Welcome to our guide to Baltimore, Maryland! This city is a vibrant destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, Baltimore has a plethora of attractions and activities that will keep you busy and entertained. From exploring the birthplace of the National Anthem to sailing in the Inner Harbor to indulging in some of the best seafood in the country, Baltimore will not disappoint. Join us as we uncover the best attractions and things to do in Charm City.

The 2 Best Things To See And Do In Baltimore

1. Moonlight Sail in Chesapeake Bay
2. Baltimore Dinner Cruise With Buffet

The 2 Best Things To See And Do In Baltimore

1. Moonlight Sail in Chesapeake Bay

Cool off from Baltimore’s hot summer nights with this moonlight sail around Baltimore Harbor. See historic sights such as the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine under the light of the moon as you cruise around the harbor in an authentic schooner. This small-group cruise (maximum six) offers a more personalized experience and allows you to learn about Baltimore’s history from your captain as you sail. The evening sightseeing cruise includes gratuities and departs from the Inner Harbor Marina. A crew member will meet you at the gate. The activity ends back at the meeting point. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see some of Baltimore’s top attractions from the water on a moonlit night.

2. Baltimore Dinner Cruise With Buffet

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is one of the city’s must-see attractions, and you can experience it in style on this 3-hour luxury dinner cruise. Enjoy a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet dinner while taking in the illuminated skyline and passing popular attractions like the Maryland Science Center Pride Mast Memorial and the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The ship’s crew will keep you entertained with live entertainment and top hits from a DJ. It’s the perfect prelude to a night on the town. Parking is not provided, and the meeting point is at 561 Light St. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening on the Patapsco River!

Exploring Baltimore: Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists

Baltimore, the largest city in Maryland, is known for its thriving cultural scene, delicious seafood, and rich maritime history. Despite its charm, travelers often have questions about visiting Baltimore. Here are the most frequently asked questions by tourists about this vibrant city.

1. What Are the Best Attractions to Visit in Baltimore?

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Baltimore. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular attractions.

1.1 The Inner Harbor

The Inner Harbor is the heart of Baltimore and serves as the city’s center for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Tourists can take a stroll around the harbor, rent kayaks or paddleboats, visit the USS Constellation, or check out the Baltimore Aquarium, which is home to more than 20,000 marine animals.

1.2 Fort McHenry

Fort McHenry is a National Monument and Historic Shrine, best known for its role in the War of 1812. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour, watch a short film, and witness the flag-raising ceremony that takes place every day.

1.3 Maryland Science Center

The Maryland Science Center is a popular attraction for families, especially those with young children. It has plenty of interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a planetarium.

2. What are the Best Places to Eat in Baltimore?

Baltimore is heaven for foodies, with an abundance of options ranging from upscale seafood restaurants to classic diners. Here are some of the best places to eat in Baltimore.

2.1 Faidley Seafood

Faidley Seafood, located in the Lexington Market, is famous for its lump crab cakes. They use only the freshest ingredients, and the portions are generous.

2.2 Thames Street Oyster House

Located in Fells Point, Thames Street Oyster House is a popular seafood spot for tourists and locals alike. It has an extensive raw bar menu and a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

2.3 Miss Shirley’s Cafe

If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, Miss Shirley’s Cafe is the place to go. It’s known for its Southern-style breakfast dishes like shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes.

3. How Safe is Baltimore?

Baltimore is a big city, and like any urban area, it does have its share of crime. However, violent crime rates have been decreasing in recent years, and many parts of the city are perfectly safe for tourists. That being said, it is recommended that visitors take the usual precautions when traveling to unfamiliar places, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not flashing valuables.

4. What are the Best Ways to Get Around Baltimore?

Baltimore has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and light rail trains. The Charm City Circulator is a free shuttle that operates on several routes throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

5. What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Baltimore?

The best time to visit Baltimore is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of events and festivals going on. The summer months can be hot and humid, but they are also when many outdoor activities and concerts take place.

6. What are the Must-See Festivals and Events in Baltimore?

Regardless of the time of year, there is always something happening in Baltimore. Here are some of the biggest and most popular festivals and events.

6.1 Light City Baltimore

Light City Baltimore is a free festival that takes place every spring. It features light installations, music, and performances, as well as food vendors and art exhibits.

6.2 Baltimore Pride

Baltimore Pride is a two-day festival that celebrates the city’s LGBT community. It includes a parade, live music, and a block party.

