25 Best Things to Do in Baltimore: Ultimate 2025 Guide
Baltimore is a city that surprised me at every turn – from its rich maritime history to its vibrant arts scene and mouth-watering seafood. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this guide will help you navigate the “Charm City” like a local. I’ve personally tested these attractions to bring you honest recommendations that won’t disappoint!
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Inner Harbor: The Heart of Baltimore
The Inner Harbor is where I always start my Baltimore adventures. This bustling waterfront area serves as the city’s centerpiece and offers something for everyone.
Scenic Cruises at Inner Harbor
45-Minute Tour Sunset Options Available
There’s something magical about seeing Baltimore from the water! A scenic cruise around the Inner Harbor gives you a unique perspective of the city skyline and historic ships. Last summer, I took the sunset cruise and was absolutely blown away by the golden light reflecting off the glass buildings – perfect for photography enthusiasts like me!
Why You’ll Love This Experience:
- Unparalleled views of Baltimore’s skyline
- Knowledgeable guides sharing city history
- Perfect photo opportunities
- Easy connections to water taxis for continued exploration
Price Range: $18-25 per adult, $12-15 per child
🌟 My Experience: I recommend combining your cruise with a water taxi ride to nearby landmarks like Fell’s Point or Fort McHenry for a comprehensive harbor experience. I spent a full day exploring this way and it was the perfect introduction to the city’s layout!
Chessie Dragon Paddleboat or Pirate Ship
For a whimsical adventure on the water, hop aboard the Chessie Dragon paddleboat or the electric Pirate Ship! These fun vessels are a hit with families and offer a unique way to explore the harbor.
💡 Pro Tip: Book ahead during peak summer months to secure your spot – these popular attractions fill up quickly! I learned this the hard way when I spontaneously tried to rent one on a Saturday in July and they were fully booked.
🚤 RESERVE YOUR PADDLEBOAT ADVENTURE (INCLUDES DISCOUNT CODE!)
National Aquarium
World-Class Exhibits 20,000+ Animals
The National Aquarium is hands-down one of the world’s best aquariums and a must-visit in Baltimore. I was absolutely mesmerized by Shark Alley, where you can walk through an underwater tube surrounded by these majestic creatures. The rainforest exhibit made me feel like I was transported to another world entirely!
Highlight Exhibits:
- Blacktip Reef (coral ecosystem with 500+ fish)
- Shark Alley (underwater viewing experience)
- Dolphin Discovery (multiple viewing levels)
- Australia: Wild Extremes (award-winning exhibit)
Price Range: $39.95 adults, $29.95 children (save with online booking)
How to Save on Inner Harbor Attractions:
- Purchase the Baltimore Harbor Pass for entry to multiple attractions at a discount
- Visit the Maryland Science Center and National Aquarium on weekday afternoons for smaller crowds
- Check Groupon for last-minute deals on harbor cruises and tours
- Many attractions offer discounted tickets after 3pm for late-day entry
Maryland Science Center
As a science enthusiast, I could spend hours at the Maryland Science Center! With interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and a rooftop observatory, it’s a perfect spot for curious minds of all ages.
⚠️ Warning: The Science Center is closed on Mondays during the school year. I made this mistake on my first visit and had to rearrange my itinerary!
🔭 BOOK SCIENCE CENTER TICKETS (INCLUDES IMAX)
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Spanning an impressive 80,000 square feet across three floors, Port Discovery Children’s Museum is a haven for kids. The SkyClimber, a three-story climbing structure, is always a big hit!
💡 Bonus Tip: If you’re visiting in September, don’t miss the annual Kinetic Sculpture Race hosted by the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) near Inner Harbor. Watching human-powered art race through the city is truly a one-of-a-kind experience! I participated last year with a dragon-shaped creation and it was unforgettable.
Dive into History
As a history buff, I’m constantly amazed by Baltimore’s rich historical tapestry. Here are some sites that will transport you back in time:
Fort McHenry National Monument
National Historic Site War of 1812
Did you know “The Star-Spangled Banner” was written here? Francis Scott Key penned our national anthem while watching Fort McHenry withstand bombardment during the War of 1812. When I visited during the flag-changing ceremony, I got goosebumps thinking about the history that unfolded on these grounds. Today, it doubles as a beautiful public park with stunning harbor views.
Don’t Miss:
- Daily flag changes with ranger talks
- The excellent orientation film “The Defense of Fort McHenry”
- Original barracks and powder magazines
- Ranger-led tours explaining the fort’s significance
Price Range: $15 per adult, children under 15 free
🌟 My Experience: Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic as the sun sets over the harbor – it’s one of my favorite peaceful spots in the city. I’ve spent countless evenings here watching boats sail by while enjoying Maryland crab dip and local craft beer.
