Being the largest independent city in the US, Baltimore has something for every kind of traveler. Rich in culture and traditions, spend your days delving into history in the city that produced the first railroad in America.
Take a water taxi from the Inner Harbor to Fort McHenry to see the place that inspired the national anthem, be delighted by the city’s museums or relax in Baltimore’s best gardens. If you’re into literature or sports, visit the Edgar Allan Poe memorial grave and the birthplace of the greatest baseball player, Babe Ruth.
Amusement parks, unique galleries and markets keep both young and old enthralled for hours … heck you can even go skydiving in Charm City!
There’s a heave of talent in Baltimore and it thrives on music and culture — as such there are plenty of venues and spaces around where you can catch a live performance or top entertainment acts from comedy hoots to iconic theater productions to rock concerts, even a Symphony Orchestra!
By the end of the day, stop by a local restaurant to eat the finest crab dishes and experience Baltimore’s memorable nightlife. Do you need more reasons to visit it? Read the full list and take note of the best things to do in Baltimore.
1 – Try the delicacies of Little Italy
In Baltimore’s Little Italy, you will find terrific food and warm hospitality. The area is near the Inner Harbor and wears its Italian heritage with pride. Aside from trying great Italian restaurants, bakeries and delis in the summer months, you can also visit the outdoor film festival.
Look out for the Bocce tournaments occurring in the neighborhood from May to September and a calendar full of social events and festivals.
2 – Explore the Inner Harbor
The Inner Harbor is a great place to begin a sightseeing tour in Baltimore. This historic shipbuilding area of the city is home to some of the city’s best museums, such as the Maryland Science Center and Port Discovery Children’s Museum.
For a night out, there are a bunch of fantastic places to eat and see live music at Power Plant Live! and fun water-based activities. Check out the Historic Ships in Baltimore, as you explore the area or take a boat tour.
3 – See the view from Washington Monument at Mount Vernon Place
The Washington Monument stands proudly at the center of the Mount Vernon neighborhood. You can climb the stairs inside the monument up to the lookout tower and see great views of Mount Vernon Place. There is also a gallery inside with digital exhibitions.
Mount Vernon Place is the cultural center of the city with some of its best museums. It also has good restaurants serving international dishes, as well as great nightlife with diverse bars and clubs.
4 – Rock out at CFG Bank Arena
It’s time to welcome the very latest entertainment player to the mix of cultural hotspots in Baltimore. Well, technically this venue is a long-standing spot in Baltimore, but it has been undergoing major renovations, renamed and reopened in February 2023 as the CFG Bank Arena.
Thanks to its upgrade, fans and visitors can enjoy state-of-the-art acoustics and enhanced lighting features which make all the difference. Plus, ‘superior suites, exclusive club levels and premium contemporary seating’ have been added.
Home to an amalgamation of concerts, shows and even sports matches, there’s something for everyone here. For example, see Bruce Springsteen on tour, catch the hysterical Jeff Dunham or check out a game during the CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament.
5 – Shop in the “hip” Hampden neighborhood
Hampden is the trendier part of Baltimore and has plenty of independent stores, boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants. This colorful district is also where you’ll find the best street art in town with plenty of spectacular murals and photo opportunities.
If you are looking for live music in the city the First Fridays Group and Hampdenfest put on regular events. Alternatively, check out the annual HONFest for a uniquely “Bawlmer” celebration.
6 – Take a walking tour of Fell’s Point
Fell’s Point is one of the oldest parts of the city and has diverse buildings and architecture, some of which date back to the 1700s. The area was once a busy port but is now home to small stores and restaurants.
Take a walking tour to learn about the history of the town and the multicultural communities who lived and worked here. Visit some of Fell’s Point’s best restaurants and try the local specialties.
7 – Snap hundreds of pics at the Take a Shot Selfie Museum
How many times in your life can you say you’ve visited a selfie museum??? Certainly unique to say the least, the Take a Shot Selfie Museum is the first of its kind in Baltimore, located on a third-level rooftop.
So, what’s it all about? Conceptualized with a love for art and creativity, the museum has been designed across multiple rooms that each contain their own themed artwork/mural and props to boot.
At any given time there are more than 25 photo opportunities, however, the museum regularly updates the rooms with new art created by local artists.
Expect neon signage, funky wallpaper made from unusual materials like decks of cards, mirrored illusions and odes to favorite television series and films.
Both young and old will have a blast here! Naturally, make sure your phone is fully charged, arrive and then do your selfie thang.
8 – Visit the National Aquarium
The National Aquarium is located in the Inner Harbor and is a must-visit when in Baltimore. It is considered one of the country’s top aquariums and houses thousands of species of fish, mammals and sea creatures.
Visit different environments all under one roof, as you meet sharks from the Atlantic, snapping turtles from Australia and tree frogs from the Amazon. A visit to the National Aquarium is one of the most fun things to do while visiting Baltimore.
