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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Saint Simons or Baltimore? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and food. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Baltimore

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

Saint Simons and Baltimore: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Baltimore?

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

How is Saint Simons different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Baltimore is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


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

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Baltimore can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Baltimore has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Saint Simons or Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Baltimore is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Baltimore know how to have a good time. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Baltimore Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

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

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Baltimore Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Saint Simons is well known for the beach. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Baltimore Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Shopping is a popular activity in both Baltimore and Saint Simons.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Baltimore is well-known for its shopping. 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 Saint Simons or Baltimore More Beautiful?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Saint Simons is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Baltimore Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Baltimore.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Baltimore is very family-friendly. 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 Saint Simons or Baltimore Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

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

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Baltimore is a good island 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 Saint Simons or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Baltimore is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options 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.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

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

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Baltimore is a great destination for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options 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 quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Baltimore

Baltimore is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.


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

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Baltimore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Baltimore. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 2-3 days is enough time in Baltimore.

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

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

One day in Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Even though Saint Simons 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.

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Baltimore is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Saint Simons is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Baltimore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Saint Simons is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Baltimore is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Baltimore or Saint Simons?

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

  • Saint Simons Prices
    USA Prices
    Baltimore Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Simons $211
    Baltimore $217

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, while the average daily cost in Baltimore is $217. 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 Saint Simons and Baltimore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Baltimore $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Baltimore $186
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Baltimore

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Baltimore? 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 Saint Simons


Hotels in Baltimore


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Baltimore Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Baltimore $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Prices for flights to both Baltimore and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $83
    Baltimore $79

Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Baltimore.

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Baltimore $18

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Baltimore $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

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

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Baltimore Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Baltimore?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Baltimore, 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 Saint Simons or Baltimore?

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 Saint Simons or Baltimore in the Summer?

Both Baltimore and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Baltimore averages at about 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Baltimore. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Baltimore during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. It's quite rainy in Saint Simons. In July, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Baltimore in the Autumn?

Both Baltimore and Saint Simons during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Baltimore in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Baltimore fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Baltimore. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 196 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Baltimore. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Baltimore in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Baltimore. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baltimore can be very cold during winter. Saint Simons is much warmer than Baltimore in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Baltimore fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Baltimore during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Baltimore in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Baltimore. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Saint Simons is much warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Baltimore averages at about 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Baltimore. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 225 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets less rain in April than Baltimore. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Baltimore
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)