A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Baltimore vs. Whistler for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Baltimore or Whistler?

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 Whistler 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.

Whistler

Whistler is a outdoorsy, charming, and adventurous village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Whistler travel costs.

Baltimore and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or Whistler?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Whistler are popular destinations, Baltimore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baltimore is very popular for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Whistler attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Whistler is more touristy than Baltimore and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium.

How is Baltimore different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Baltimore or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Baltimore is not a skiing destination.

Whistler is among the world's best ski destinations. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Baltimore is not a skiing destination.

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

Baltimore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village 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 Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Whistler 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.

Whistler has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Baltimore or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Whistler for the nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Is Baltimore or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is well known for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Whistler. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is Baltimore or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Whistler specifically for its hiking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Whistler?

Baltimore is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Baltimore is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 is a popular activity when visiting Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Baltimore or Whistler More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Baltimore or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler 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.

Whistler is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Whistler Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Whistler frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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 Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is well known for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Whistler is a great village to visit for backpackers. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Public transit in Baltimore is fairly effecient and thorough. 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Baltimore or Whistler a more walkable city?

Baltimore and Whistler 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.

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Whistler?

In either Baltimore or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler 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 Whistler.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler than Baltimore 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 Whistler.

One day in Baltimore or Whistler?

The city of Baltimore offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the village of Whistler. 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 Whistler?

Baltimore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Baltimore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the adventurous destination of Whistler. 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 village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Whistler?

Baltimore is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Baltimore or Whistler?

Baltimore is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Whistler 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Whistler?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Whistler. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Whistler for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Whistler 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 Whistler during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Whistler. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Baltimore or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Whistler. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Whistler in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Baltimore is a little warmer than Whistler in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Baltimore usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Whistler can be very cold during winter. Baltimore can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Baltimore is much colder than Whistler. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Whistler averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Baltimore usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Whistler. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Baltimore or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Whistler because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the spring, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Baltimore usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Baltimore