9 – Take a romantic sunset sailing tour
Sunset is a beautiful time of day to be on the water and the Chesapeake Bay offers a calm tranquil place to sail. Hop on a historic sailing boat and learn about the area from the knowledgeable crew.
Sip a glass of champagne and breathe in the fresh salt air, as you take in the sights. You can take a daytime or sunset cruise on the Chesapeake Bay, and shorter trips around the Inner Harbor.
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Experience a live concert by candlelight in Baltimore
Catch live performances on piano, violin and cello of classical music and tributes to your favorite modern bands and musicians, like Taylor Swift, Adele and Coldplay. Candlelight concerts take place in scenic venues across the city that don’t typically host concerts and events for an unforgettable backdrop to live renditions of your favorite tunes.
10 – See the birthplace of the “Star-Spangled Banner” at Fort McHenry
Fort McHenry has long been an important site in American history and is thought to have inspired the lyrics of the national anthem “Star-Spangled Banner.” It is now a national park and historic shrine, but was a strategic defense in the War of 1812 and also used in both World Wars.
It has a visitor center with a film and exhibits, and also puts on varied daily programs and events. Fort McHenry can be accessed by water taxi from the Inner Harbor.
11 – Check out the Moorish Tower at Druid Hill Park
The historic Druid Hill Park covers a gigantic 745 acres. The park is one of the oldest in the country and was established in 1860. The park has a lot of attractions, including the Maryland Zoo, the Rawlings Conservatory, a public pool, walking trails and a baseball field and basketball court.
There are plenty of monuments to see and old-fashioned pavilions built in Asian and Moorish styles. Druid Hill Park is definitely one of the most fun places to visit in Baltimore.
12 – See one of America’s oldest cathedrals, the Baltimore Basilica
The Baltimore Basilica was one of the first Roman Catholic cathedrals built in the US after the Declaration of Independence. It was designed by the revered architect, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who also designed the Capitol Building in Washington DC and parts of the White House.
The Basilica was consecrated in 1821 and is also a parish church and national shrine. It is built in a traditional cross-plan and features a huge dome at the center. It has been visited by numerous saints, as well as Pope John Paul II and Mother Theresa.
13 – Step inside the iconic Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse
Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse was built in 1857 and is one of the oldest Chesapeake lighthouses still standing. The distinctive lighthouse now resides on Pier 5 of the Inner Harbor, but formerly sat on a small island at the mouth of the Patapsco River.
The lighthouse contains an extensive exhibit with information and artifacts related to local lighthouses. Visitors can read accounts of what life was like for those who manned the station until its closure in 1948.
14 – Catch a game at Oriole Park, Camden Yards
Oriole Park is home to Major League Baseball team and three-time World Series Winners, the Baltimore Orioles. The park was built in the early 1990s and its “retro” design has influenced many other ballparks constructed after.
The site also has significance, as it is only a couple of blocks away from the all-time-great, Babe Ruth’s birthplace. You can visit the stadium to see a game or hit the store for Orioles Jerseys, caps and memorabilia.
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Go on a Journey through Time at Titanic: The Exhibition
Imagine stepping back in time and reliving the glory days of the Titanic. Explore carefully recreated environments, listen to testimonies from survivors, and take the opportunity to admire over 300 historical artifacts in this immersive exhibition. Take a journey into the past as the history of the world’s most famous ship is brought to life.
15 – Spend a day at the B&O Railroad Museum
The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum brings to life the history of the great American railroad. The B&O was America’s very first passenger railway and the museum has over 200 artifacts related to the railroad.
The museum’s location at Mount Clare is considered the birthplace of the American railroad and is found in the former B&O workshops. It has the country’s largest collection of early trains. Train rides are available on weekends.
16 – Eat everything at the Cross Street Market
We suggest we arrive VERY hungry to the Cross Street Market. With a history dating as far back as 1838, it holds a special place among locals’ hearts and has undergone many upgrades and restorations to the original building (which was constructed in 1871, prior to that the market was more an open, street-style affair).
Its latest amendment was recently in 2019 when the building was renovated. Originally vendors sold mainly fresh produce and meats, however today, the building houses 22 independent dining treats, but there are still some vendors that sell fresh goods like the Atlas Fish Market and Fenwick’s Choice Meats.
Gangster Vegan Organics, Taco Love Grill, Southside Burger Bar, Chicken Lab and Pizza di Joey are some of the food options, or for a sweet buzz hit up Crepe Crazy or Taharka Brothers ice-cream shop.
Quench your thirst at Cross Street Cocktails and Market Ale House (located in the center of the market and offering craft beers and cocktails), or refuel on specialty brews from Ceremony Coffee Roasters.
17 – Dine in style on a dinner cruise
What better way to start the evening than with a dinner cruise in Baltimore’s harbor. Pass major landmarks like Pride Mast Memorial and Francis Scott Key Bridge. Enjoy drinks and a three-course meal of seasonal foods, as the sun sets over the horizon.