Edgar Allan Poe’s Baltimore
Following Poe’s trail through Baltimore is a uniquely macabre experience! Visit his home (now a museum), his grave at Westminster Hall, and stop for a drink at his favorite pub, The Horse You Came In On Saloon.
🖋️ JOIN AN EDGAR ALLAN POE WALKING TOUR
Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum
This fascinating museum celebrates African American contributions to shipbuilding and Baltimore’s maritime industry. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and provide important historical context.
National Great Blacks In Wax Museum
With 150 life-sized wax figures and a powerful slave ship replica, this museum offers an unforgettable journey through African American history. It’s emotional, educational, and essential.
Reginald F. Lewis Museum
I spent hours exploring the exhibits at this museum highlighting Black Marylanders’ history and culture. The personal stories shared here are incredibly moving and informative.
B&O Railroad Museum
Birthplace of American Railroading 250+ Locomotives & Cars
As the birthplace of American railroading, this museum showcases historic trains and tells the story of how rail transport shaped our nation. The massive roundhouse architecture alone is worth the visit! I was fascinated by the meticulously restored locomotives – each one tells a unique story about America’s industrial development.
Museum Highlights:
- 1851 Mt. Clare Station (oldest railroad station in America)
- The magnificent roundhouse with its 22-sided roof
- Mile One exhibit (first commercial railroad track in America)
- Train rides available April through December
Price Range: $20 adults, $12 children (train rides extra)
💡 Pro Tip: Check their calendar for “Day Out With Thomas” events if you’re traveling with young children. My nephew absolutely loved his experience seeing a life-sized Thomas the Tank Engine!
Art and Culture
Baltimore’s vibrant art scene continues to impress me with each visit. Here are some cultural gems you shouldn’t miss:
Walters Art Museum
Housing collections that span over 7 millennia, the Walters Art Museum is a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance paintings and intricate Fabergé eggs, there’s something to captivate everyone.
How to Save on Museum Visits:
- The Walters Art Museum offers free general admission every day
- Baltimore Museum of Art is free for everyone
- Visit the American Visionary Art Museum on “Free Community Day” (check website for dates)
- Many museums offer discounted evening hours once weekly
Baltimore Museum of Art
Free Admission World’s Largest Matisse Collection
Home to the largest public collection of Henri Matisse’s works in the world, the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) is a cultural powerhouse. I spent an entire afternoon wandering through their impressive contemporary collection and was especially captivated by the Cone Collection with its masterpieces by Picasso, Cézanne, and Gauguin. The sculpture garden is particularly beautiful on sunny days.
Museum Highlights:
- Matisse Center with more than 1,200 works
- Cone Collection of modern masterpieces
- Sculpture Gardens with 33 installations
- Contemporary Art Wing
Price Range: Free general admission!
Artscape Festival
Timing your visit to coincide with Artscape, America’s largest free arts festival, is a treat! Held annually in August, this vibrant event showcases Baltimore’s creative spirit through visual art, performances, and food.
Outdoor Adventures
When the weather is nice, Baltimore offers plenty of green spaces and outdoor activities:
Patterson Park Observatory
I still remember climbing this historic 1890s 4-story tower and being amazed by the panoramic city views! Built in the 1890s, the observatory has become one of my favorite photo spots in Baltimore.
🌟 My Experience: Visit at sunset for absolutely stunning photography opportunities. The golden light washing over the city creates a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for Instagram-worthy shots!
Maryland Zoo
135+ Acre Wildlife Park African Penguin Colony
With over 500 animals, including the largest colony of endangered African penguins in North America, the Maryland Zoo is a delightful day out for animal lovers of all ages. I was particularly impressed by their conservation efforts and the knowledgeable keepers who are always eager to share information about the animals in their care.
Don’t Miss:
- African Journey (elephants, lions, and giraffes)
- Penguin Coast (award-winning exhibit)
- Polar Bear Watch
- Interactive feeding experiences (additional fee)
Price Range: $24 adults, $19 children (save 15% online)
Graffiti Alley
Located behind Motor House, this vibrant spot showcases some of Baltimore’s best street art. It’s an ever-changing outdoor gallery that reflects the city’s creative energy.
Hampden Neighborhood
One of my favorite areas to explore on foot is Hampden’s 36th Street (affectionately known as “The Avenue”). This quirky neighborhood is home to unique shops, local eateries, and colorful row houses.
💡 Pro Tip: Try to catch local events like First Fridays, HONfest, or Hampdenfest for an authentic Baltimore experience! I attended HONfest (celebration of the classic Baltimore “hon” culture) last year and was amazed by the beehive hairdos and cat-eye glasses everywhere!
