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25 Fun & Best Things to Do in Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore has great character, delicious food, historic buildings, and a thriving arts scene. Hey, it’s not called Charm City for nothing! These are our favorite things to do in Baltimore.

Food lovers visiting the city will find lots to feast on, from world-renowned crab cakes to mouth-watering pit beef sandwiches served at Chaps Pit Beef. Art and history fans can enjoy a stop at one of the city’s many museums, like The Baltimore Museum of Art, American Visionary Art Museum, or Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture.

Entertain the kids at the National Aquarium or Port Discovery Children’s Museum. And don’t forget some of Baltimore’s most popular neighborhoods like Federal Hill, Hampden, and Fell’s Point. When you visit Baltimore, you’ll want to add these fun things to your itinerary.

Baltimore Fells Point Walking Food and History Tour
1. Baltimore: Fells Point Walking Food and History Tour Top Recommendation

Enjoy a 2.5-hour walking food tour through the historic colonial harbor of Baltimore's Fells Point. Sample the local delicacies and cuisine, get to know the charming neighborhood, and learn about its history while enjoying the great outdoors. This food and historical tour will introduce you to some of the most popular foods in Baltimore such as crab cakes, pit beef sandwiches, Old Bay Seasoning, and more!

Baltimore Inner Harbor Buffet Lunch Cruise
2. Baltimore Inner Harbor: 2-Hour Buffet Lunch Cruise

The 2-Hour Buffet Lunch Cruise is the perfect way to spend your lunchtime. As you sail around Baltimore's Inner Harbor, you'll be treated to a delicious buffet lunch and can admire the many sights of Baltimore. You'll hear exciting live music and enjoy a drink from our cash bar.

Baltimores Historical Sightseeing Tour
3. Baltimore's Historical Sightseeing Tour

Take a tour of Baltimore with this free walking tour. Your guide will show you the most important sights in Baltimore and fill you in on the city's history and culture. You'll get helpful tips for where to go later and a deeper understanding of this historical city.

TL;DR

  • Most significant landmark – Fort McHenry National Monument
  • Best park – Federal Hill Park
  • Best free activity – Walters Art Museum
  • Best activity for kids – Maryland Zoo
  • Best activity for adults – Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum
  • Best food – Maryland Blue Crab
  • Best nightlife – Rusty Scupper Bar & Grill

Things to Do in Baltimore, MD

1. Baltimore Museum of Art

Baltimore Museum of Art Architecture
Baltimore Heritage from Baltimore, MD, USA / Wikimedia Commons, CC0

Address: 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States

Founded in 1917 in the heart of the city, the Baltimore Museum of Art is home to an impressive collection of works from across the globe spanning a wide range of genres and mediums. This famous museum was designed by celebrated architect John Russell Pope, and today, it houses more than 95,000 works of art.

The museum’s focus is particularly strong regarding 19th and 20th Century European and American paintings, sculptures, prints, and Ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art. One of the most iconic pieces in the museum’s collection is Henri Matisse’s The Bathers, a large-scale painting that instantly grabs your attention as soon as you enter the gallery.

Other notable highlights of the collection include works by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Andy Warhol, in addition to the permanent collection, the Baltimore Museum of Art hosts multiple temporary exhibitions annually.

The Baltimore Museum of Art is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city and is a must-see for any art lover. Admission to the museum is free, making it an excellent activity for budget-minded travelers.

See Related: Best Cheap Places to Travel in the US

2. Maryland Science Center

Maryland Science Center Exhibit
Christopher Amrich / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Address: 601 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21230, United States

Head to the Maryland Science Center at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for all things science. This hands-on museum is perfect for families with kids and curious minds of all ages.

It’s easy to spend a full day exploring the Maryland Science Center, with three floors of interactive exhibits covering topics like space exploration, the human body, Earth science, and more. Highlights of the museum include the KidZone, where kids can explore and play in a safe environment; the Planetarium, where you can take a journey through our solar system; and the IMAX Theater, which offers immersive film experiences.