Enjoy cabaret and dancing on board, and watch the twinkling lights of the Baltimore skyline in the distance. This has to be one of the best views in town!
18 – Feed the penguins at Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
Maryland Zoo is fun for everyone, especially for younger children. It is home to 130 different species, including Lions, elephants, giraffes, white rhinos and flamingos. Some of the zoo’s most popular residents are the African penguins and visitors can join them for feeding and training sessions.
The zoo offers special interactive feeding experiences with giraffes, tortoises and goats also. Why not go along and meet the animals?
19 – Discover the city with a scavenger hunt
Looking for a fun way to explore Baltimore? Scavenger hunts are a terrific way to get to know a new city. Use an app to guide you around some of the best-known sites and some secret gems.
Work together as a team or compete against each other, while deciphering clues and answering questions. A scavenger hunt is a great way to learn the city’s history and play games at the same time.
20 – Get around on the Baltimore Water Taxi
The water taxi is one of the most fun ways to travel between the city sights. The open-air water taxis run different routes through the harbor like a bus service. The taxis have been a staple of Baltimore harbor for over 40 years and are used by tourists and locals alike.
The taxis go to popular destinations like Fell’s Point, Fort McHenry and Maritime Park. You can pay for a single trip or pay per day to use the taxis as many times as you like.
21 – Get a bird’s-eye view of the city on a helicopter tour
Looking for a truly unforgettable experience on your visit to Baltimore? Take a helicopter tour of the city and see it like few people ever do. Soar over the downtown area and Northwest Harbor, and see major landmarks like Oriole Park, the Inner Harbor and M&T Bank Stadium.
Alternatively, take an airplane tour and get the chance to fly it yourself under the supervision of a trained pilot. This has to be the most thrilling way to experience Baltimore.
22 – Visit Edgar Allan Poe’s Memorial Grave
A visit to Edgar Allen Poe’s grave is a must for literary fans, especially lovers of horror and the macabre. The author’s famous poem “The Raven” gave him instant acclaim upon its release in 1845.
Renowned as one of the country’s most influential writers and a pioneer in his field, but in his lifetime, Poe was best known as a literary critic. His work “Murder at the Rue Morgue” is said to have inspired the modern detective story.
23 – Get the city’s best views at Top of the World Observation Level
Baltimore’s World Trade Center is one of the tallest buildings in the city at 405 feet and has some of the best views around. It is also the tallest regular pentagonal building in the world.
Its observation level, known as Top of the World, is on the 27th floor of the building and offers 360 degrees views of the city. The tower offers views over Federal Hill Park and the Inner Harbor, as well as the downtown area.
24 – Discover the culinary highlights on a food tour
Baltimore is well known for its crab dishes and steamed crab, and crab cakes are ubiquitous on most menus here. The pit beef sandwich is another now-famous Baltimore delicacy that combines smoky roast beef, mayonnaise and raw onions.
Take a tour through some local eateries and get to grips with what the city has to offer. Visit the diverse small restaurants serving up the best foods of Baltimore. This is a tour not to be missed.
25 – Dive into a sweet world at Hersheypark
Searching for a fun and riveting day excursion with the family? As the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania (a 1.5-hour drive from Baltimore), this isn’t the only thing that sets this special park apart…
Originally opening in 1906 as a leisure park for employees of the Hershey Chocolate Company (whose headquarters still remain in Pennsylvania), the Hershey Park was established by Milton S. Hershey himself, and has grown into a chocolate Hershey-themed wonderland!
Visitors both young and old have a thrilling time between the (dry) rides including more than 40 family-friendly options, the water park, the coasters and over 20 attractions just for kids.
Once you’re done laughing and squealing, explore some of the park’s other chocolate-centric features.
Stop by the Dark Night haunted houses (if you dare), attempt the classic carnival games which are scattered between rides, and meet and greet tons of Hershey’s favorite characters strolling around the grounds like Hershey’s, Ice Breakers, Kit Kat, Reese’s Nutrageous, Twizzlers and more — and yes, they are dressed as chocolate or candy bars.
Dine at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio where everything contains hints of cacao (located inside Chocolate Town), and the famous Hersheys Chocolate World is next door to the park where you make your own candy or chocolate and tour the factory.
26 – Witness the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall
There’s something so soothing about music and the capabilities it has to do things for the soul. For those with a serious love of music, revel in an evening at the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall.
In fact, the oval auditorium was built in 1982 with the orchestra in mind, and so it was designed accordingly. However, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra was established already in 1916, and the building was named after a former president of the Baltimore Symphony, Joseph Meyerhoff.
The main hall can seat up to 2,443 and its current musical director is conductor Jonathon Heyward.
There are shows that are also led by guest conductors, and other artists also perform on stage. Not only limited to orchestrated shows, contemporary artists, comedy acts, rock concerts, guest speaker talks, and jazz and gospel performances are held here too.
