Perfect Weekend in Baltimore: 48-Hour Itinerary & Top Things to Do This Weekend
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✈️ FIND THE BEST BALTIMORE HOTEL DEALS FOR YOUR WEEKEND GETAWAY!
Why This Weekend is Perfect for Baltimore
Baltimore, a city brimming with history, culture, and waterfront charm, is the ideal destination for a memorable weekend getaway. From its cobblestone streets to its bustling Inner Harbor, the city offers a delightful mix of attractions that’ll keep you engaged all weekend long.
The weekend of March 14-16, 2025, is especially exciting, with the 63rd Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade lighting up the streets on Sunday! One thing I’ve learned from my travels is that experiencing a city during a festival gives you a special glimpse into its heart and soul.
🌟 My Experience: As I wandered through Baltimore last year during St. Patrick’s Day weekend, I was struck by how the city’s vibrant community shines during this festive time. The streets were filled with music, laughter, and so much green! I made friends with locals who shared their favorite viewing spots for the parade, which led me to discover some amazing pubs I never would have found otherwise.
Whether you’re a foodie seeking the best crab cakes (trust me, I’ve tried them ALL), a history buff eager to explore charming neighborhoods, or an event enthusiast looking for unique experiences, this 48-hour itinerary has everything you need for things to do in Baltimore this weekend.
Friday Evening: Arrival and First Impressions
Kick off your weekend in Baltimore with a smooth arrival and a taste of the city’s vibrant evening scene. After checking into your hotel, you’ll be ready to dive into the Charm City experience!
Check-in and Accommodation
Settle into a hotel near Inner Harbor for convenience and easy access to top attractions. Here are your best options:
Best Hotels in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
Central Location Easy Access to Attractions
After checking out dozens of Baltimore accommodations, I’ve narrowed down the absolute best options based on location, comfort, and value. The perfect hotel can make or break your weekend experience!
Top Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore — Indulge in upscale amenities and stunning harbor views with floor-to-ceiling windows. Their spa is absolute heaven! Last time I stayed here, I could see the entire harbor from my room.
- Mid-range: Hampton Inn Inner Harbor — Comfortable rooms in a central location with free breakfast. I stayed here last spring and loved being able to walk everywhere!
- Budget: Days Inn Baltimore North — Affordable with quick access to downtown via light rail. Perfect if you’re watching your wallet but still want convenience.
- Boutique: Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown — Stylish rooms in a historic building with local art and charm.
Price Range: $89-$350 per night
Dinner Recommendations
After checking in, head out for a delicious dinner. Baltimore’s food scene is seriously underrated! Make reservations ahead of time, as these spots are popular:
💡 Pro Tip: I always make dinner reservations before arriving in Baltimore, especially for Friday nights and holiday weekends. Last March, I almost missed out on trying Thames Street Oyster House because they were completely booked. Thankfully, the hostess took pity on me and squeezed me in at the bar, where I had the best lobster roll of my life while chatting with a local fisherman who gave me insider tips about the city!
- Thames Street Oyster House (Fell’s Point) — A local favorite for crab cakes and fresh seafood. Their lobster roll is also to die for!
- Café Gia (Little Italy) — Cozy Italian eatery with authentic pasta and desserts. The homemade cannoli will transport you straight to Sicily!
- Blue Moon Cafe (Fell’s Point) — Perfect for vegetarians, with hearty comfort food. Their Captain Crunch French Toast is Instagram-famous for good reason.
Evening Activity
Start your weekend with some entertainment:
Friday Night Events in Baltimore This Weekend
Live Entertainment Unique Experiences
Kick off your Baltimore weekend with unforgettable entertainment! I’ve scouted the best events happening this Friday night so you don’t have to waste time searching.
Top Friday Evening Events:
- Sebastian Maniscalco’s Comedy Show — Catch the laughs at CFG Bank Arena at 7:30 PM. His observational comedy about everyday life will have you in stitches!
- Cabaret of Mysteries: Shamrock Soirée — Enjoy a themed performance at The Lord Baltimore at 8:00 PM. This intimate show combines magic, burlesque, and comedy for a truly unique night out!
- Live Jazz at Keystone Korner — Experience world-class jazz in an intimate setting with cocktails and small plates.
