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The Hottest Spots to Visit in Baltimore

By: Swena Kalra

Edited By: Scott Sidders

Updated on November 5, 2023

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Baltimore is the largest independent city in Maryland and the 30th most populous city in the United States. It houses one of the most famous attractions – the National Aquarium, home to thousands of marine life species.

In addition, Baltimore hosts one of the grandest historical sites – the inner Harbor, showcasing historic ships like the USS Constellation Warship, reflecting Baltimore's stunning and deep history. Another unique option is checking out the famous Star-Spangled Banner House, where the very flag was sewn that inspired the Unites States' national anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner.

Our simple guide is perfect for planning your vacation and getting the best out of Maryland's magical city. If you plan a trip to Baltimore, here are some of the city's best attractions to look out for.

Top Must-See Attractions to Visit in Baltimore


Baltimore Inner Harbor

Aerial of Baltimore City with the inner harbor

Take an enriching trip down Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Bathe in the fantastic city views from a ship, lean out and feel the throbbing of the smooth waves hitting the ship's hull with a decisive thud. Maryland's new and old history is gathered together here in the form of famous landmarks.

There is no competition for this attraction due to its world-famous spots in the vicinity, like the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, and the Port Discovery Children's Museum. You'll want to return to this location a few times during your trip or at least aim to spend an entire day here.


Baltimore National Aquarium

Baltimore Inner Harbor facing the National Aquarium

One of the most prominent attractions of Maryland, the Baltimore National Aquarium is home to 20,000 sea creatures and over 700 different species. Behold a glittering cascade of majestic sea animals dancing and dazzling in award-winning sea habitats and feel the radiant power of sea life.


Seated in the heart of the Inner Harbor, the Baltimore National Aquarium is considered one of the best aquariums in the world. It is a must-see for all ages. Meet the world's finest sea animals, including rare species, under one sanctuary. Capture the aura of sharks, the thrilling presence of crocodiles, and the cool vibes of the Australian bearded dragons.


Explore a reef, play with the dolphins, get up close and personal with some sea animals, and go diving. You can even have a unique aquarium sleepover with the whole family.

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Baltimore Little Italy

Little Italy, Baltimore

One of the busiest streets of Baltimore, Little Italy, is well worth a visit. People love to stroll around here, go sightseeing, and find the next meal for the day. It lies between the Inner Harbor and the historic Fells Point location. The neighborhood is lined with family-owned restaurants serving homemade delicacies and excellent food. Little Italy is also where lights, laughter, and festivals are the norm. Indulge in different tournaments, bocce ball games, outdoor movies, and pasta get-togethers; the neighborhood is always in good spirits.


Mount Vernon Baltimore

Mount Vernon Historic District in Baltimore

It's one of the most famous and populated neighborhoods in the city of Baltimore, hosting cultural and historical institutions like the Walters Art Museum and the ornate Peabody Library. You can also gaze upon the looming and historical Washington Monument in Mount Vernon Place. Enjoy local and international cuisine with sumptuous menus, then enjoy the nightlife atmosphere with live music. The site is fantastic for walking along the squares with plenty of places to sit and take in the scenery.

Selfie Museum

Located in Fell's Point, this Selfie Museum is definitely a place to stop by. Featuring 50 different backdrops and scenes, the Selfie Museum gives a unique cool to your shots. You can roam around the incredible exhibits and gather together some of the finest memories to take along with you. There are over 8 selfie rooms with more than 20 photo exhibits to add life and color to your photos. The different Selfie Rooms take you down into fantasy worlds and imaginary scenes. So have fun with your family and friends, and take your treasure trove of memories home.

Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum

Edgar Allan Poe home in Baltimore

This epic location takes you on a journey through time, depicting the daily life of this historical writer, Edgar Allan Poe, and his place of residence. This house was built in 1930, and the 5-room house was the residence of the famous writer for two years. The precious writings he penned in this very house have been preserved here. This renowned writer's grave lies nearby in the Westminster Hall burial ground.