27 – Be inspired at the American Visionary Art Museum
The American Visionary Art Museum celebrates the work of self-taught artists and the joy of the creative process. In this fun museum, you will find unusual and unique works from artists who followed their own intuitive creative path.
The museum’s permanent collection includes 4,000 pieces and has 67,000 square feet of exhibition space. Go check out this wonderful museum to the free and quirky creations of people.
28 – Watch the sunset at Canton Waterfront
Canton Waterfront is an 8-acre park down by the harbor with fantastic views of Fort McHenry and the large US Navy ships docked in the nearby terminal. The site has a fishing pier that is free to all and a huge circular memorial to the Marylanders who died in the Korean War.
Canton Waterfront has harbor front benches which are a great place to sit and watch the sunset in one of the most picturesque parks in the city.
29 – Dig for dinosaur bones at Maryland Science Center
The Maryland Science Center has lots of fun interactive exhibits. It began life as the Maryland Academy of Sciences in 1797 and is one of the oldest science institutes in the country.
Explore the stars, see full-size dinosaur skeletons and travel inside the human body all in one museum. The center has live demonstrations to witness, as well as an IMAX theater, Planterarium and observatory. Don’t miss the Maryland Science Center!
30 – See ancient art at The Walters Art Museum
If you’re interested in ancient art, The Walters Art Museum is the place to visit in Baltimore. It has a substantial collection of artifacts from ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt, as well as the Americas and Asia.
It also has art from medieval Europe, the renaissance and baroque periods, as well as more modern works by 19th-century artists like Monet and Rousseau. Admission is free all year round.
31 – See the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium
The M&T Bank Stadium is home to two-time Super Bowl winners, the Baltimore Ravens. It sits opposite Oriole Park at the Camden Yards and has a huge 71,008 seating capacity. The stadium was built in 1998 and is one of the most modern and accessible stadiums in the country.
The stadium has also hosted college and high school football events, major soccer games and lacrosse championship matches, as well as concerts of the world’s biggest music acts.
32 – See modern art at Baltimore Museum of Art
The Baltimore Art Museum is another of the cities outstanding institutions that are free to visit. It has a huge collection of impressionist and post-impressionist artworks. Housing over 1,000 works by Matisse, the BMA has paintings by Picasso, Degas, Renoir and van Gogh.
The museum presents a changing series of regular exhibitions as well as its permanent collection. A must-see for art lovers!
33 – Spend the day at Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Looking for a fun place to visit with kids in Baltimore? Port Discovery is definitely it. The museum encourages learning through play and allows kids the opportunity to try music, dance, theater and art projects.
With three floors of equipment for climbing, sports, arts and crafts and playing, Port Discovery is ideal for kids of all ages. Plan a visit during your time in Baltimore.
34 – Take a picnic at Federal Hill Park
Federal Hill Park has some of the best views in the city, looking out over the Inner Harbor and the Chesapeake Bay. It has been a public park since 1880 and the area was mentioned in the notes of Captain John Smith from 1608.
The park has picnic areas and benches, a playground and basketball court, as well as a civil war era canon. It’s a great place to take a picnic and enjoy the views in the heart of the city.
35 – Visit the Reginald F. Lewis Museum
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum covers the history and culture of African American Marylanders. It has over 10,000 objects in its collection and covers the period from 1784 onward.
The museum’s permanent collection includes African artifacts, military items and many photographs. It has dedicated exhibits to slavery, as well as a Jazz archive. Learn about the rich heritage and cultural contributions of the African American people of Baltimore.
36 – Take a hot air balloon ride outside the city
Hot air balloon rides give a mixed sensation of adrenaline and serenity. Float on the early morning breeze, as the sun rises, and see the Baltimore countryside at its best. You will probably find that a hot air balloon ride is thrilling and soothing at the same time.
Take a romantic sunset or sunrise private flight and see the earth as the birds see it while gliding on air. A hot air balloon ride is an unforgettable experience.
37 – Learn about the city’s history at the Baltimore Museum of Industry
The Baltimore Museum of Industry focuses on Baltimore’s past as a production powerhouse in the United States. Learn about the industries and workers that made the city what it is today. Discover steel mills, forges and machine shops, as well as printworks, a pharmacy and a garment loft.
Feel what it was like to work in an industrial city and what life was like in this busy industrial hub. The interactive exhibits make the Museum of Industry is a really fun day out for the family.
38 – Have all the fun at Six Flags America
If one theme park isn’t enough, Six Flags America is there to provide all the adrenaline-inducing feels between their rides for all ages.
Open seasonally, beat the summertime heat on the water rides at the Hurricane Harbor zone, or adventure your way through the mix of rides and attractions where you won’t get wet, but your heart will certainly begin to race!
BATWING™ Coaster, Bourbon Street Fireball, HARLEY QUINN™ Spinsanity, Voodoo Drop and WONDER WOMAN™ Lasso of Truth are a touch of the thrill-producing rides.
