Usually, Baltimore gets about as much love from travelers as the city’s beleaguered football team. But don’t let its underdog status fool you. Charm City has way more going for it than crime drama protagonists and delicious blue crabs drowning in Old Bay seasoning (though those are pretty sweet perks, not gonna lie).
Truth is, B-More is an East Coast diamond in the rough. We’re talking world-class museums, award-winning eateries, quirky neighborhoods with offbeat personalities for days, and an awesome waterfront harboring everything from historic ships to insane four-story fish tanks. Yeah, kinda makes you wonder why more people aren’t flocking here for vacay. But that’s their loss – more authentic MD charm for the rest of us!
With over 200 unique ‘hoods, Baltimore’s booming with options that’ll make your head spin like you just slammed back one too many Natty Bohs. Luckily there’s a method to Charm City’s madness. Everything branches out from the bustling Inner Harbor, where you can take in views for days, chow down in Harborplace, get schooled at the National Aquarium, and pay your respects to the spice gods at McCormick’s HQ.
So skip the National Mall cattle crushes and come hang with the black sheep of the Mid-Atlantic’s East Coast cities instead. B-More’s got its own uniquely dysfunctional charm that’ll definitely have you making return trips for more. Just don’t forget to pick up some lemon sticks and Berger cookies for the road!
About Baltimore
The seaport city of Baltimore has a rich maritime history, and many attractions are located in and around the city. Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the national anthem, is an interesting attraction in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. While visiting the city, be sure to check out the National Aquarium and the Civil War-era warship USS Constellation. The city has much to offer for visitors, and you can make your trip memorable by staying in an upscale hotel or renting a vacation condo.
In 1706, Maryland colonial legislators declared the area around Locust Point a port for the tobacco trade with England. Soon, Baltimore was a shipbuilding center, and the Fells Point district became a leader in the construction of clipper ships. In the nineteenth century, a gold rush led to large orders for fast vessels. The city also became a favored port for canned goods, and European ship lines set up terminals in Baltimore. In addition, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad made the port a major transshipment hub.
Despite its size, Baltimore maintains a small-town feel. Locals refer to the city as Smalltimore because of its tight-knit social scene. While this can create a sense of community, it can also be intimidating for newcomers.
Why Go to Baltimore
The largest city in the US, Baltimore has a lot to offer. Its history is rich and cultured. It was the first American city to build a railroad, and the city boasts some of the best museums and gardens in the country. In addition, the city is home to Edgar Allan Poe's grave and Babe Ruth's birthplace. Visitors to Baltimore are sure to enjoy their time exploring this historic city.
While you're in Baltimore, make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, as this city is full of beautiful parks and open spaces. For example, Patterson Park is one of the city's largest green spaces. It's filled with fun attractions like a Chinese-style observatory, shady pavilions, and playgrounds. The park also has a boating lake, a dedicated dog park, and a free public pool.
Another must-visit attraction is the B&O Railroad Museum. This museum is housed in the former B&O workshops. Its collection of vintage trains is among the best in the country, and train rides are offered during weekends.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Baltimore is when the weather is mild. In general, daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F. But, there are certain things to keep in mind before heading to Baltimore. For example, it is essential to have a valid vaccine card with clear, rainless days. It is also important to know what your vaccination record says because an inaccurate vaccination card could lead to serious consequences.
Visitors can enjoy Baltimore's many world-class museums during their visit. Some of the best museums are the Walters Art Museum and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Those interested in a more whimsical art experience can check out the American Visionary Art Museum, which is located in the city's Federal Hill neighborhood. Other museums worth a visit include the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland's African American History and Culture, and the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum.
In addition to being mild, the climate in Baltimore is generally very pleasant throughout the year. It is best to visit Baltimore in the spring and autumn and avoid the hottest months of July and August. In the winter, temperatures are chilly but still pleasant. During the summer, the city experiences many outdoor events and festivals that can add to the overall experience.