🍽️ BOOK A HAMPDEN FOOD TOUR & TASTE LOCAL FAVORITES
Sports Enthusiast’s Paradise
Baltimore’s passionate sports culture is infectious, even if you’re not typically a sports fan:
Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Legendary Ballpark Historic Warehouse
Catching a Baltimore Orioles baseball game at Camden Yards is a quintessential Baltimore experience! Often called one of America’s most beautiful ballparks, its brick warehouse backdrop creates a nostalgic atmosphere that revolutionized baseball stadium design. I’ll never forget my first game here, eating Boog’s BBQ while watching the Orioles take on the Yankees!
Visitor Highlights:
- Eutaw Street promenade with Boog’s BBQ
- Orioles Hall of Fame statues in the outfield
- Historic B&O Warehouse backdrop
- Excellent sightlines from any seat
Price Range: Tickets from $15-85 depending on section
🌟 My Experience: Even in the off-season, don’t miss taking a stadium tour! Our guide shared fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about the park’s construction and showed us areas typically off-limits to fans, including the press box and dugout.
M&T Bank Stadium
The electric atmosphere at an Baltimore Ravens football game is something to behold! The crowd’s energy is contagious, even if you’re not familiar with all the rules.
💡 Pro Tip: Check the game schedules online in advance to plan your visit around a home game. If you’re visiting during football season, be sure to wear purple on game days to fit right in with the locals!
🏈 BOOK RAVENS TICKETS (EARLY ACCESS DEALS)
Savor Local Flavors
My Baltimore visits always revolve around food to some extent – the city’s culinary scene is not to be missed:
Maryland Crabs Experience
Iconic Baltimore Food Old Bay Seasoning
You simply cannot visit Baltimore without trying the famous steamed blue crabs or crab cakes! My favorite spots include Faidley’s Seafood in Lexington Market for their jumbo lump crab cakes (no fillers!) and L.P. Steamers in Locust Point for a traditional crab feast with mallets and brown paper-covered tables. The sweet meat dusted with Old Bay seasoning is an unforgettable taste of Maryland.
Where to Try Maryland Crabs:
- Faidley’s Seafood (award-winning crab cakes)
- L.P. Steamers (authentic steamed crabs)
- Jimmy’s Famous Seafood (upscale crab house)
- Nick’s Fish House (waterfront dining)
Price Range: $25-45 per person for crab feast
💡 Pro Tip: Ask staff for tips on how to crack crabs properly – it’s an art form that locals have perfected! During my first crab feast, a friendly server showed me how to flip the crab over, remove the “apron,” and access the sweet meat most efficiently. This saved me from struggling and made the experience much more enjoyable!
Mixology Classes
For something a bit different, I took a cocktail-making class at Rye and had a blast! Several Baltimore establishments offer these sessions where you can learn the art of mixology while sipping your creations.
🍸 BOOK A MIXOLOGY CLASS (PERFECT DATE NIGHT!)
Unique Experiences
Some experiences defy categorization but are absolutely worth including in your Baltimore itinerary:
Pirate Cruises in Fell’s Point
Interactive Experience Family & Adult Options
Joining Urban Pirates for a swashbuckling adventure on the water was one of my most entertaining Baltimore experiences! I donned a pirate bandana, learned pirate lingo, and sailed the harbor while participating in water cannon battles with other vessels. Both adults and children can embrace their inner pirate on these themed cruises.
Adventure Highlights:
- Face painting and costume accessories provided
- Interactive pirate games and story-telling
- Water cannon battles with other boats
- Treasure hunting and pirate oaths
Price Range: $20-25 per person, discounts for children
🌟 My Experience: The daytime family adventures are perfect for kids, while adults might prefer the BYOG (Bring Your Own Grog) evening cruises. I went on both – the family version with my niece and nephew who couldn’t stop talking about it for weeks, and the adult cruise with friends which turned into an incredibly fun night!
Horseshoe Casino
If you’re feeling lucky, try your hand at Horseshoe Casino Baltimore. Beyond gaming, they offer live entertainment and several dining options.
John Waters’ Baltimore
Follow in the footsteps of iconic filmmaker John Waters by touring his favorite Baltimore haunts. From Hampden (the setting for “Hairspray”) to the quirky attractions that inspired his unique cinematic vision, this self-guided tour offers a different perspective on the city.
💡 Pro Tip: Watch some of Waters’ classics before your trip for context – they’re a perfect introduction to Baltimore’s quirky charm! “Hairspray” and “Cry-Baby” are great places to start for a taste of Waters’ Baltimore-centric filmography.