- Fell’s Point Pub Crawl — Explore historic taverns with local beer and maritime history insights.
⚠️ Warning: These popular events often sell out, especially on holiday weekends! Book your tickets as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Saturday: Exploring Baltimore’s Attractions
Saturday is your chance to dive into Baltimore’s rich offerings, from world-class attractions to cultural gems. This is when you’ll really get to experience the best things to do in Baltimore this weekend!
Morning: Visit Top Attractions
Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel or pop into Miss Shirley’s Cafe for some Southern comfort food that’ll fuel your adventures.
Then head to the National Aquarium, ranked among the best in the U.S. with its dazzling exhibits of dolphins, sharks, and tropical fish. The blacktip reef exhibit is absolutely mesmerizing!
🐠 SKIP THE LINES AT THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM – BOOK TICKETS NOW!
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive at the National Aquarium before 10am to beat the crowds, especially on weekends! When I visited last year, I got there right at opening and had nearly unobstructed views of the amazing blacktip reef. By noon, it was packed with visitors and much harder to enjoy the exhibits up close.
Afterward, stroll around Inner Harbor. Take in the waterfront views or hop on a water taxi to Fell’s Point for lunch. The water taxi is not just transportation—it’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective!
Baltimore Harbor Water Taxi
Harbor Views Convenient Transportation
The water taxi isn’t just transportation—it’s one of my favorite Baltimore experiences! Gliding across the harbor gives you breathtaking views of the skyline you simply can’t get any other way. Plus, it’s the most scenic route between major attractions.
Water Taxi Highlights:
- All-day unlimited rides with a day pass
- Stops at all major waterfront attractions
- Perfect photo opportunities of the skyline
- Convenient connections between Inner Harbor, Fell’s Point, and Canton
Price: $17 for an all-day adult pass
Afternoon: Cultural Experiences
Spend your afternoon soaking up Baltimore’s culture:
- The Walters Art Museum — Free admission and a diverse collection from ancient artifacts to Impressionist paintings. The medieval armor collection is particularly impressive, and their Impressionist gallery is truly a hidden gem for art lovers.
- Walking Tour of Fell’s Point or Federal Hill — Explore historic charm on foot. The cobblestone streets and colonial architecture make for amazing photos!
Here’s a quick guide for a self-guided walking tour of Fell’s Point:
- Start at Broadway Square and take in the waterfront views
- Wander past historic homes and boutique shops on Thames Street
- Check out The Horse You Came In On Saloon, allegedly the last place Edgar Allan Poe had a drink
- End with lunch at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood for what many locals consider the best crab cakes in town
How to Save Money on Baltimore Activities:
- Visit free attractions like The Walters Art Museum and Federal Hill Park
- Use the free Charm City Circulator bus to get around downtown
- Look for combo tickets for multiple attractions (usually saves 15-20%)
- Check Groupon for last-minute deals on tours and experiences
- Visit during happy hour for discounted food and drinks (4-7pm at most places)
Fell’s Point Food & History Tour
Local Cuisine Historic Sites
If you prefer a guided experience (which I often do to learn more about the history), this highly-rated food tour combines Baltimore’s culinary delights with fascinating historical insights. I took this tour last year and learned so much about the neighborhood’s maritime history while sampling incredible local specialties!
Tour Highlights:
- Sample Maryland’s famous crab cakes and other local specialties
- Learn about Fell’s Point’s fascinating 300-year history
- Discover hidden courtyards and historic maritime sites
- Small group size ensures personal attention
Price: $79 per person
Evening: Cultural Entertainment
Cap off Saturday with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at Meyerhoff Symphony Hall (8:00 PM). This sophisticated performance is a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. When I attended last year, their rendition of Gershwin absolutely blew me away!
🌟 My Experience: Last March, I splurged on orchestra-level seats at the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and it was worth every penny! The acoustics at Meyerhoff Symphony Hall are incredible, and the orchestra’s performance of Rhapsody in Blue had me on the edge of my seat. Before the show, I enjoyed a glass of wine at their elegant lobby bar, which was perfect for people-watching and added to the special night out feeling.
Saturday Night Entertainment Options
Live Music Cultural Experience
Baltimore offers world-class entertainment options for your Saturday evening. Whether you prefer classical music, indie bands, or theater performances, there’s something to match your taste.