Kids (and kids at heart) visiting the center can enjoy a day filled with learning and discovery. Throughout the year, rotating exhibits join their permanent collections, and after-hours events offer a unique way to experience the magic.

Admission to the museum is free for children under 3, and ticket prices for adults and children are reasonable.

3. The Walters Art Museum

The Walters Art Museum Building
Sarah Stierch / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0

Address: 600 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States

The Walters Art Museum hosts an impressive collection of over 36,000 pieces of art from all over the world. On display, you’ll find artifacts sourced all over the globe – from ancient Egypt to European paintings and sculptures.

The museum’s collection features medieval art, Renaissance art, and Old Master paintings, among other works. One of the most popular things to do is to take a guided tour of the collection. These tours are led by knowledgeable docents who can share stories and insights about the artwork on display, and it’s a great way to get a more in-depth look at the works.

The museum is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Admission is free to the public, making this a perfect activity for budget-minded travelers looking for free things to do in Baltimore.

If you’d like to stay near the museum, consider booking a room at Hotel Indigo. The hotel is full of color, patterns, and murals, making for the perfect place to stay for any art lover.

See Related: Best Beaches on the East Coast

4. Fort McHenry National Monument

Fort McHenry National Monument and US Flag
National Park Service / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

Address: 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230, United States

Fort McHenry is best known as the birthplace of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” written by Francis Scott Key.

The fort was built in 1814 and served as a defense point during the War of 1812. The valiant defense efforts of the soldiers stationed here inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem that — once paired with the melody of a popular British drinking song — would later become the United States National Anthem. Today, you can drive across the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, named after the iconic poet.

Fort McHenry is a national monument and historic shrine open to the public year-round. Visitors to the fort can take a self-guided tour of the grounds, which includes the fort and its museum.

A tour through the grounds will transport you back in time and teach you about the important role that Fort McHenry played in American history. From the Battle of Baltimore to the writing of the national anthem, there is no doubt that Fort McHenry has earned its place in American lore.

Along with exploring history in Baltimore, you can also sleep among history. Lord Baltimore Hotel was built in 1928, and along with being gorgeous, it’s also rumored to be haunted.

5. Inner Harbor

Baltimore Inner Harbor Scenery
G. Edward Johnson http://EdwardJohnson.com/ / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0

The Inner Harbor area is a family-friendly neighborhood and a great place to explore on foot. There are hoards of Baltimore attractions at the Inner Harbor, including shopping, dining, and sightseeing – not to mention some of the best views of the Baltimore skyline! The area is where you’ll find the National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center, as well as local landmarks like Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse.

You can take an architectural tour, a food tour, or even a dark history ghost tour. An Inner Harbor sightseeing tour is a great way to see all the city’s highlights in one go! There is no shortage of things to do in Baltimore Harbor, so you’ll have a great time no matter which tour you choose.

The Inner Harbor is a popular place to stay. There are plenty of hotels here and some of the best restaurants and bars in town. The most popular places to stay include the Hilton Baltimore, the Hyatt Regency Baltimore, and the Marriott Waterfront Baltimore.

See Related: Best Holiday Destinations for Couples

6. Washington Monument

View of the Washington Monument at night, in Mount Vernon, Baltimore, Maryland
jonbilous / Adobe Stock

Address: 699 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA

No, not that Washington Monument! The Baltimore Monolith was the first one built in honor of George Washington. The monument stands at a towering height of 178 feet and is the second-tallest monument in the city, surpassed only by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad’s Thomas Viaduct.

The monument is located in Mount Vernon Place, a popular square in Baltimore’s historic Mount Vernon neighborhood. You’ll find other monuments and statues, as well as the Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church, in this area, too. The church is notable for its Gothic Revival architecture and the site of the first Easter sunrise service in 1876.

While exploring the Mount Vernon neighborhood, consider adding a historic foodie tour to your itinerary. It includes stops at four neighborhood restaurants in addition to some of the best views in the area.

