Baltimore United States Map Travel Guide
Introduction
Baltimore, Maryland is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, food, culture, or outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty to do in this bustling metropolis. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in Baltimore is the National Aquarium, which houses over 20,000 animals and offers interactive exhibits and experiences. The Baltimore Museum of Art is also a must-visit, with an impressive collection of contemporary and classical art. For a taste of history, visit Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, which inspired the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner.
Hidden Gems
For a unique experience, head to Graffiti Alley, a hidden street art gem in the heart of the city. The American Visionary Art Museum is also a hidden gem, showcasing works by self-taught artists. Another hidden gem is the Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar, which offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, and crafts from local vendors.
Food Scene
Baltimore is known for its seafood, particularly its crabs. Head to Faidley Seafood in Lexington Market for some of the best crab cakes in the city. For a taste of Baltimore’s unique cuisine, try a pit beef sandwich at Chaps Pit Beef. And for a sweet treat, visit Berger Cookies, which are a local favorite.
Budget-Friendly Tips
To save money in Baltimore, take advantage of the city’s many free attractions, such as the Baltimore Museum of Art and Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. You can also explore the city’s parks and trails, such as the Gwynns Falls Trail and Patterson Park. And for affordable eats, head to Lexington Market or the Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar.
Outdoor Adventures
Baltimore offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. You can explore the Chesapeake Bay on a sailing or boating excursion, or hike the trails at Patapsco Valley State Park. For a unique outdoor experience, head to the Maryland Zoo and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the African Penguin exhibit.
Historical Landmarks
Baltimore is rich in history, and there are many landmarks to explore. The USS Constellation is a must-visit for history buffs, as it is the last sail-only warship built by the US Navy. The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum is also a popular stop, as it is the former home of the famous author. And for a taste of Baltimore’s industrial history, visit the B&O Railroad Museum.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Baltimore. The Maryland Science Center offers hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages. The National Aquarium and the Maryland Zoo are also great options for families. And for a unique experience, visit the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, which features oddities and curiosities from around the world.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the American Visionary Art Museum, which showcases works by self-taught artists. The Baltimore Museum of Industry is also a unique stop, offering a glimpse into the city’s industrial past. And for a taste of Baltimore’s literary history, visit the Enoch Pratt Free Library, which was founded in 1882 and is one of the oldest free public library systems in the US.
Natural Wonders
Baltimore offers plenty of natural wonders to explore. You can hike the trails at Patapsco Valley State Park, or explore the wetlands at the Masonville Cove Environmental Education Center. For a unique experience, head to the Cylburn Arboretum, which features over 20 gardens and a historic mansion.
Vibrant Nightlife
Baltimore has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Inner Harbor is a popular spot for nightlife, with bars and restaurants overlooking the water. The Ottobar is a popular live music venue, featuring local and national acts. And for a taste of Baltimore’s craft beer scene, head to Union Craft Brewing or Peabody Heights Brewery.
Local Markets
Baltimore is home to several local markets, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and crafts from local vendors. The Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar is the largest farmers’ market in Maryland, and is open every Sunday from April to December. Lexington Market is another popular stop, offering fresh seafood, meat, and produce.
Beaches and Mountains
While Baltimore itself is not near the beach or mountains, there are several options within a few hours’ drive. Ocean City, Maryland is a popular beach destination, with miles of sandy beaches and a bustling boardwalk. The Appalachian Mountains are also within driving distance, offering hiking and outdoor adventures.
Cultural Immersion
Baltimore is a melting pot of cultures, and there are many opportunities for cultural immersion. The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture offers exhibits and programming that explore the African American experience in Maryland. The Walters Art Museum showcases art and artifacts from around the world. And for a taste of Baltimore’s Jewish history, visit the Jewish Museum of Maryland.
Art and Music Scene
Baltimore has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries and venues to explore. The Creative Alliance at the Patterson is a popular spot for live music and art exhibits. The Maryland Institute College of Art also offers galleries and exhibits from emerging artists. And for a taste of Baltimore’s street art scene, head to Graffiti Alley.
Walking Tours
Baltimore offers plenty of walking tours, which are a great way to explore the city’s history and architecture. The Mount Vernon Cultural Walk features impressive architecture and historic landmarks. The Fell’s Point Ghost Walk is a popular option for those interested in the city’s haunted history. And for a taste of Baltimore’s literary scene, take the Edgar Allan Poe Walking Tour.
Architectural Marvels
Baltimore is home to many impressive architectural marvels. The Maryland State House is the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use, and features impressive architecture and historical significance. The Baltimore Basilica is also an impressive stop, featuring stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
Historical Sites
Baltimore is rich in history, and there are many historical sites to explore. The USS Constellation is a must-visit for history buffs, as it is the last sail-only warship built by the US Navy. The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum is also a popular stop, as it is the former home of the famous author. And for a taste of Baltimore’s industrial history, visit the B&O Railroad Museum.
Biking Routes
Baltimore offers several biking routes, which are a great way to explore the city’s neighborhoods and parks. The Jones Falls Trail is a popular option, offering scenic views of the Jones Falls River and several parks along the way. The Gwynns Falls Trail is another popular option, featuring over 15 miles of trails and parks.
Wellness Retreats
For those interested in wellness and relaxation, Baltimore offers several options. The Baltimore Yoga Village offers yoga classes and workshops for all levels. The Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore offers a luxury spa and wellness center, featuring massages, facials, and other treatments. And for a unique experience, head to the Baltimore Salt Cave, which offers halotherapy sessions in a salt cave.
Adventure Sports
Baltimore offers several options for adventure sports, including kayaking, rock climbing, and zip lining. The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring offers zip lining and aerial adventure courses for all ages. Terrapin Adventures offers rock climbing, zip lining, and ropes courses. And for a unique experience, head to the Charm City Pedal Mill, which offers pedal-powered pub crawls through the city.
With so much to see and do in Baltimore, this travel guide will help you plan the ultimate trip to this vibrant city.