Saturday Evening Options:
- Baltimore Symphony Orchestra — Elegant classical performances in a stunning venue
- The Ottobar — Live indie and alternative music in a laid-back setting
- The Hippo Room Comedy Club — Local and touring comedians in an intimate venue
- Chesapeake Shakespeare Company — Classic and contemporary theater productions
Price Range: $25-$120 per person
Sunday: St. Patrick’s Day Festivities
Sunday brings the highlight of the weekend: St. Patrick’s Day celebrations that showcase Baltimore’s festive spirit. This is what makes this particular weekend in Baltimore extra special!
Morning: Active Start or Leisurely Beginnings
Choose your own adventure to start the day:
- Option 1: Altra Kelly Benefits St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock 5K — Join the fun at Power Plant Live! at 1:00 PM. The energy at this race is contagious, with everyone decked out in green!
Tip: Arrive early for parking and to dodge traffic. I’d suggest getting there by noon.
- Option 2: Leisurely Breakfast — If running isn’t your thing (I get it!), relax at one of these spots instead:
- Miss Shirley’s Cafe — Southern comfort food like shrimp and grits. Their coconut cream-stuffed French toast is heavenly!
- Blue Moon Cafe — Vegetarian-friendly dishes to start your day. The Sweet Baby Jesus (a pancake, bacon, eggs, and hash brown combo) is worth the potential wait.
🌟 My Experience: Last year, I decided to be brave and signed up for the Shamrock 5K despite not being a runner. The atmosphere was so encouraging that I ended up having a blast! Everyone was dressed in ridiculous green outfits, and the post-race party at Power Plant Live! was the perfect way to kick off the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. I met a group of locals who invited me to join them for the parade viewing afterward, which made the day even more special!
Shamrock 5K Run
Fun Run Festival Experience
The Shamrock 5K is more than just a race—it’s a festive celebration that perfectly kicks off your St. Patrick’s Day! Runners of all levels join in, many wearing creative green costumes that add to the fun atmosphere.
Race Highlights:
- Scenic course through downtown Baltimore
- Festive atmosphere with participants in green attire
- Commemorative t-shirt and finisher medal
- Post-race celebration with live music and drinks
⚠️ Warning: Registration often closes early as this popular event reaches capacity. The area around Power Plant Live! gets very crowded, so plan to arrive at least an hour before the race start time!
Price: $45-$55 per person
Afternoon: Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
Head to the 63rd Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade at 2:00 PM, starting at the Washington Monument. Expect lively floats, music, and green-clad crowds. Last year, I watched from a spot near the reviewing stand on Pratt Street, which offered great views of the passing bands and dancers.
The parade route typically runs from the Washington Monument down Charles Street, then east on Pratt Street through the Inner Harbor. Stake out your spot early (around 1:00 PM) to get a good view!
💡 Pro Tip: For the best parade viewing experience, I recommend finding a spot on Charles Street between Monument and Lexington. This section tends to be less crowded than the Inner Harbor area but still offers great views. Last year, I brought a foldable camping chair and a thermos of hot chocolate, which made the waiting time much more comfortable. Several nearby restaurants along Charles Street also offer “parade packages” with reserved window seating and food/drink specials—worth checking out if you prefer to watch in comfort!
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Viewing Tips
Cultural Event Family Friendly
The parade is the highlight of things to do in Baltimore this weekend! With over 60 years of tradition, this celebration features colorful floats, marching bands, dance groups, and plenty of Irish spirit.
Essential Parade Tips:
- Arrive by 1:00 PM to secure a good viewing spot
- Bring a folding chair if you plan to stay for the whole parade
- Wear green to get into the spirit!
- Pack water and snacks (or position yourself near restaurants)
- Consider public transportation as parking will be limited
After the parade, many local pubs offer special St. Patrick’s Day events with live Irish music, traditional food, and of course, plenty of Guinness!