Music lovers may also want to add a stop at Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, home of the incredible Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

7. American Visionary Art Museum

American Visionary Art Museum Building
rkramer62 / Flickr, CC BY 2.0.

Address: 800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230, United States

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Baltimore that are a little bit out of the ordinary, look no further than the American Visionary Art Museum. This museum is devoted to art created by self-taught artists, also known as visionary artists. The museum prides itself on being the nation’s premier museum for showcasing self-taught, intuitive artistry.

It was founded in 1995 in a former canning factory in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor area. Some topics covered by the museum’s exhibitions include outsider art, folk art, and contemporary art.

In addition to its exhibitions, the American Visionary Art Museum offers various educational programs. These programs include workshops, tours, and lectures.

The museum has a gift shop full of souvenirs and a cafe to refuel. The American Visionary Art Museum is one of Baltimore’s most unique attractions.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in the US

8. Maryland Zoo

Macaw in Maryland Zoo
Michael Bentley / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

Address: 1 Safari Pl, Baltimore, MD 21217, United States

Located in Druid Hill Park and having first opened its doors in 1876, the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is one of the oldest zoos in the United States.

This historic zoo is home to hundreds of animals, representing over 130 species. Some animals you can see at the zoo include lions, parrots, elephants, giraffes, and penguins.

It’s hard to top a visit to druid hill if you’re traveling with kids. The zoo offers a number of family-friendly activities, such as behind-the-scenes tours, feedings, and educational programs. You can also have breakfast with the animals but purchase tickets early–this event series sells out quick!

You can also take advantage of the onsite park’s many other amenities, such as walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. With so much to see and do, it’s not surprising the the zoo is one of the most popular Baltimore attractions.

9. Federal Hill Park

Federal Hill Park Scenery
Iracaz at English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Address: 300 Warren Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230, United States

Ready to explore Baltimore’s parks? First up is Federal Hill Park, a former lookout point during the Civil War for Union troops. These days, the park offers panoramic views of the Inner Harbor and beyond. The park is a picturesque spot for picnics, relaxation, and people-watching.

The park is one of Baltimore’s most popular green spaces. The hike to the top of the park is a bit steep, but the views from the top of the hill are worth it, and kids love the playground and basketball courts, too.

Federal Hill Park is a great spot to spend the day, and admission is free. This park is open daily from dawn to dusk and is easily accessible by public transportation.

While in the historic Federal Hill area, consider partaking in a Federal Hill Food Tour. The guided tour includes stops (and tasty dishes) at several local restaurants. The tastings consist of traditional Maryland cuisine, giving tour guests an authentic taste of Baltimore.

See Related: Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

10. Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum

Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum Building

Address: 203 N Amity St, Baltimore, MD 21223, United States

The Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum is the home where Poe once lived as a poet and author in the 1880s, before his untimely death.

Today, the Poe House is a museum dedicated to the life and work of this famous writer. The museum offers tours of Poe’s former home and exhibits on his life and literary career. Visitors can see some of the artifacts that belonged to Poe, such as his writing desk and chair.

The home has been restored, and visitors can see original furniture, Poe’s personal effects, and other displayed items. The museum has a number of rotating exhibitions that showcase different aspects of Poe’s life and work.

The Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum is a great place to learn more about the author and his many works and to participate in workshops, lectures, and readings. You can also purchase Poe-themed merchandise such as books, t-shirts, and mugs.

Don’t miss the Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour for more Charm City history. The cost-effective app tour starts at the Inner Harbor and ends at Fort McHenry with fascinating stops in between. You may be surprised at how much history is hiding throughout Baltimore.

11. Oriole Park at Camden Yards

Oriole Park at Camden Yards - baseball stadium exterior view
Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers

What’s better than watching a baseball game on a warm summer day? How about watching a baseball game on a warm day, plus hot dogs and beer while seated among the best fans in the Major League Baseball League? If the O’s are in town, head to Camden Yards.

