An Elaborate Visitor's Guide to Baltimore, Maryland, USA

An Elaborate Visitor's Guide to Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Baltimore, Maryland's largest city, houses a population growing towards 700,000 individuals and is characterized by its significant area stretching over more than 80 square miles (or 210 square kilometers). Conveniently situated near Washington DC on America's eastern coastline, it harbors an indispensable port, complete with an extensive harbor.

Sights and Attractions in Central Baltimore

A majority of the city's prime attractions are located in the centrally situated downtown district, which is subdivided into several noteworthy areas. These include the city center, the Inner Harbor, Camden Yards, and the West Side. These regions are characterized by a diverse assortment of shops, restaurants, bars, and essential architectural landmarks. Notably, the Fells Point area, located adjacent to the Inner Harbor, is renowned for its energetic nightlife and entertainment venues.

Baltimore Tourism: Noteworthy Sites

Baltimore offers a myriad of tourist destinations, from significant landmarks to historical sites, engaging museums, and art galleries showcasing works from acclaimed artists. Prominent attractions include the National Aquarium, the Basilica of the Assumption, Robert East Lee Memorial Park, and the Maryland Zoo 's African safari adventure. The Star Spangled Banner Flag House and the city's most recognized sight, the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, are also not to be missed.

Museums and Festivals in Baltimore

Catering to museum enthusiasts, Baltimore holds numerous museums including the Baltimore Museum of Art and the B&O Railroad Museum. Sports fans can enjoy the Babe Ruth Museum, while the Maryland Science Center, equipped with an IMAX theater and planetarium, caters to the scientifically inclined visitor. The city's annual festivals schedule includes the Baltimore Blues Festival held each May in Paterson Park, July's Artscape along Mount Royal Avenue, the popular Taste of Baltimore festival in October, and December's festive Washington Monument Lighting Ceremony.

Baltimore Hotels

Accommodations in Baltimore and surrounding regions cater to all budgets. For visitors seeking affordable lodging, motels near Interstates and the airport offer suitable solutions. Reasonable accommodations can be found in the city center, alongside five-star hotels presenting luxury amenities. Waterside hotels around the Inner Harbor area are highly sought-after, though the Mount Vernon area presents an equally attractive alternative. Historic hotels are abundant in the Fells Point area, side by side with economical family-owned bed and breakfasts.

Shopping in Baltimore

For optimal shopping, head to the Harborplace area, encompassing over 200 shops ranging from independent outlets to fashion boutiques. The nearby Village of Cross Keys presents an attractive mix of small shops and specialty stores. Antique seekers will appreciate a trip to Howard Street, home to various antique stores known as the city's 'Antique Row.' Baltimore is also home to modern shopping malls such as Security Square and Owing Mills. The long-established Lexington Market, in operation for over 150 years, houses a vast array of market traders.

Dining in Baltimore

Given Baltimore's strategic coastal position, it's no surprise that local restaurants major in seafood delicacies. A significant portion of the local produce is sourced from the nearby Chesapeake Bay, with many eateries serving steamed crab among other local dishes. For vibrant dining experiences, the restaurants around Mount Vernon and Fells Point are optimal, while exclusive establishments along Charles Street are among the city's most esteemed.

Baltimore Transport

Baltimore offers several public transportation options encompassing buses, trains, and trams. Many visitors find car rental convenient, particularly for day trips and excursions to neighboring towns and cities like Annapolis and Washington DC.

The Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI), located merely 10 miles (16 km) from the city, serves as the state's principal airport servicing numerous passengers daily. A diversity of ground transportation options exist at the airport, inclusive of taxis, shuttles, and trains.