Patterson Park

Baltimore Patterson Park pagoda

Spread over 130 acres in Southeast Baltimore, Patterson Park has many entertaining activities for tourists and locals. You can easily spend the day here with tennis courts inside, sports fields, and plenty of space if you want to run, walk or cycle. Overlooking the park stands The Observatory, the iconic tower completed in 1892. You can behold the whole downtown and the Patapsco River from the top of the tower. It is a thrilling viewpoint to see the cityscape in a single glance.


There is also an indoor skating rink, a hotspot in winter, and perfect for bringing youngsters. For summers, the park offers a superb swimming pool and splash pad. There are also baseball and softball fields where tournaments and matches are organized. The park is also famed for holding concerts and special seasonal events. It is an extremely well-maintained and well-built park for people of all ages.

Top Day Tours and Trips from Baltimore


Luxury DC city tour with Potomac River Cruise

View of the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument and the US Capitol from the Potomac River.

This is a 6-hour group tour of the capital city and includes a tour by bus, on foot, and a cruise in the Potomac River. Visit the Lincoln Memorial and other historical and famous spots. This tour also covers the sightseeing of the White House and the US Capitol Building. Although the President's House is not available for public tourism, you can still see a few rooms in the main residence from the outside.

After a constructive tour of the capital city, the tour will continue towards the Washington Harbor and then a river cruise along the Potomac River. For this tour, you do need to get arrange to be in Washington DC prior to pickup (approx. 1 hour and 20-minute drive).

Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Baltimore Maryland Skyline

Participate in a 3-hour tour of Baltimore and combine fun and adventure with sightseeing and discovery. This scavenger game includes racing along with the riddles with your group members, solving them on the way, and looking for new signs to progress along your learning journey.

Learn the cultural and historical importance of Baltimore's Inner Harbor and stop by historic sailing ships, landmarks, museums, and other great spots. You play this game on an app on your phone. Then, you and your fellow group members can decide your tour pace and hunt down the clues accordingly.

Philadelphia from Baltimore

Philadelphia’s skyline

In Pennsylvania, about an hour and 47 minutes from Baltimore, lies Philadelphia, also known as the City of Brotherly Love. Home to where the American founding fathers saw the vision of liberty, get set and be ready to tour the Independence National Historical Park and Liberty Bell. The historic Elfreth's Alley is also one of the historical and majestic spots. The street dates back to 1703 and has a museum down the block called the Elfreth's Alley Museum.

You can also view the famous Love sculpture during your tour and visit the countless art galleries in this city—the magnificent art display for all art lovers to feast their eyes on. The city is also famous for its cheesesteaks, so you can quickly head to any nearby restaurants and experience that classic taste.

Gunpowder Falls State Park

Scenic view of Gunpowder Falls State Park, Maryland

Just 30 minutes from Baltimore is the magnificent Gun Powder Falls State Park, one of the largest state parks in Maryland. Nature lovers, especially waterfalls lovers, will fall in love with its haunting beauty. There are four picnic pavilions, and the park is divided into six sections. Spanning over 1800 acres of land, the park holds a swimming beach, playground, rental sailboats, water trails, and hiking trails.


A fantastic array of recreational activities awaits you in this park. Boost your adrenaline with adventurous horseback riding, massage your knees by speed cycling and ride through the surfs through windsurfing. Unlock excitement levels by kayaking and sailing, and let down your worries with wind sailing. If you are touring the city in winter, get ready for acres of snow and some real cross-country skiing fun.

Annapolis

View of boats in the harbor in Annapolis, Maryland

38 minutes from Baltimore, in the state of Maryland, lies Annapolis, which holds a level of grandiosity and glamour that sets it apart, making it a must-visit if you are in Baltimore. Home to the US Naval Academy, Annapolis sits around the water and is a perfect destination for water lovers. There are rentals available for kayaking and boating. When you're done working up an appetite, there are waterfront restaurants where you'll find delicious seafood served.


If you plan to tour in May, look out for the Navy's Blue Angel jets flying above Annapolis during the Commissioning Week. This way, you will be able to participate in their rehearsal with a smaller crowd and a fantastic show. Otherwise, Annapolis does have a scavenger hunt tour that'll get you to the hotspots while having fun with your family and friends.