This ballpark (technically called Oriole Park at Camden Yards) is where the Baltimore Orioles play – and it’s always packed with the best baseball fans in the country. Listen to the house rendition of the star-spangled banner (O! say, can you see?), and you’ll realize how much Bmore loves its team.

In addition to watching the Orioles play games and belting out the National Anthem, there are several other fun things to do at Camden Yards. Visitors can tour the ballpark and explore the O’s Museum or attend one of the live music performances and festivals the park hosts every year.

Sports fans will also enjoy visiting The Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum. Along with honoring baseball legend Babe Ruth, the Baltimore-based museum also features other historic sports exhibits that will take you back in time.

See Related: Best East Coast Vacation Spots in the US

12. National Aquarium

National Aquarium
Kimberlyshorter / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202, United States

If you’ve never visited the National Aquarium, be prepared to have the time of your life. This famous worldwide aquarium is one of the most popular Baltimore attractions.

It’s home to more than 20,000 animals, making it one of the world’s largest collections of marine life. The aquarium has impressive exhibits like the Atlantic Coral Reef, Maryland: Mountains to the Sea exhibit, and Shark Alley.

In addition to its many exhibits, the National Aquarium offers behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and lectures. The aquarium also has a 4D Immersion Theater, where visitors can watch short films about marine life.

The National Aquarium is a great place to learn about the ocean and the many creatures that call it home. And, of course, the gift shop at the National Aquarium is a great place to find souvenirs for your friends and family.

The National Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Baltimore with kids, and it’s particularly crowded on a rainy day. The interactive exhibits and educational programs make the aquarium a great place to spend a day, no matter what the weather is like outside. The aquarium is open year-round, but hours may vary seasonally.

13. B&O Railroad Museum

B&O Railroad Museum Exhibit
Eli Pousson / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Address: 901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223, United States

The B&O Railroad Museum highlights the history of railroad transportation in the United States. The museum houses more than 250 locomotives and railroad cars, making it one of the largest collections of its kind in the world.

The B&O Railroad Museum is a great place to learn about the history of transportation in the United States. Browse through the extensive collection of locomotives, cars, and artifacts, or ride on a historic steam engine. No matter how you spend your time at the B&O Railroad Museum, you’re sure to leave with a greater appreciation for the railroads’ role in the development of the United States.

During Christmastime, the B&O Railroad Museum even offers a Polar Express-themed train ride, making it one of the best things to do in Baltimore during the holidays. Visitors attending the Polar Express live show are invited to show up in their pajamas and hop onboard a Christmas-themed train to enjoy a live performance of The Polar Express. Then, they’ll have the opportunity to meet Santa and receive their first Christmas gift of the year!

The B&O Railroad Museum is open year-round, but hours may vary seasonally, so check the website before planning your visit. The special exhibits must be booked in advance and fill up quickly, so be sure to book your tickets early if interested in seeing one of their rotating exhibits or The Polar Express event.

See Related: Best Museums in the US You Need to Visit

14. Druid Hill Park

Druid Hill Park Scenery
Scott218 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 900 Druid Park Lake Dr, Baltimore, MD 21217, United States

Druid Hill Park is a 745-acre oasis that was Baltimore’s first large municipal park and one of the first large public parks in America. Established in 1860, the park resembles Central Park in New York and Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, the country’s oldest large urban parks.

There are lots of historic landmarks here, including the Maryland Zoo, Rawlings Conservatory, and the Druid Hill Reservoir. The park features a number of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a disc golf course. While exploring, be on the lookout for whimsical tree sculptures as well.

This city park is open year-round, and its many trails are perfect for walking, running, or biking. There’s a botanical garden, an assortment of sports fields and courts, and a zoo!

15. Baltimore Basilica

Baltimore Basilica Interior
Farragutful / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Address: 409 Cathedral St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States

The Baltimore Basilica, or the Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a Roman Catholic cathedral that was the first Roman Catholic cathedral built in the United States and is one of the most significant religious buildings in the country.

