Baltimore, Maryland
They call it Charm City — and it earns the name. Gritty yet endearing, Baltimore rewards those willing to explore beyond the obvious. This is a city of cult restaurants, cobblestone streets and rich American history. The charm here isn’t manufactured. It’s just Baltimore being itself.
Things to Do
While Baltimore isn’t the largest city on the East Coast, it packs plenty of activities for those seeking unique experiences. Whether you plan to stay within city limits, or are willing to drive a bit further out to see wildlife, this area has a lot to offer.
This is one of the finest aquariums in the country – certainly among the best that I’ve been to – and it’s sitting right on the Inner Harbor. From hypnotic jellyfish galleries to a lush tropical rainforest, the National Aquarium is genuinely world-class. The aquarium can get busy, so plan your visit here in advance.
Baltimore’s Waterfront Promenade winds along the harbor and offers great views. My husband and I used to walk this fairly regularly – it’s safe, scenic and bustling with activity. Walk it at golden hour when the light hits the water and the skyline glows amber.
Fort McHenry National Monument
Fort McHenry, the star-shaped garrison that held off a British naval bombardment in 1814, is the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner — and standing on its ramparts with the harbor spreading out before you, it’s not hard to feel why Francis Scott Key reached for a pen. Allow a full half-day for exploration.
Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards
Widely considered one of the most beautiful ballparks in America, Oriole Park at Camden Yards is worth a visit regardless of whether you follow baseball. The retro brick architecture, the intimate sightlines, the smell of Old Bay on everything — an afternoon or evening here is quintessentially Baltimore. Catch a home game while you’re here!
Home to one of the world’s largest collections of works by Henri Matisse, the BMA is a genuinely exceptional museum — and admission is free. The American Wing and contemporary galleries are equally strong. Plan a leisurely two hours here and emerge feeling quietly cultured.
The Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum
Poe lived, wrote, and died in Baltimore — and the city has honored him accordingly. The Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum, the modest Baltimore dwelling where he lived in the 1830s, is a genuinely moving place to spend an hour. Note that reservations are required, so plan ahead. Afterwards, pay your respects at his grave in Westminster Hall and Burial Ground and end the evening at the Annabel Lee Tavern — named, of course, for his final poem. It’s a pilgrimage for literary travelers and offers a perfectly moody Baltimore afternoon.
One of Baltimore’s oldest neighborhoods, Fells Point is all cobblestone streets, Federal-era architecture, and a bar on every corner. It’s a really cool part of the city, and it’s fun to go grab a drink and see the harbor. The nightlife here is lively and genuinely fun, but it can get rowdy in a way that feels markedly different from the quieter energy of Canton or the low-key residential vibe of Brewer’s Hill.
Stretching along nearly 32 miles of the Patapsco River and encompassing 16,043 acres just outside the city, Patapsco Valley State Park is Baltimore’s great green escape. Hiking trails wind through river gorges and hardwood forest, there are picnic areas, and enough terrain to fill a full day outdoors. It’s a great place for both birding and hiking.
North of the city, Gunpowder Falls State Park encompasses over 18,000 acres of river valley, wetlands, and forest across several units. The Big Gunpowder Falls trail system is a favorite among hikers and trail runners, and the river offers a relaxing vibe. Whether you’re after a gentle walk or a serious half-day hike, Gunpowder delivers.
Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge
While it’s a bit of a drive from Baltimore, Eastern Neck is totally worth the trip for birders and wildlife fans. It’s a 2,285-acre island refuge at the confluence of the Chester River and the Chesapeake Bay — and it is quietly extraordinary. Migrating waterfowl arrive in massive numbers in autumn, bald eagles are resident year-round, and the walking trails offer some of the most peaceful Chesapeake scenery you’ll find anywhere. It’s a perfect day trip for nature lovers and a reminder that Maryland beyond the city is worth exploring too.
As a horse girl, I’m always looking for equestrian activities to fill my time. Whether you’re a horse person, too, or you’re simply looking to experience something new, Maryland has a rich horse culture to enjoy. In the fall and spring, you can attend Steeplechase races throughout Maryland. Annual events like the Maryland Governor’s Cup point-to-point series offers a chance to watch incredible equine athletes do their thing. You can tailgate with a picnic and a cocktail for a relaxing day. Just be sure to book your ticket in advance, as they can sell out.