Michaux State Forest

Autumn reflections in Long Pine Run Reservoir, in Michaux State Forest, Pennsylvania

Residing in Pennsylvania, the Michaux State Forest is 70 miles away from Baltimore (approx. 1 hour and 40-minute drive). Let the stunning views uplift your mood and feel positive and powerful vibes. Since the forest has great activities to keep you tuned and fully active, you will need a full day to enjoy the Michaux State Forest. You can enjoy boating, mountain biking, cycling, camping, and horseback riding.


If you are visiting in the winter, you also have great activities to enjoy in the snow. Enjoy ice-skating, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling in the winter. The forest has some of the most stunning views above the mountain tops. You will fall in love with this place if you love the outdoors.

Best Places to Eat in Baltimore

Hot steamed flower crab

Walking Ethnic Foodie Tour – Mount Vernon


It is not just a food tour but a complete package. First, visit historical buildings in the Mount Vernon neighborhood and get ready to be stunned by the extravagant homes along the line. Then, savor delicious bites at all the top food spots. Enjoy a variety of food and catch a taste of different cuisines wrapped up into one complete experience. The servers are all amiable and sure to make your food trip one of the best you have ever had.

Phillips Seafood Baltimore


Giving you an unforgettable experience, this restaurant has one of the most exotic cuisines that you have ever tasted. Banquet facilities are available, and the staff is warmly welcoming. Get ready to be overwhelmed by the fine display and a unique outdoor crab deck. The interior is also extremely luxurious and gives you a VIP feeling. All the recipes are prepared with fresh ingredients and delicious sauces. Savor the best of Baltimore in this fantastic seafood restaurant.


601 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
(410) 685-6600

Fell's Point


Fell's Point is one of the best-preserved historic districts in Baltimore and is well famed for its rich cuisine, cultural heritage, and friendly atmosphere. It is one of the best places to visit in Maryland. With live music, pubs, and taverns, the place is always excitedly buzzing with happy laughter and lively conversation. You can find world-class seafood here on this street. The street has many seafood restaurants, offering quality rich food with the best décor and atmosphere.

Special treats like the Polish, the Spanish tapas, Baltimore's rich pit beef, Chesapeake Bay crab, and oysters are the main highlights of Fell's Point. There's even a Fell's Point Food Tour that offers a unique experience.

The Capital Grille


If you are a steak lover, there is no better restaurant than The Captial Grille. Their steaks are heavenly and are well prepared and expertly dry-aged in-house for 18-24 days, then hand-cut and served with passion and care. With a welcoming and cordial staff and par excellence décor, the restaurant is booming with customers at all times. The restaurant provides an outdoor patio for people who love outdoor dining. You can request private seating if you are hosting a private party or a celebration.


500 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
(443) 703-4064

Matthew's Pizzeria


Are you searching for good pizza? You'll have a blast here. They serve mouthwatering and finger-licking pizza for the whole family. The ambiance is warm and friendly. Served in Italian style, the pizza crust is deliciously soft, and the cheese just melts in your mouth. With delicious flavors, you always wonder what to order and what to leave out. Meals are available at lunch and dinner time. They are also vegetarian friendly, so you will have a good time here if anyone in your party wants vegetarian. Their pasta salad and their Margarita pizza are a must-try.


3131 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
(410) 276-8755

La Scala


La Scala has an excellent atmosphere and sumptuous menu, delivering Italian, Sicilian, Tuscan, and Southern Italian cuisines. The staff is vibrant, friendly, and responsive, with rapid service time. They treat you like royalty, and you can feel their earnest sincerity when handling your orders. The food is par excellence, and the ambiance is soft and soothing. The appetizers are made from their own special recipe. The desserts are spectacular, too, if you're getting a sweet tooth.


1012 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202-4326, USA
(410) 783-9209

Conclusion

Baltimore skyline and Inner Harbor at Nightfall

Baltimore is a city where wonders and miracles happen every day. It is a city rich in cultural heritage and friendly acquaintances. If you visit Baltimore, spend your time wisely and enjoy every moment. After all, it's a city where you get to do everything. From history to the outdoors, Baltimore has so many fantastic activities. We hope you have an excellent trip and wish you all the best!

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