Things To Do
in Baltimore

Baltimore, known as the Charm City, is a vibrant metropolis located on the Chesapeake Bay. It boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and a renowned arts scene, making it an exciting destination for travelers. The city is famous for its historical neighborhoods, waterfront attractions, and a strong culinary tradition, especially its seafood.

With a mix of urban living and natural beauty, Baltimore offers something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Inner Harbor
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the American Visionary Art Museum, showcasing eclectic art from self-taught artists. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Inner Harbor.

afternoon
:

Visit the National Aquarium, where you can explore marine life from the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. Have lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, such as Phillips Seafood.

evening
:

End your day with a stroll through Fells Point, enjoying the historic cobblestone streets, and dine at a local eatery like The Point.

day 2
Day 2: History and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem. Take a guided tour to learn about its historical significance.

afternoon
:

Visit the Baltimore Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of 19th-century art and contemporary pieces. Enjoy lunch at the museum café.

evening
:

Experience Baltimore's nightlife in the Hampden neighborhood, where you can find live music venues and cozy bars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
🍺Domestic beer (pint)$5
🚌Public transportation ticket$2.00
🛏️Hotel per night (3-star)$150
Coffee$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Diverse culinary scene with fresh seafood.
  • Vibrant arts and music community.
  • Some areas may have safety concerns.
  • Traffic congestion can be an issue.
  • Weather can be humid in summer and cold in winter.

Places to Visit in Baltimore

Visit one of these nice places.

The Inner Harbor

A picturesque waterfront area with stunning views of the skyline, perfect for sunset shots.

Fort McHenry

Historical landmark with scenic views of the harbor, ideal for capturing both history and nature.

Fells Point

Charming streets with historic buildings and vibrant nightlife provide beautiful backdrops for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Baltimore

Baltimore's culinary scene is a delightful mix of flavors, heavily influenced by its coastal location and cultural diversity. Seafood is a must-try, especially the famous Maryland blue crabs.

Baltimore Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Crab Cakes

Deliciously seasoned and often served with remoulade, crab cakes are a Baltimore staple.

Must-Try!

Old Bay Fries

French fries seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, a local favorite that pairs well with seafood.

Pit Beef

A Baltimore classic, pit beef is a smoked beef sandwich often served with horseradish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lexington Market

One of the oldest public markets in America, offering a variety of local delicacies and fresh produce.

Preakness Stakes Food Festival

Held during the horse race, this festival features local food vendors and unique street food offerings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Baltimore has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach the 80s°F (27-37°C), while winters can drop to the 20s°F (-6 to -1°C). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with occasional snow in winter. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly smile and a simple 'hello' or 'how are you?' is common among locals.

Personal Space

Respect personal space; Baltimoreans appreciate a comfortable distance during conversations.

Timing

Being punctual is appreciated, especially for formal events or dining.

Safety Guide

Safety

Baltimore has areas that are known for higher crime rates; it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas and use reputable transportation options. Keeping valuables out of sight and staying in well-lit areas can enhance your safety while exploring the city.

Tipping in Baltimore

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip 15-20% in restaurants. For bartenders, $1 per drink is standard.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather can bring humidity; enjoy water activities and festivals around the harbor.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and fall foliage create a picturesque setting for exploring parks.

Winter

Cold weather may bring snow; indoor attractions like museums are ideal for visiting.

Nightlife Guide

Baltimore at Night

Baltimore's nightlife is diverse, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular areas like the Power Plant Live! and Fells Point offer a range of options, from dance clubs to cozy pubs. Live music is prevalent, especially in neighborhoods like Hampden and Canton, where you can find everything from jazz to indie rock performances.

Hiking in Baltimore

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Patapsco Valley State Park

Just outside Baltimore, this park offers numerous trails for hiking, with scenic views of the Patapsco River.

Gunpowder Falls State Park

A large park with trails that wind through forests and along streams, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Baltimore by plane.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Located about 10 miles from downtown Baltimore, BWI is the primary airport serving the area, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Baltimore is generally walkable, especially in neighborhoods like Fells Point, Hampden, and the Inner Harbor, where attractions are close together. Sidewalks are available, and many areas are pedestrian-friendly. However, some neighborhoods may require a vehicle or public transport for convenience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

African American Community

A significant demographic group that has played a vital role in shaping Baltimore's culture, history, and arts.

Immigrant Communities

Baltimore is home to various immigrant groups, contributing to the city's diversity and cultural richness.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

The Baltimore Orioles, the city's Major League Baseball team, play at Camden Yards, known for its historic charm.

Football

The Baltimore Ravens, the NFL team, have a passionate fan base and play at M&T Bank Stadium.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Baltimore can be congested, particularly during rush hours. The city has a network of public transportation options, including buses and the light rail, which are reliable for getting around. Ridesharing services are also widely available and convenient for reaching destinations quickly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Baltimore.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options, especially in trendy neighborhoods like Hampden.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available in most eateries, with dedicated menus in some restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Baltimore has a robust healthcare system with several top-rated hospitals, including Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center. Emergency services are readily available, and many clinics cater to various health needs. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance to cover any potential medical expenses.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide