A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. South Lake Tahoe for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

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 South Lake Tahoe can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

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

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking, idyllic, and scenic town. The famous beauty of South Lake Tahoe is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Baltimore and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Baltimore than South Lake Tahoe, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Baltimore is better known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while South Lake Tahoe is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Baltimore is well known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. Also, Baltimore is famous for the National Aquarium. South Lake Tahoe is well known for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting.

How is Baltimore different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is well known for winter skiing. However, Baltimore is not a skiing destination.

People head to South Lake Tahoe specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Baltimore is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

Baltimore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

While most people don't head to South Lake Tahoe specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Is the Food Better in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

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

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.

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to South Lake Tahoe just to party. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

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.


Is Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is well known for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in South Lake Tahoe. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit South Lake Tahoe specifically for its hiking. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

Baltimore is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.


Is Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe More Beautiful?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of South Lake Tahoe is one of the main draws. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

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 Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, South Lake Tahoe has plenty to offer. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

Baltimore and South Lake Tahoe are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

It's common for backpackers to visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

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

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

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

Public transit in Baltimore can get you to some 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 mostly limited in South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Is Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

Baltimore
South Lake Tahoe

Baltimore and South Lake Tahoe both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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.

South Lake Tahoe is a very walkable destination. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Baltimore because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 3-5 days is enough time in South Lake Tahoe.

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

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

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

One day in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Baltimore. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of South Lake Tahoe. 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.

A weekend in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant city of Baltimore. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the scenic destination of South Lake Tahoe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

Baltimore is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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


A week in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

Baltimore is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

South Lake Tahoe 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.


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, South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Baltimore $217
    South Lake Tahoe $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $217, while the average daily cost in South Lake Tahoe is $146. 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 South Lake Tahoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    South Lake Tahoe $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    South Lake Tahoe $108
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and South Lake Tahoe

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe? 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 South Lake Tahoe


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 South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    South Lake Tahoe $24

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 South Lake Tahoe?

Prices for flights to both South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe $66
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 South Lake Tahoe

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in South Lake Tahoe.

  • Persian Cooking Class with Private Chef: $120
  • Lake Tahoe Evening Dinner Cruise: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    South Lake Tahoe $56

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

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • Ultimate Lake Tahoe Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Public Sauna Experience at Tahoe Vista Recreation Area: $40
  • Lake Tahoe: Full Day Self-Guided Bike Tour: $69
  • Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley: $70
  • Sunset Kayak Tour in Tahoe City: $75
  • Sunset Kayak Experience in South Lake Tahoe: $75
  • Virginia City Day Tour From Lake Tahoe with Train Ride: $80
  • Lake Tahoe's West Shore Best Shore Kayak Tour: $80
  • Scenic and Wild Nature tour in South Lake Tahoe: $85
  • Lake Tahoe East Shore Trail 2-Hour Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $90
  • Tahoe National Forest Moonlight Snowshoe Tour Under a Starry Sky: $90
  • Lake Tahoe: Daytime Scenic Cruise: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    South Lake Tahoe $34

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 South Lake Tahoe

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

  • Scavenger Adventure and Lake Tahoe Bar Crawl: $15
  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150


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

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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or South Lake Tahoe?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and South Lake Tahoe, 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.