Where to Eat
Baltimore has an incredible food scene – I mean, incredible. It also has a broad range of restaurants based on price and preference. Whether you want an affordable to-go option for lunch, a special occasion dinner date location, or you’re craving fresh seafood, Baltimore won’t disappoint. I’ve lived in many cities in this country and can say, hands down, that Baltimore had my favorite food options.
Ekkiben · Asian Fusion
Ekkiben was a go-to for my husband and I, as it’s reasonably priced and incredibly delicious. Ekkiben draws on Asian flavors — think steamed buns, rice bowls and inventive sauces. It’s a takeout joint and typically its few tables are occupied, so plan on eating on the go. You can also expect lines, as this restaurant is very popular. The lines move quickly though – the staff is efficient. It has there locations, so you can go to whichever is most convenient for you.
Verde · Neapolitan Pizza
Baltimore’s answer to the eternal question of where to find a truly great pizza. Verde’s Neapolitan pies emerge from a wood-fired oven blistered and beautiful, and the natural wine list is one of the most thoughtful in the city. We were obsessed with the pistachio pesto pizza here – it was among our favorites.
Gunther & Co · American Brasserie
Named after the old Gunther Brewing Company, this beloved neighborhood brasserie has become one of Baltimore’s most reliable and satisfying dinner destinations. The menu is rooted in classic American technique with a seasonal sensibility — hearty, smart, and deeply satisfying. This is a pricier restaurant, so plan on more expensive meals and drinks than some of the other options in my list. My husband and I came here for special occasions.
Annabel Lee Tavern · American Comfort
Named for Edgar Allan Poe’s famous poem, the Annabel Lee Tavern is dark, literary, and quietly enchanting. The food is deeply comforting and the atmosphere is like dining inside a beloved novel. Meals were reasonably priced here and they have great themed cocktails. Whether you were a fellow English major or not, this is a go-to destination.
DiPasquale’s · Italian Marketplace
A Baltimore institution and a love letter to Italian-American food culture, DiPasquale’s is part marketplace, part deli, part restaurant — and entirely wonderful. The housemade pastas, imported provisions, and overstuffed sandwiches have been drawing devoted regulars for decades. Stop in for lunch, leave with a wedge of cheese and a jar of something you didn’t know you needed. There are two locations to choose from.
Nick’s Fish House & L.P. Steamers · Crabfeast
No visit to Baltimore is complete without sitting down at a paper-covered table, armed with a mallet and a pile of Old Bay–dusted blue crabs. It’s messy, communal, and one of the great American food rituals. While there is much debate over the best place to eat crabs in Baltimore, Nick;s Fish House and L.P. Steamers are brought up often as reliable go-to options.
Bmore Licks · Icecream
This is Baltimore’s favorite ice cream shop, and for good reason. Bmore Licks scoops inventive, locally-inspired flavors that change with the seasons. It’s the kind of place where you immediately start planning your second visit before you’ve finished your first cone. My personal favorite was Cookie Monster – it’s bright blue, but don’t let that deter you – it’s fabulous!
Where to Stay
One thing that can be a bit challenging in Baltimore is knowing where to stay. There aren’t a ton of options in this city compared to others, and few stand out as truly authentic Baltimore. I typically try to provide recommendations for unique stays that will stand out for you when you look back on your trip, but lodging is just not a highlight here.
This happens sometimes when planning a trip, so this is when I turn to Airbnb or, as a Marriott Bonvoy member, an affiliated hotel. With Marriott, I know I can count on a clean, convenient stay. With Airbnb, I have the chance to find something more affordable or unique.
My tip: Avoid staying directly in city center – it can be loud and busy and parking can be difficult.
Four Seasons Baltimore · Harbor East
For a full-service luxury experience, the Four Seasons Baltimore in Harbor East is the obvious choice — and it delivers. Rooms face the water, the spa is exceptional, and the location puts you within easy reach of both the Inner Harbor and the best of East Baltimore’s dining scene. Harbor East offers bougie shopping and dining, plus it isn’t far from Little Italy, for even more incredible dining options.
Airbnb · Canton & Brewer’s Hill
For those travelling on a budget or looking to stay in an iconic Baltimore row house, both Canton and Brewer’s Hill have wonderful Airbnb options that drop you directly into neighborhood life. I lived in Canton, toward the edge of Brewer’s Hill and absolutely loved it. Walking distance to fabulous restaurants and the stunning Promenade, these neighborhoods offer cozy charm.
If you’re considering expanding your trip in the United States, check out my U.S. Cities Series. 🇺🇸