🎬 JOHN WATERS-INSPIRED BALTIMORE TOUR
Sample Itineraries
Planning your Baltimore adventure? Here are some ready-made itineraries to help you maximize your time:
| Time Frame | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| One Day | Inner Harbor Cruise & National Aquarium | Lunch & Fort McHenry | Dinner in Fell’s Point & Pirate Cruise |
| Weekend Day 1 | Walters Art Museum | Lunch in Mount Vernon | Hampden Neighborhood Exploration |
| Weekend Day 2 | Camden Yards (game or tour) | Maryland Crabs at Lexington Market | Horseshoe Casino |
| Weekend Day 3 | B&O Railroad Museum | Fort McHenry | Waterfront Dinner |
🏨 BOOK YOUR COMPLETE BALTIMORE WEEKEND PACKAGE
Where to Stay in Baltimore
Finding the perfect accommodation can make or break your Baltimore experience. Here are my top recommendations:
Luxury Options
Top Luxury Hotels:
- Four Seasons Baltimore: Waterfront elegance with stunning harbor views and a spectacular spa
- Sagamore Pendry Baltimore: Historic renovation in Fell’s Point with a gorgeous pool and incredible design
- The Ivy Hotel: Boutique luxury in a historic mansion with personalized service
Price Range: $350-600 per night
Mid-Range Options
Best Mid-Range Hotels:
- Hotel Indigo Baltimore: Boutique hotel in the heart of Mount Vernon with literary theme
- Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor: Perfect location for sightseeing with rooftop pool
- Admiral Fell Inn: Historic charm in the heart of Fell’s Point
Price Range: $150-250 per night
Budget-Friendly Options
Affordable Stays:
- HI Baltimore Hostel: Friendly atmosphere in a historic building with private and shared options
- Hotel RL Baltimore: Trendy spot with affordable rates near the Inner Harbor
- Delta Hotels Baltimore Inner Harbor: Comfortable rooms at reasonable prices
Price Range: $60-150 per night
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Getting Around Baltimore
Baltimore is relatively easy to navigate, especially in the central areas:
Transportation Tips:
- Purchase a day pass for the Water Taxi if you plan to make multiple stops ($15)
- The Charm City Circulator is completely free and connects major tourist areas
- Light Rail is the most affordable way to travel to/from the airport ($1.90 one-way)
- Downtown Baltimore is surprisingly walkable – many attractions are within 15-20 minutes on foot
- Consider car rentals only if venturing outside the city center to avoid parking hassles
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Best Time to Visit Baltimore
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Special Events | Hotel Rates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr-May) | 60-75°F, occasional rain | Moderate | Flower Mart, Kinetic Sculpture Race | Moderate |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 80-95°F, humid | High | Artscape, HONfest, Baseball season | High |
| Fall (Sep-Oct) | 65-80°F, pleasant | Low | Baltimore Book Festival, Football season | Moderate |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | 30-50°F, occasional snow | Very Low | Harbor Christmas Light Display | Low (except holidays) |
🌟 My Experience: Fall (September-October) is my personal favorite time to visit Baltimore. The summer humidity breaks, the foliage begins to change, and there are fewer tourists. Plus, you can catch both baseball and football games if you time your visit right!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything worth seeing in Baltimore?
Absolutely! From world-class museums like the Walters Art Museum to vibrant neighborhoods like Fell’s Point, Baltimore is packed with must-see attractions. The city seamlessly blends historical sites, cultural institutions, delicious food scenes, and unique experiences that appeal to various interests.
How do you spend a day in Baltimore?
For a perfect day in Baltimore, I recommend starting at the Inner Harbor, exploring historical sites like Fort McHenry, and ending with dinner in Fell’s Point. Check my one-day itinerary above for a detailed plan that maximizes your time without feeling rushed.
Is Baltimore good for tourists?
Baltimore is excellent for tourists! Its blend of history, culture, sports, and food appeals to visitors of all ages and interests. The compact downtown area makes it easy to see multiple attractions in one day, and the friendly locals add to the charm.
What is Baltimore famous for?
Baltimore is famous for several things: Maryland blue crabs and crab cakes, Edgar Allan Poe’s legacy, Fort McHenry (birthplace of “The Star-Spangled Banner”), and its passionate sports culture. The city’s rich maritime history and distinctive neighborhoods each with their own character also contribute to its fame.
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Ready for an Unforgettable Baltimore Adventure?
Baltimore truly is a city of hidden treasures and iconic landmarks that offers something for every traveler. From steamed crabs to historic ships, world-class museums to quirky neighborhoods, your perfect Baltimore experience awaits!
💡 Suggested Meta Description: Discover the 25 best things to do in Baltimore in 2025 with our local expert guide. From Inner Harbor attractions to historic sites, crab feasts to hidden gems, plan your perfect Baltimore visit!