Family-friendly options include the likes of the Flying Carousel, High Seas, Riddle Me This and Tea Cups, and for the little ones stop by the Looney Tunes Prop Warehouse, Yosemite Sam’s Hollywood Flight School, Foghorn Leghorn’s Tinseltown Train and more!
There are live shows on stage, as well as plenty of shopping and dining options.
39 – Go for a swim at Patterson Park
Patterson Park is the place to go in Baltimore to escape the busy city for a while. It is one of the largest green spaces in the city and is crammed full of fun stuff to do. Its outdoor public pool is a great place to cool off in the summer months and swim a few lengths.
You can also find shady pavilions to rest under, a beautiful Chinese-style observatory, playgrounds, community gardens and a boating lake. Patterson also has a dedicated dog park for your four-legged friend.
40 – Take a time out at Cylburn Arboretum
We all need time to escape the city now and again. Cylburn Arboretum offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Baltimore. The arboretum is a city park that covers 200 acres and is devoted to trees and plants, you won’t find basketball or tennis courts here.
You will find plenty of beautiful flower gardens, woods and trails to walk throughout. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like grey squirrels, possums, chipmunks and white-footed mice.
41 – See the magnificent George Peabody Library
George Peabody Library is probably one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It covers six floors and looks more like a palace than a place to store books. Its vaulted glass roof illuminates the gilded Neo-Grec style pillars, railings and marble floor.
The library’s collection dates from 1857 and includes 300,000 works that concentrate mainly on religion, science and technology, British art, exploration and geography and languages.
42 – Be a spy for a day at the National Cryptologic Museum
Want to understand more about the fascinating world of deciphering codes? Check out the National Cryptologic Museum. You will find exhibitions on the 18th-century cipher device, codes and signals used from the American civil war to the present day.
The collection includes many artifacts, historic machines and exhibits dedicated to the methods and people that risked their lives in pursuit of information. The museum is part of the National Security Agency and is located near the agency’s headquarters.
43 – Visit the White House on a Washington DC day trip
The nation’s capital is only an hour’s journey from Baltimore. Take a day trip and visit all the major sites in the city. See the US Capitol, the White House and the memorials of the great presidents, Washington, Lincoln and Jefferson.
Stop at Lafayette Park and see St. John’s Church, then visit the FDR and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorials. Knowledgeable tour guides will make sure this whistlestop tour of DC is both factual and entertaining.
44 – Take a tour of the Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower
Built by Emerson Drug Company in 1907, this iconic converted clock tower is now home to a museum, as well as artist studios, a performance area and gallery space. Visitors can take a guided tour of the galleries and are encouraged to visit the studios to meet the artists and buy work directly from them.
The top two levels house the Emerson/Maryland Glass Museum and the towers mechanical clock, which is the largest of its type in the world.
45 – Check out The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum
This is one of the only waxwork museums in the country that focuses on the contributions of African Americans to the nation. It celebrates national figures like Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rosa Parks, and Marylanders like Eubie Blake and Billie Holiday.
Visit a life-size replica of a slave ship and learn about the underground railroad, the fight for abolition and women’s rights, and the Harlem Renaissance. The museum has over 150 wax figures.
46 – Explore the WWII submarine, the USS Torsk
The USS Torsk is a historic submarine that was built in 1944 and served in World War II. The ship is now part of the Historic Ships in Baltimore Museum and is available to visit. Go on board to see how the crew lived and where they ate and slept.
See the torpedos, engine rooms and radio and communications areas. Visit the captain and officers’ dining areas and the ship’s conning tower, where the captain would direct from during an attack. This is a really fun place to visit in Baltimore.
47 – Meet “The Bambino” at Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum
George Herman Ruth, better known as Babe Ruth, is an American sporting legend and one of Baltimore’s proudest sons. Though he played most of his career for the Yankees, Ruth’s first team was the Orioles.
Visit the birthplace and museum to the “greatest baseball player of all time.” See the streets where he grew up, as well as artifacts and exhibits covering his career and home life. This is a must for all baseball fans.
48 – Visit the historic Star-Spangled Banner Flag House
Star-Spangled Banner Flag House is where the flag that inspired the national anthem was made. Sewn by local entrepreneur Mary Pickersgill, the flag was raised after a day-long attack of Fort McHenry by British Soldiers.
Francis Scott Key saw the raising of the flag and was inspired to write the lyrics that became the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Visit the house and museum where the flag was created and see a true national monument.
49 – Take a tour of Sagamore Spirit Distillery
The award-winning whiskies of Sagamore Spirit Distillery are produced right here in Baltimore! The distillery makes 10 different varieties of rye whisky using Maryland spring water.
Take a tour of the distillery and learn what goes into producing the finest rye whisky. Join a tasting event or pop into the bar for handmade cocktails and exclusive whiskies. The distillery also puts on live music through summer called “Whisky on the Waterfront.”
