Is Baltimore or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is well known for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

Minneapolis is very popular with students. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Baltimore is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Baltimore has some very good public transit options. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Minneapolis, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Is Baltimore or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Minneapolis

Baltimore is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.


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

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Baltimore or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis.

Families should spend more time in Baltimore than Minneapolis. 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.

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

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

One day in Baltimore or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Baltimore. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Baltimore. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Minneapolis. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Minneapolis?

The diverse city of Baltimore offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the innovative city of Minneapolis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Baltimore or Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baltimore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Minneapolis is a popular choice for travelers. 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, Minneapolis 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
    Minneapolis Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Baltimore $217
    Minneapolis $235

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $217, while the average daily cost in Minneapolis is $235. 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 Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Minneapolis? 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 Minneapolis


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 and Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Minneapolis $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $240
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Port to Baltimore Airport (BWI): $93
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Cruise Port to Baltimore city: $93
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore City to Baltimore Cruise Port: $93
  • Private Transfer from BWI Airport ⇄ Washington DC : $199
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Private Airport Transfer from Baltimore to DCA or vice versa: $300
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $76
  • 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
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI: $114
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Transfer: $172

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

Also for Minneapolis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Rochester: One-Way Shared Transfer to or from MSP: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis 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
    Minneapolis $70
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Minneapolis $27

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Assateague Island Cruise Departs from Ocean Pines: $40
  • Baltimore Bewitched: Raven's Revenge, Bones & Ballads Ghost Tour: $26
  • Baltimore Downtown Poe Ruth and More GPS Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Baltimore Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $96
  • Baltimore Monuments Walking Tour: $20
  • Baltimore Ravens Football Game Ticket at M&T Bank Stadium: $109
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $49
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Experience by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Baltimore Walking & Driving Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point: $104
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • Baltimore's Historical Sightseeing Tour: $44

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Mississippi River Cruise with Narration: $28
  • Mall of America: Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket: $31
  • Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball Game Ticket: $33
  • Mall of America 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $47
  • Past and Present Walking Tour: $60
  • Ultimate Minneapolis Walking Tour & Weatherproof Skyway Loop: $79
  • Minneapolis & St. Paul: Private Highlights Riding Tour: $550

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Minneapolis $24

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories: $79
  • Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour in Minneapolis: $100


When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Minneapolis, we can see that Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Minneapolis?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 66% larger than the population of Minneapolis. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Minneapolis, 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 Minneapolis?

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 Baltimore or Minneapolis in the Summer?

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

Baltimore is around the same temperature as Minneapolis in the summer. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Minneapolis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. In the summer, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Minneapolis. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun.

Baltimore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore usually gets more rain in July than Minneapolis. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Baltimore is a little warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Baltimore in October average around 57°F (14°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Baltimore usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during autumn. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Minneapolis in the Winter?

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

Minneapolis can be very cold during winter. Baltimore can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Baltimore is generally much warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 32°F (0°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 15°F (-10°C).

In the winter, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Minneapolis. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets more rain in January than Minneapolis. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Minneapolis in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Minneapolis. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the activities around the city.

Baltimore is a little warmer than Minneapolis in the spring. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Minneapolis this time of the year. In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than Minneapolis during spring. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 244 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Baltimore

Baltimore Minneapolis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)