6.3 Maryland Renaissance Festival

The Maryland Renaissance Festival takes place on weekends in the fall and is a celebration of medieval culture. It features jousting tournaments, costumed actors, and plenty of food and drink.

7. Where are the Best Places to Shop in Baltimore?

From vintage boutiques to modern shopping malls, Baltimore has plenty of options for shopaholics. Here are some of the best places to shop in Baltimore.

7.1 Hampden

Hampden is a trendy neighborhood that is home to quirky shops and boutiques. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.

7.2 Harbor East

Harbor East is a more upscale shopping destination that is home to luxury brands like Gucci and Tiffany & Co. There are also plenty of options for dining and entertainment.

7.3 Lexington Market

Lexington Market is an iconic Baltimore landmark that has been around for over 200 years. It’s a great place to try local specialties like pit beef and snowballs.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Baltimore

Baltimore, the largest city in the state of Maryland, is one of the oldest cities in the United States, founded in 1729. This vibrant city is filled with historic landmarks, beautiful parks, delicious seafood, and many attractions that will make your visit unforgettable. Here is our guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Baltimore.

1. Explore the Inner Harbor

The Inner Harbor is the heart of Baltimore and the city’s top tourist attraction. It is the perfect place to start your Baltimore adventure, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops. The Harbor offers a beautiful view of the waterfront, and there are many activities to do, such as taking a boat tour, riding a bike, or visiting the National Aquarium. The Harbor is particularly beautiful at night, with the lights from the buildings reflecting on the water.

2. Visit the National Aquarium

The National Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Baltimore, and for a good reason. It has thousands of animals, including sharks, dolphins, turtles, and many more. The Aquarium also has an immersive 4D theater that will take you on an underwater adventure. Be sure to check out the Amazon River Forest exhibit, where you can see exotic animals such as sloths, piranhas, and electric eels.

3. Walk Through Historic Fells Point

Fells Point is a historic waterfront neighborhood in East Baltimore that dates back to the 18th century. It is filled with cobblestone streets, charming shops, and restaurants, and dozens of historic buildings. Take a stroll through the streets, and you will see some of the oldest homes in Baltimore, including many beautifully restored townhouses. For breakfast or lunch, be sure to check out the Broadway Market, which has been around since 1786.

4. Tour Fort McHenry

Fort McHenry is famous for being the inspiration for the Star-Spangled Banner, the national anthem of the United States. During the War of 1812, the fort was attacked by the British, and a young lawyer named Francis Scott Key saw the American flag still waving after the battle. This inspired him to write the lyrics of the Star-Spangled Banner. You can take a tour of the fort, see the flag that inspired the anthem, and learn more about the history of the War of 1812.

5. See Art at the Baltimore Museum of Art

The Baltimore Museum of Art is a world-renowned museum with an impressive collection of contemporary, modern, and ancient art. The museum has over 90,000 works of art, including pieces by famous artists such as Matisse, Picasso, and Warhol. Be sure to check out the newly renovated contemporary wing and the beautiful outdoor sculpture garden, which features installations by artists such as Alexander Calder and Auguste Rodin.

6. Enjoy a Crab Feast

No trip to Baltimore is complete without trying some Maryland blue crabs. The crabs are steamed and served with Old Bay seasoning, and they are delicious. Be sure to try crab cakes, crab dip, and crab soup as well. Some of the best places to try crab are Jimmy’s Famous Seafood, G&M Restaurant, and Faidley Seafood.

7. Take in the Views from Federal Hill Park

Federal Hill Park is one of Baltimore’s oldest parks, located on a hill overlooking the Inner Harbor. The park offers stunning views of the city skyline, and it’s a great place to relax and have a picnic. The park is also home to the American Visionary Art Museum, which has a collection of outsider art, including works by self-taught artists and artists with disabilities.

8. Visit the Maryland Zoo

The Maryland Zoo, located in Druid Hill Park, has over 200 species of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and elephants. The zoo also has a children’s farmyard, where kids can pet and interact with farm animals such as goats and sheep. Be sure to check out the Penguin Coast exhibit, which has over 50 penguins, including the endangered African penguin.

Book Your Tour Now

Baltimore is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and many attractions that will keep you busy during your visit. Whether you’re exploring the Inner Harbor, visiting the National Aquarium, or enjoying a crab feast, there’s something for everyone in Baltimore. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful and exciting city.