50 – Roll the dice at Horseshoe Casino
Fancy your luck while in Baltimore? Why not hit the Horseshoe Casino and beat the odds?! The casino has 153 table games, thousands of slot machines, a poker room and an outdoor gaming terrace.
It also has a selection of snacks bars, casual dining and upscale restaurants, and a program of regular entertainment, including DJ sets each weekend. Put on your poker face and hit the tables!
51 – Raise a toast on a Maryland wine tasting tour
Maryland is becoming increasingly well known for its quality wines. Take a day trip to the best local vineyards and learn the history of the region’s wines. Enjoy snacks while you sample Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Shiraz wines.
Discover how the climate influences the flavor of the wine and chat with the friendly and knowledgeable guide. This is a really fun way to learn more about Maryland outside of the city.
52 – Test your puzzle-solving in an escape room
Escape room challenges are a lot of fun for families and groups of friends. Work together to decipher clues and solve puzzles before the time runs out. Test your mental and physical capabilities in these fun mystery games.
Whichever of the four rooms you choose to go with at Charm City Clue Room, you’ll be required to use a whole lot of imagination and quick-thinking skills. ‘USS Constellation’ is the easiest and the ‘Dark Carnival’ escape room the most difficult.
Talk about selection. There are eight themed rooms at Breakout Games! Disarm the explosive in time during ‘Bomb Squad’, break free as a handcuffed prisoner in ‘The Kidnapping’ and explore the ins and outs of an abandoned household during ‘Mystery Mansion’.
All In Adventures Escape Rooms has endeavors suitable for all ages (children aged six years old and up can play) and is another locale with a variety of rooms to pick from. Zombie Apocalypse, Hollywood Premiere, Sherlock’s Library, Treasure Island and Superhero’s Adventure are some examples.
Step back to the year 1703 as you head off in search of the cursed Flying Dutchman; try to steal a dragon egg; break into Detective Al Ritchie’s home to retrieve evidence for the Severna Crew gang and more at Severna Park Escape Rooms.
53 – Join in the fun at Artscape
Artscape is Baltimore’s largest annual arts festival. Taking place in the Station North and Midtown districts, it features 140 artists and makers. The festival celebrates visual and performing arts, literature, dance and the culinary arts.
It usually draws huge crowds and is about to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Be sure to visit for three days of live music, great food and an immersive visual arts experience. Artscape is not to be missed.
54 – See a production at the Hippodrome Theatre
The Hippodrome is as grand as any building you could find in Baltimore. Now known as the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, it hosts theater productions and live music performances.
The theater first opened in 1914 and, for the next 70 years, was a movie palace and theater — putting on greats like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope and the Andrews Sisters among others. See a show and take in the ambiance of this great historic movie palace.
55 – Visit the Palm House at Rawlings Conservatory
The Rawlings Conservatory is a small but charming botanical garden in Baltimore. It was built in 1888 and was modeled on London’s Kew Gardens. Originally called the Druid Hill Conservatory, it is located in the larger Druid Hill Park.
The conservatory has greenhouses with simulated Mediterranean, desert and tropical climates, and an orchid house displaying a selection of over 30,000 varieties. The Victorian glass-and-steel palm house is one of the star attractions and is like stepping back in time.
56 – See the tulips at Sherwood Gardens
Sherwood Gardens in Guilford Park is renowned for its springtime tulip displays. The tulip tradition has been ongoing since the 1930s when the gardens were owned by local entrepreneur John Sherwood. His passion for flowers drew attention from passers-by, prompting him to open the gardens to the public.
Throughout the summer months, there is regular live music from members of the Baltimore School of Music and family days with activities for young and old.
57 – Watch a show at the performing arts centers
Get your cultural fix at some of Baltimore’s performing arts centers where live music, dance, theater and comedy take center stage.
An iconic institution in its own right, The Lyric Baltimore has been keeping crowds entertained since 1894!!! Operating today as a non-profit, some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry have graced its stage… Robin Williams, Santana, Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross and Dave Chappelle to name a few…
Flashforward to the 2020s and the live concerts and events are still going strong. See some of your favorite comedians, incredible musicals, award-winning dance shows and tributes to some of the greatest artists of our time, like Queen!
Another celebrated and historical venue is the Hippodrome Theatre. Over 100 years old, when it first opened in 1914 it was one of the first theaters to stage vaudeville-style productions. Originally, it predominantly screened films and acted as a movie theater (with a live orchestra until the 50s) but it closed in the 90s as a film house.
Then in 2004, the Hippodrome Theatre reopened as part of a massive restoration project. The historic building, along with two other 19th-century features formed an entertainment complex, The France-Merrick Performing Arts Center.
Today, the theater is home to plays and musicals, some fresh off of Broadway. Its high caliber of performances in the past includes Hamilton, Wicked, Cats, Aladdin, The Phantom of the Opera, Pretty Woman: The Musical, and Mean Girls, among others.