Evening: Choose Your Entertainment
End your weekend with a bang by choosing one of these exciting Sunday evening events:
| Event | Venue | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Millennium Tour | CFG Bank Arena | 8:00 PM | R&B/Hip-Hop Fans |
| The Harlem Globetrotters | Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena | 7:00 PM | Families with Children |
| Nina Simone Project | Keystone Korner Baltimore | 7:30 PM | Jazz Enthusiasts |
| Maryland Opera Concert | Church of the Redeemer | 6:00 PM | Classical Music Lovers |
| Irish Music Session | James Joyce Irish Pub | 8:00 PM | Folk Music & Irish Culture Fans |
🎵 SECURE YOUR MILLENNIUM TOUR TICKETS BEFORE THEY SELL OUT!
Additional Tips and Recommendations
Make the most of your weekend with these practical pointers for things to do in Baltimore this weekend.
Where to Eat
Baltimore’s food scene is incredible! Here’s a table of my favorite options:
| Meal | Recommendation | Cuisine | Must-Try Dish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Miss Shirley’s Cafe | Southern | Crab Cake Eggs Benedict |
| Breakfast | Blue Moon Cafe | Vegetarian | Captain Crunch French Toast |
| Lunch | Jimmy’s Famous Seafood | Seafood | Classic Crab Cakes |
| Lunch | Banditos | Mexican | Street Corn Guacamole |
| Dinner | Charleston | Fine Dining | Lobster Soup with Curry |
| Dinner | Ekiben | Asian Fusion | Neighborhood Bird Sandwich |
Baltimore Food Tour Experience
Culinary Experience Local Flavors
Want to sample multiple Baltimore specialties in one go? This food tour is the perfect solution for foodies who want to taste a bit of everything without committing to full meals at multiple restaurants.
Tour Highlights:
- 3-hour guided walking tour with 5-7 food stops
- Sample signature Baltimore dishes including crab cakes and local seafood
- Learn about the city’s culinary history and influences
- Small group size ensures personalized experience
Price: $85 per person
Getting Around
- Walk downtown areas like Inner Harbor and Fell’s Point. The streets are very pedestrian-friendly!
- Use the Charm City Circulator, a free bus service hitting major spots. The Purple Route is particularly useful for tourists.
- For longer trips, opt for Light Rail, Metro Subway, or rideshares (Uber/Lyft).
💡 Pro Tip: My favorite way to navigate Baltimore is using a combination of walking and the free Charm City Circulator. On my last trip, I saved over $50 in transportation costs by using this strategy! The Purple Route connects most tourist areas, and the buses run every 10-15 minutes. Just download the Transit app to track bus arrival times in real-time. For evening activities, I switch to rideshares for safety and convenience.
Safety Tips
- Stick to well-lit areas at night, especially after events.
- Keep valuables secure in crowded spots like the parade.
- Use public transport or rideshares if walking alone after dark.
- As with any city, stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in unfamiliar areas.
FAQ Section
Is there anything fun to do in Baltimore?
Absolutely! Baltimore boasts cultural attractions (museums, theaters), outdoor spaces (parks, waterfronts), and seasonal events (concerts, festivals). This weekend offers comedy shows, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and more. The Inner Harbor alone has enough activities to fill an entire day!
How do you spend a day in Baltimore?
Here’s a sample day:
- Morning: Explore the National Aquarium and grab coffee at a local cafe.
- Afternoon: Stroll Inner Harbor or tour historic Fell’s Point.
- Evening: Dine in Little Italy, then catch a show or concert.
This weekend in particular offers special events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade that make for a unique Baltimore experience!
What events are happening in Baltimore this week?
For March 14-16, 2025:
- Friday: Sebastian Maniscalco comedy show or Cabaret of Mysteries: Shamrock Soirée.
- Saturday: Baltimore Symphony Orchestra concert.
- Sunday: St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Shamrock 5K, and concerts like The Millennium Tour.
These events make it an especially exciting weekend to visit Baltimore!
What is Baltimore famous for?
Baltimore shines with:
- Seafood — Especially crab cakes that are second to none. My personal obsession!
- History — Fort McHenry and “The Star-Spangled Banner” origin story.
- Neighborhoods — Charming Fell’s Point and Federal Hill with their distinct character.
- Culture — The Walters Art Museum, National Aquarium, and vibrant arts scene.
Ready for an Unforgettable Baltimore Weekend?
Don’t miss this special St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Charm City! With perfect spring weather, festive events, and incredible food, there’s no better time to experience Baltimore’s unique character.