The Baltimore Basilica was designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who also designed the U.S. Capitol building. Construction of the Basilica began in 1806 and was completed in 1821.

It is built in the neoclassical style and features a massive portico supported by six ionic columns. The Basilica interior is just as impressive as the exterior, with a grandiose marble altar, beautiful stained glass windows, and intricate frescoes.

You do not need to be religious to appreciate the architectural beauty of the Baltimore Basilica. The Basilica is open to the public for tours Monday through Saturday. Mass is held at the Basilica on Sundays.

See Related: Best Places to Travel Alone in the World

16. Port Discovery Children’s Museum

Port Discovery Children’s Museum Building
Port Discovery / Wikimedia Commons

Address: 35 Market Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202, United States

Ranked amongst the top five children’s museums in the country by Parents magazine, Port Discovery is a must for those visiting Baltimore with kids. The museum features three floors of hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity and imagination in children.

Some of the museum’s most popular exhibits include The Port, where children can use their imagination to become the captain of a life-size cargo ship; Tiny’s Diner, where kids can pretend to be a chef or waiter in a 50s-style diner; and Wonders of Water, which allows children to splash around a stream table, bubble hoop, and more.

Kids will love climbing the SkyClimber, which helps build motor skills and learn problem-solving skills. There are sensory-friendly activities as well as attractions that are accessible for wheelchair users.

Port Discovery is open Tuesday through Sunday; hours vary by day. The museum is available for birthday parties and other special occasions. With so much to see and do, Port Discovery is a blast if you visit with kids.

17. Sculpture Garden, BMA

The Sculpture Garden at the Baltimore Museum of Art, in Baltimore
jonbilous / Adobe Stock

Address: 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States

The Sculpture Garden is a wondrous place to explore scenery-surrounded sculptures on the Baltimore Museum of Art campus. Designed in 1980 by George Patton, this nearly 3-acre garden was originally built to hold the personal artwork collection of the late artists Alan and Janet Wurtzburger.

The 17,000-foot garden features a variety of sculptures by both local and international artists, as well as a reflecting pool, fountains, and benches where visitors can sit and enjoy the peace.

On a stroll through the garden, you’ll find over 33 sculptures sprinkled across the lawn. The Sculpture Garden is the perfect place to spend a sunny day, plus it’s open daily and is free to the public.

See Related: Best Road Trips in the USA

18. Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar

Food at Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Ba
Missvain / CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 402 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230, United States

If you’re looking for dinner with a view, look no further than the Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar. The Rusty Scupper is a contemporary seafood restaurant that serves fresh, delicious seafood dishes and offers 360-degree views of Baltimore from every table, making it the perfect place to watch the sunset during your meal or enjoy a nightcap.

The menu features classic seafood items, as well as steak, chicken, and pasta dishes. Some of the most popular items on the menu include crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and lobster macaroni and cheese.

Start with an order of the crab dip, a Maryland staple, before digging into a hearty entrée like the crab cake sandwich or the jumbo lump crab cakes. The Rusty Scupper is known for its fresh seafood options, so be sure to ask your server about what’s fresh and in season!

The Rusty Scupper is open for lunch and dinner and is one of the best places in Baltimore to enjoy a meal with a view. This seafood restaurant is located above the Inner Harbor Marina and offers stunning views of the Inner Harbor.

19. Fell’s Point

Bond Street, in Fells Point, Baltimore, Maryland
jonbilous / Adobe Stock

There’s no discussing the best things to do in Baltimore without mentioning the iconic local neighborhoods. The historic cobblestone streets of Fells Point date back to the 18th century. Along those streets are brick sidewalks and old buildings full of character.

Most old buildings house local bars and pubs; dozens of them are in the neighborhood. With so many pubs, the Fell’s Point area is bustling with nightlife.

Make your Fell’s Point visit even more memorable with a Haunted Pub Crawl. The two-hour tour takes you to several area pubs that are said to have a haunting past. Spooky stories plus drinks sound like a perfect combination.