58 – Experience the thrill of skydiving
If you’ve never tried skydiving before, your trip to Baltimore could be the perfect time to give it a go. Take a tandem jump with qualified guides in complete safety. Hit speeds of 120 miles per hour, as you experience an exhilarating free fall.
Jump over the scenic Baltimore countryside before pulling the chute and floating to the ground. Skydiving is a must-try for daredevils!
Skydive Baltimore offers tandem jumps that last up to one minute of freefall time followed by an eight to 12-minute parachute flight. After a safety briefing at the skydiving center, gear up and prepare yourself mentally during the 15-minute ride in an aircraft into the sky above.
Then, with 3,352 meters of space and air between you and the ground, get ready to JUMP!
Not just exhilarating, this is one of the best ways to sweep in bird’s eye views of the scenery surrounding you. Soar above Aberdeen and see Chesapeake Bay and the Susquehanna River. You will descend your landing at Harford County Airport.
59 – Treat yourself to a luxury spa day
Nothing beats a day at the spa — especially when you’re vacationing. Relax, rejuvenate and treat yourself to an afternoon, or a couple of hours, at one of Baltimore’s luxe spas.
Choose from a luxurious selection of unique treatments and massage therapies at the ever-stylish Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, boasting views over the harbor. For the full works, book one of the Four Seasons Signature Moments, including massage, wraps, scrubs, exfoliations, hot stone therapy and more! Couples, enquire about the private night spa!
Ojas Wellness Center is all about working with our body’s essential energy. The Custom Wellness Massage combines Swedish techniques and deep-pressure therapies, or for moms-to-be, book a Pregnancy Massage. Cupping and Reiki Healing Massages are available too.
Bright, warm and stylish; The Spa at The Ivy is super inviting. Check out their massage therapies (like an ayurvedic facial massage and a probiotic massage), or one of their delicious-sounding body treatments like a Cashmere Quench including an exfoliation and body wrap.
Super cute, fuss-free and with a focus on spiritual and natural healing powers, the menu at The Healing Path has it all from massages to hydrafacials to peels. You can’t go wrong with the special Restore Himalayan Salt Stone massage.
60 – Taste traditional food at Thames Street Oyster House
Baltimore is well known for its seafood dishes and Thames Street Oyster House offers some of the city’s best traditional and modern cuisine. The restaurant serves up New England and Maryland classics, including 10 different kinds of oysters.
It prides itself on serving up only the finest local seafood and a great drinks selection, including beers, wines and handmade cocktails. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
61 – Mix it up at Fogo de Chao steakhouse
Fogo de Chao is a steakhouse with a Brazilian twist! The company started in Porto Alegre, Brazil, in 1979 and soon exported its brand of “churrasco” barbecue to the US. The restaurant serves a variety of steak, chicken, lamb and pork dishes, as well as fish and seafood.
Fogo de Caho chefs create exciting flavor combinations by pairing tropical fruit and spices for a really unique barbecue experience. Its à la carte menu allows you to choose your own unique combos.
62 – Try indoor skydiving
Without a doubt, one of the most fun things to do in Baltimore has to be indoor skydiving. If you’ve ever dreamed of skydiving but were too afraid, this is definitely for you.
Experience how it feels to free fall in a vertical wind tunnel. Have a training session with an experienced instructor, then try out your moves in the wind tunnel. This is ideal for first-timers as well as experienced skydivers.
63 – Grab drinks at the best bars in town
Looking for the perfect spot to knock back a couple of cold ones after adventuring around Baltimore with the family in the afternoon, or perhaps you’re after a bar for a nightcap after your dinner date? Here are some of the hottest bars in town!
Hunting down a unique spot full of character and ambiance? Just as its name gives away, the interiors at CHURCH have spiritual accents here and there, and a fabulous drinks menu of handcrafted cocktails, and wine and beer which rotate often.
All about the scrumptious drinks, Southpaw is an intimate, simple cocktail bar specializing in handcrafted, unique concoctions. Order the Cafe Varo (vodka, mezcal, cinnamon, Sophomore cold brew) or try the Brown Derby (bourbon, grapefruit, local honey).
Calling all gin connoisseurs; the drinks at Dutch Courage are centered around ‘gin-centric’ cocktails … They stock over 100 bottles of different types of the distilled alcoholic drink.
This little cocktail bar has a themed cocktail menu, ‘The Brothers Grimm’ and the drinks are named after your favorite fairytales, like ‘The Wolf & The 7 Little Kids,’ ‘Hansel and Gretel’ and ‘Cinderella.’ The Bluebird only uses locally sourced, organic ingredients.
Fadensonnen is a very cool wine bar with a nordic feel. Minimalist (and super insta-worthy) from the drinks to the setup, choose to sit in the upstairs tavern or grab a table at the beer garden.
64 – Go beer tasting
Do you consider yourself a master of hops? Suss out the beer scene for yourself in Baltimore, sampling the local crafts and stopping at microbreweries during a beer-tasting expedition.
