Things To Do
in Bel Air
Bel Air is a charming town in Harford County, Maryland, about 25 miles northeast of Baltimore. Centered around its historic Main Street, Bel Air blends small-town charm with modern shops, restaurants, and community events. The community hosts farmers markets, seasonal festivals, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.
With leafy neighborhoods, clean sidewalks, and easy access to parks and nature, it serves as a tranquil base for exploring the greater Baltimore region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and artisanal coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the picturesque Bel Air Park, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and lush surroundings. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the stunning views and beautiful landscape.
Head to the iconic Getty Center for an afternoon of art and culture. Explore the impressive art collections and take a walk through the beautiful gardens while enjoying panoramic views of Los Angeles. You can also grab lunch at the café, which offers a delightful selection of seasonal dishes.
As the sun sets, make your way to a high-end restaurant in Bel Air for a gourmet dinner experience. Sample delicious cuisine prepared by top chefs while soaking in the elegant ambiance. End the night with a leisurely stroll through the peaceful neighborhood, appreciating the beautifully lit homes and gardens.
Begin your morning with a refreshing hike at the nearby Getty View Park, where you’ll find trails that offer stunning views of the city. Enjoy the beauty of nature as you breathe in the fresh air and engage with fellow hikers. Make the most of this tranquil setting before the heat of the day sets in.
After your hike, treat yourself to a nourishing lunch at one of the local health-conscious eateries. Spend some time at the Bel Air reserved area, where you can lounge in the sun or read a book under a shady tree. The serene environment is perfect for relaxation and recharging.
Wind down your day at a sunset yoga class hosted on a scenic terrace. As you connect with your breath and the surrounding nature, the vibrant colors of the sunset will enhance your practice. After yoga, enjoy a light dinner at a cozy bistro, savoring the seasonal offerings on the menu.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠Rent (1-bedroom in city center) | $1,300-1,800 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 💊Medical visit co-pay | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to Baltimore and nature
- Strong community feel and family-friendly events
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller restaurant scene may require trips to nearby towns
Places to Visit in Bel Air
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic mansion on the edge of Bel Air with elegant architecture and garden grounds ideal for portraits and architectural shots.
Historic storefronts, ivy-covered walls, and charming street scenes perfect for street photography.
Scenic river views from forest trails provide nature photography opportunities.
Dramatic cliff views and the Breakneck Bridge offer dramatic landscape photography.
Food in Bel Air
Bel Air Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic crab cakes with lump crab meat and light binding, best enjoyed at local seafood spots.
Must-Try!
Seasoned with Old Bay, a Maryland staple; perfect during crab season.
A layered yellow sponge cake with chocolate frosting, a Maryland dessert tradition.
Fresh Chesapeake Bay oysters served with lemon and mignonette.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, bread, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite and friendly; a simple hello and please goes a long way; address adults with Mr./Ms. as appropriate.
Follow posted signs; wait your turn in queues and avoid blocking driveways.
Safety
Tipping in Bel Air
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tipping 15-20% at restaurants is standard; 10-15% for smaller services; tip more for exceptional service.
Most places accept cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments; keep small bills for tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with humidity; look for outdoor events, farmers markets, and evening activities.
Cooler days with colorful foliage, harvest festivals, and comfortable hiking weather.
Cold weather with occasional snow; indoor museum visits and cozy cafés.
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; ideal for outdoor walks and photography.
Bel Air at Night
Hiking in Bel Air
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails along the Gunpowder River with river views and wildlife.
Challenging ridgeline hikes with dramatic cliff views and a famous bridge.
Paved and natural surface trails through forested terrain along the river.
Airports
How to reach Bel Air by plane.
Major airport serving the region with domestic and international flights, about 25-40 miles away depending on route.
Large hub offering many destinations; roughly 90-100 miles away by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children and strong community ties.
Commuters who travel to Baltimore or surrounding counties for work.
Nearby colleges and universities attract students and graduates in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Maryland is known for lacrosse culture; local youth and college programs are common in the region.
Community leagues and nearby minor league teams; easy-going outdoor play in parks.
Amateur and school football are popular and often accompanied by family outings on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bel Air.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bel Air restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; look for salads, veggie pastas, and veggie bowls; ask for customization where needed.