How to Get Around
Most tourists in Baltimore head to downtown areas and the Inner Harbour, but there are also many ways to get around the city without a car. The city has a water taxi system that functions like a bus and services many popular attractions, as well as other districts of the city. You can also take advantage of the city's bus system, which connects all parts of the city. Alternatively, you can opt for the light rail system or the metro. Taxis are also readily available in the city, and you can call them or hail them on the street.
There are many options for public transportation in Baltimore, which are inexpensive, and will allow you to get to the sights you need to see without having to pay a fortune for parking. Public transit is also often easier and more convenient than driving a car, as it is often closer to your destination. A good way to save money while traveling is to purchase a MARC Transit Link Card, which will give you unlimited use of the city's various transit systems for a month.
Best Restaurants
Baltimore is known for its seafood, crab cakes, and football, but its culinary scene is a little underrated. The city's strong chefs, accessible food traditions, and off-kilter pride make it a great destination for a meal. No matter where you want to eat in Charm City, you will find a place to suit your taste.
The culinary scene in Baltimore is booming, and many of the city's best restaurants have become renowned for their international cuisine. Venezuelan arepas and Basque pinxtos are just a few of the world-inspired dishes available at the city's restaurants. The menus feature the creations of James Beard Award-winning chefs, as well as traditional favorites.
While Woodberry Kitchen is not the oldest restaurant in Baltimore, it has arguably made the biggest impact on the city's dining scene. The restaurant, which opened in 2007, is known for its commitment to supporting local farmers and producers. Its menu is updated frequently and reflects the seasonality of its ingredients. The food is served in a fun atmosphere with wood paneling and a vibrant color scheme. The restaurant is also known for its extensive drinks menu and personalized service.
Things to Do
When you visit Baltimore, you can enjoy a number of cultural experiences, from historic sights to modern museums. Whether you are a history buff, a music lover, or simply looking for something to do with your friends, there is something for everyone. For the art lover, the Walters Art Museum offers a wonderful selection of paintings and sculptures from the past 5,000 years. Visitors can purchase artisan-crafted souvenirs in the gift shop and take guided tours to discover the permanent collection. You can also visit the Inner Harbor, a historic maritime district with gorgeous waterfront views. This vibrant city also offers a diverse range of shops and restaurants.
If you're planning a family vacation, this is a great place to bring children. Its waterfront location is a popular spot for a day out. You can also take the kids to the Maryland Science Center, which is located near the Inner Harbor. The museum has three floors of exhibits aimed at engaging both young and old visitors. The Dinosaur Mysteries exhibit, for example, gives children the opportunity to play paleontologists as they explore the exhibit's giant replicas. There are also plenty of other exhibits for the entire family to enjoy.
Weather
If you're planning a trip to Baltimore, you're probably wondering about the weather. The city has a moderate climate, but the city can still experience storms. The average temperature in Baltimore is around 40°F during the day. Summers can get very hot, so pack the appropriate clothing to stay cool. However, if you are visiting in the fall, the area has beautiful fall foliage. This foliage generally starts to appear in mid-October and lasts until early December. The area also enjoys plenty of sunshine year-round.
When planning a trip to Baltimore, make sure you know what to expect. The weather is usually sunny and warm during the day, and rainy and cold days are rare. During the night, temperatures can drop to around 10°F. The humidity level is generally between 50 and 60%. Rainfall is relatively low, and Baltimore receives only one-third of its average annual rainfall. You should also know that your vaccine cards may become worn or unreadable, so make sure you protect them. Also, make sure you have a global SIM card so that you can use it in most countries.
The summers in Baltimore are very pleasant, but the winters can get extremely cold. Fortunately, the ocean acts as a buffer for the city's climate, preventing it from becoming too hot or too cold. Despite this, temperatures in Baltimore typically fall between 18-30°F. In the fall, temperatures are mild and comfortable, and there are plenty of events and festivals taking place.