There are dedicated tours (spanning 3.5 to five hours) where you will be taken around to four of the hottest breweries in town to learn about the production process, with up to 16 tastings included. Blessed with multiple brew houses, this is a convenient way to experience beer tasting, or you can venture to the individual spots yourselves.
Checkerspot Brewing has a strong focus on using local ingredients inspired by nature. With its on-site brewery, head to the taproom to taste their gluten-reduced beers, categorized by ‘the lighter side,’ ‘malt forward’ and ‘hop lovers.’
Take a tour behind the scenes at Union Craft Brewing (beer sampling included) and learn about the manufacturing process, or head straight to the beer garden for a couple of cold ones on tap.
Built inside a former church, the Ministry of Brewing has 32 rotating taps at any given time, and they often host fun events from trivia nights to pop-up markets. The taproom is in the main part of the once-used church and they also procure their own house cider and crafted sodas.
Make sure you buy a can from Nepenthe Brewing Co. illustrated with the most epic artwork, and their locally produced, in-house beers contain interesting notes like bubblegum, lime jello and fresh-cut grass! Funky or what?!
65 –
Order a round at these epic rooftop bars
There are your regular drinking holes, and there are rooftop bars — which, without a doubt, offer some of the best city views as well as sunset-watching options in Baltimore.
With nothing but the twinkling stars above you, the open-air LB SKybar (at the Lord Baltimore Hotel) expresses stunning vistas of the city surroundings from way up on the 19th floor.
Put on your fancy clothes and head straight to The Bygone. Feel like you’re stepping back in time to the roaring 20s with the birds way high up in the sky on the 29th floor. Grab drinks from the whiskey bar, or sip back on artisanal cocktails as you look out onto the waters.
Overseeing the cityscapes below, The Chasseur has both indoor and outdoor seating on the patio with an open-plan feel. They offer epic weekly specials like Thirst Thursdays, sushi on weekends and trivia nights.
Welcoming, super ambient and warm, from Topside rooftop bar, enjoy the scenes below you of the Mount Vernon neighborhood. Their special craft cocktails change with the seasons, so you can always expect something new on the menu.
How to get to Baltimore?
Travelers arriving in the city will enter through Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. If you’ve never traveled here before and are unfamiliar with the city, or are simply looking for a convenient way to reach your accommodation, consider booking pre-organized airport transfers.
As you land and have then collected your luggage, exit the airport where your private driver awaits, holding up a sign with your name on it — so you can feel extra important.
Traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, be transported directly to your hotel. Transfers are available to and from the airport.
Where to stay in Baltimore?
After long days of city sightseeing, exploring, eating and drinking, ensure you return to a stay with all the comforts and more for the best holiday experience. Here are some of Baltimore’s fabulous hotels and resorts.
Boasting luxe rooms with views to swoon over, the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore is absolutely gorgeous. Located right on the water, guests particularly favor the top-notch customer service.
For the modern traveler; appreciate the contemporary feels at the Canopy by Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point. Newly appointed and stylish, it overlooks the river — a wonderful way to wake up each day.
A taste of old meets new, the rooms have rich and luxe finishings and the Hotel Revival Baltimore is a gorgeous boutique hotel. Boasting rooms that are bright, open, clean and modern, rise to harborfront views at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront.
Take a step back in time at the 1840s Carrollton Inn. Decorated in old-world charm, guests enjoy the luxury finishings and ornate furniture.
Calling all business travelers, the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel is a fantastic option, and the snazzy hotel has everything you need from desks in the room to its cafe serving Starbucks.
If sleep is one of your top priorities, fall straight into LaLa Land the moment your head touches the pillows, your body falling into soft slumber thanks to the extra comfy beds at Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown. Located in the historic district, this is a perfect pick to escape the bustle and crowds.
Where to go next?
Once your time is up in Baltimore, think about extending your holiday in the US and traveling to other epic destinations nearby.
Choose to travel south and visit the country’s capital city, Washington DC. Great for a day trip or an overnight stay (the drive between Baltimore and DC is one hour only), there is so much to do and see centered around history, politics, culture and outdoor venturing.
Dripping in museums of all sorts, important historical monuments and landmarks, uncover Virginia’s capital city, Richmond — a two-hour and 45-minute drive from Baltimore.
Head North instead and explore Philadelphia (home of the original Philly Cheesesteak) in under two hours, or discover all that New York City has to offer for those who dream of visiting the Big Apple. NYC is further than Philadelphia and is just over a three-hour drive from Baltimore.
Finally, don’t miss the chance to investigate fascinating Gettysburg. Ideal for a day trip as it is one hour and 20 minutes away, it feels as if you’re traveling back decades (in the best way possible) and the city is rich in American history.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re a history buff or a mega-sports fan, this important city has something for all types of travelers to enjoy.
If this isn’t your first rodeo in Charm City, what are your top things to do in Baltimore or your favorite places to eat and drink? Readers, let us know in the comments.
As always, happy and safe travels!