There are lots of shops and boutiques tucked between the restaurants and bars, plus you can enjoy the cool breeze blowing in from the Patapsco River.

Some of the best hotels in Baltimore are found around Fell’s Point, such as the iconic Sagamore Pendry. The hotel offers indoor dining, a luxury pool, water views, and top-notch accommodations.

20. Top of the World Observation Level

Elevated walkway and the World Trade Center at night in Baltimore
jonbilous / Adobe Stock

Baltimore’s World Trade Center may look ordinary compared to the many surrounding attractions, but it’s anything but. The building actually has five sides and is known as the world’s tallest regular pentagonal-based skyscraper. Along with setting a world record, it also has an incredible view from the top.

Top of the World Observation Level is located on the 27th floor of the building. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and military members, $5 for kids ages 3-12, and free for children under age 3. The observation level is closed Monday and Tuesday; hours vary the remaining days of the week.

Once you reach the 27th floor, marvel at the wrap-around windows allowing 360-degree views of the city and harbor. The scenic sights are spectacular just before sunset, so time your visit right. Don’t forget to charge your cell phone beforehand because you’ll definitely want to snap plenty of pictures from your perch.

21. Little Italy

Row houses in Little Italy, Baltimore, Maryland
jonbilous / Adobe Stock

Baltimore (and the rest of Maryland) is known for seafood, but you can’t miss the authentic Italian cuisine when visiting the city. Head to the Little Italy neighborhood to do just that.

This Baltimore neighborhood is mostly home to descendants of Italian-American immigrants. Along with residing in the area, many families also cook authentic Italian dishes and serve them at neighborhood restaurants.

Favorite neighborhood eateries include La TavolaLa ScalaDalesio’s, and Joe Benny’s Focacceria. Stop by Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop for dessert, often rated the number-one bakery in Baltimore.

With so many neighborhood restaurants, it can be difficult to choose which one to visit if limited in time. How about trying this and that by going on a Little Italy and Jonestown food tour? The tasty tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. During that time, guests will sample several specialties of early 19th–century Jewish and Italian immigrants. Yum!

If you’re up for even more adventuring, consider partaking in a Baltimore scavenger hunt. Points of interest include the USS Constellation, Power Plant, and more.

Looking for a place to stay in this Italian-infused area? BlancNoir is an inviting bed & breakfast that doesn’t disappoint.

22. Patterson Park

Pagoda-style tower in Patterson park, Baltimore
Sergey Novikov/ Adobe Stock

Patterson Park covers 133 acres in southeast Baltimore with nature paths, a lake, and a towering pagoda that will make you feel like you’re in another country.

The pagoda, or observatory, was built in the 1890s and is a designated Baltimore City landmark. You can admire the exterior or tour the interior from noon to 6 pm on Sundays, mid-April through October.

Photographers flock to this unique structure to capture the intricate details of scenic surroundings. Spring is a popular time for photographs when pretty pink blossoms frame the observatory.

Outdoor events and classes, such as nature-themed art classes and bird walks, are often held at the park. Patterson Park Audubon Center, the only Audubon Center in Baltimore, hosts the bird walks.

Along with up-close beauty, Patterson Park is also wow-worthy from up above. Adventurers will love a helicopter tour over the city. An impressive amount of sites can be viewed during the 20-minute tour, from Baltimore’s parks to its neighborhoods, landmarks, and more.

23. Hampden

Holiday Lights and Decoration in Hampden, Baltimore Maryland
Christian Hinkle / Adobe Stock

Hampden is Baltimore’s most eclectic neighborhood, with lots of colorful shops, eateries, and artsy decor. Locals pay homage to “hon”-style with flamingo-clad outfits, cat-eye sunglasses, and big hair.

Hampden locals aren’t the only ones full of personality — so are the neighborhood events. Honfest is an annual summer festival with fun and quirky activities, such as the Hon (beehive hairstyle) contest.

