Baltimore’s picturesque waterfront promenade spans eight miles through five neighborhoods, with spectacular sights and worthwhile stops along the way. At the heart is the Inner Harbor, home to beloved attractions like the National Aquarium and Port Discovery Children’s Museum. You’ll also find the Historic Ships In Baltimore: floating museums that include a tall ship, a submarine, and a lighthouse.
Home of the brave
See the harbor from a different perspective by chartering a sightseeing tour on board Hornblower Cruises or Cruises on the Bay by Watermark. The Baltimore Water Taxi is another scenic transportation method. Take it to check out the quaint shops in Fell’s Point or the view from Federal Hill Park, or to visit Locust Point, where Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine honors the Battle of Baltimore that defended the city from the British in 1814. It was during this battle that Francis Scott Key was inspired to write “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which later became the U.S. National Anthem.
Poetry in monuments
For more history, explore the lives of Maryland African Americans dating back to the 18th century at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, home to a permanent collection of more than 10,000 objects and temporary special exhibitions. Then, head to the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum to experience the history of the first African American-owned shipyard in the country.
Way more than crab (but, seriously, get some crabs)
No trip to Baltimore is complete without indulging in a traditional Maryland crab feast. Gather around a paper-covered table and dig into a pile of steaming Maryland blue crabs, served with mallets for cracking. Whether you’re dining at a waterfront staple like Nick’s Fish House or experiencing the local charm of LP Steamers, the ritual of picking crabs is as much about the experience as it is about the flavor. Pair your feast with a cold beverage, corn on the cob, and a side of hush puppies for the ultimate Baltimore meal.
Matisse meets the streets
Art lovers will find plenty to explore in Baltimore’s thriving cultural scene. The Baltimore Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection, including the largest public holding of works by Henri Matisse, alongside renowned contemporary exhibitions. For a more unconventional experience, the American Visionary Art Museum showcases the bold and imaginative creations of self-taught artists, offering a distinctive perspective on creativity. Throughout the city, street murals, artist-run galleries, and live performances further reflect Baltimore’s deep artistic spirit, making it a must-visit destination for culture seekers.
From world-class museums and historical landmarks to unforgettable culinary experiences and scenic waterfront views, Baltimore is a city full of discoveries waiting to be made. Whether you’re exploring its rich history, indulging in crabby eats, or immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy. But you won’t get it till you get here. Start planning your visit and uncover all that Charm City has to offer at Baltimore.org/travel-trade.
Photos submitted by by Visit Baltimore