You also don’t want to miss out on Krampuslauf, which takes place during the holiday season. Folks dress as Krampus, parade around town, and sing holiday carols with dark and twisted lyrics.

Speaking of the holidays, Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood is also known for its annual Miracle on 34th Street display. Head to West 34th Street and marvel at the block of rowhomes decked out in whimsical holiday decor. This Charm City tradition has been going strong for over 70 years and shows no sign of stopping.

24. Sherwood Gardens

Gardens and large home at Sherwood Gardens Park, in Baltimore
jonbilous/ Adobe Stock

Sherwood Gardens covers 6-acres in northern Baltimore and is always a stunning place to visit, especially during springtime. That’s when 50,000 tulips bloom throughout the grounds, a magical sight to behold.

Tulips vary in color from yellow to red, white to pink, and more. Along with tulips, Sherwood Gardens is also home to flowering dogwoods, magnolias, azaleas, and hydrangeas.

Although known for its plant life, Sherwood Gardens is also full of history. The gardens were created in 1920, making this Baltimore attraction over 100 years old. Generations of Baltimoreans have made Sherwood Gardens an annual tradition; it’s not hard to see why.

Sherwood Gardens is a privately owned community park, but public admission is open and free. Be respectful of the grounds and leave nothing behind. Take nothing but photos and memories.

25. Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley, in the Station North District of Baltimore, Mary
jonbilous / Adobe Stock

Spraying graffiti is illegal in Maryland except for one place — Graffiti Alley. Find this lively, L-shaped alley hiding along N Howard and W 19 1/2 Street in Baltimore.

Local graffiti artists are encouraged to leave their mark at Graffiti Alley without fear of persecution. While some people tag their initials, other artists create entire murals.

Along with inspiring self-expression, this spot is a mood booster with uplifting colors galore. The alleyway is frequently repainted throughout the year, so you’ll likely see something new each time you visit.

While admiring the street art at Graffiti Alley, you may also spot photographers snapping photos or folks circling break dance competitions. The art at Graffiti Alley inspires many forms of expression, making it a great urban oasis for collaborating and energizing the mind.

How to Get around Baltimore

Baltimore is a very walkable city; most major attractions can be reached on foot. However, public transportation options exist for those who don’t want to walk or those who are looking to explore beyond the downtown area.

The Baltimore Metro Subway is a quick and easy way to get around the city. The subway has two lines, the green line and the purple line. The green line runs north to south, and the purple line runs east to west.

The Charm City Circulator is a free bus service that runs throughout Baltimore. The Charm City Circulator has four routes, each covering a different part of the city. The Charm City Circulator is a great way to get around if you want to explore beyond the downtown area.

You could also rent a car if you plan on exploring other nearby cities and want more flexibility with your transportation options. I recommend RentalCars.com; they typically have the best rates and customer service.

Did you know you can also travel by boat to the Charm City? Hop on the Baltimore Water Taxi, which has seven stops, including downtown Baltimore. It’s quicker (and easier) to take the Baltimore Water Taxi across the harbor rather than walking around the perimeter.

FAQ

What are the best family-friendly activities in Baltimore?

The best family-friendly attractions include Port Discovery Museum, the Maryland Zoo, and the National Aquarium. The Inner Harbor area is also full of attractions for all ages. Families can explore the water by paddle boat, go on a pirate cruise, or get an up-close view of historic ships.

Are there any free or low-cost attractions in Baltimore?

Pack a picnic and explore Baltimore for free at a local park. Climb the stairs to Federal Hill Park and enjoy the skyline, or people-watch at the beautiful Patterson Park.

Admire street art at Graffiti Alley or immerse yourself in modern art and beyond at the Baltimore Museum of Art. Other free Baltimore museums and attractions include George Peabody Library and Baltimore’s Washington Monument.

What are the best tourist attractions in Baltimore?

Baltimore’s most popular tourist attractions are the Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, and the Maryland Zoo. Other tourist attractions include the B&O Railroad Museum, Fort McHenry, American Visionary Art Museum, Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum, and The Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture.

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