25 Things to Do in Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore, Maryland’s largest city, offers a captivating mix of maritime history, charming neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scenes centered around its famous harbor. Planning your visit involves exploring unique historical sites Baltimore boasts, finding engaging family-friendly activities Baltimore provides near the water, and taking advantage of the many delightful free things to do in Baltimore, from museum visits to park strolls. This “Charm City” reveals its character through its distinct local flavor and rich heritage.

From cracking steamed crabs like a local to exploring world-class museums and historic ships, Baltimore delivers a diverse range of experiences. This guide presents 30 distinct activities, blending iconic Inner Harbor attractions with hidden neighborhood gems. Use these suggestions to shape your Baltimore itinerary and discover the city’s authentic spirit.

Waterfront Wonders

Stroll along the Inner Harbor promenade, the bustling heart of Baltimore’s waterfront, connecting many key attractions. Enjoy people-watching, street performers, and views of the water and cityscape.

Explore the incredible aquatic world at the National Aquarium, featuring thousands of animals in diverse habitats, from tropical rainforests to coral reefs. Plan several hours for this popular, immersive experience.

Step aboard the Historic Ships in Baltimore, a collection including the USS Constellation (Civil War sloop-of-war), USS Torsk (submarine), and others docked in the harbor. Explore maritime history firsthand through tours of these vessels.

See the harbor from a different angle by taking a Baltimore Water Taxi or joining a harbor cruise. These offer convenient transport between waterfront spots and unique perspectives of the skyline.

Engage with interactive science exhibits at the Maryland Science Center, located right on the Inner Harbor. Its hands-on displays, planetarium, and IMAX theater make it great for all ages.

Catch a glimpse of Mr. Trash Wheel, a whimsical, solar- and hydro-powered trash interceptor cleaning the harbor near Pier 6. Check its social media for humorous updates on its collection efforts.

Historic Sites and Neighborhoods

Visit Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, birthplace of the U.S. national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Explore the star-shaped fort and learn about the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812.

Wander the historic cobblestone streets of Fell’s Point, a waterfront neighborhood known for its preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, lively pubs, unique shops, and maritime atmosphere. It feels like stepping back in time.

Climb Federal Hill Park for stunning panoramic views overlooking the Inner Harbor and the city skyline. It’s a perfect spot for photos and understanding the city’s layout.

Explore the elegant Mount Vernon neighborhood, centered around the original Washington Monument. Admire the stately brownstones, visit cultural institutions, and see the stunning George Peabody Library interior.

Walk “The Avenue” (36th Street) in Hampden, a quirky neighborhood known for its independent boutiques, vintage stores, eclectic restaurants, and the annual “HonFest.” It showcases Baltimore’s unique local character.

Visit the humble Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum to see where the famed writer lived in the 1830s. Learn about his life, works, and mysterious death in Baltimore.

Discover railroad history at the B&O Railroad Museum, considered the birthplace of American railroading. Explore the impressive collection of historic locomotives and rolling stock in the roundhouse.

Learn about the woman who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner at the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House. Tour Mary Pickersgill’s 1793 home and see exhibits related to the flag and the War of 1812.

Museums and Culture

Admire vast art collections spanning centuries and cultures at the Walters Art Museum in Mount Vernon. General admission is free, offering access to masterpieces from ancient Egypt to 20th-century Europe.

Explore diverse art collections, particularly strong in modern art and holdings from Matisse, at the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) near Johns Hopkins University. General admission is free to see its impressive permanent collection.

Experience outsider art at the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) near Federal Hill, celebrating intuitive, self-taught artistry. Its unique exhibits and building exterior are wonderfully unconventional.

Delve into the history and culture of African Americans in Maryland at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture. Find engaging exhibits near the Inner Harbor.

Step inside the breathtaking George Peabody Library in Mount Vernon, often called a “cathedral of books.” Admire the stunning stacks soaring five tiers high under a massive skylight (check visiting hours).

Explore Maryland’s past at the Maryland Center for History & Culture (formerly Maryland Historical Society). Discover exhibits on state history, decorative arts, and notable Marylanders.

Food and Drink Delights

Indulge in a quintessential Baltimore experience: eating steamed blue crabs seasoned heavily with Old Bay. Find crab houses throughout the city offering this messy but delicious feast (seasonal).

Visit Lexington Market, one of America’s oldest continuously operating public markets. Sample local favorites like Faidley’s crab cakes and explore stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods.

Enjoy the lively pub scene in Fell’s Point, hopping between historic taverns. Many offer live music, local beers, and classic pub fare in atmospheric settings.

Savor authentic Italian cuisine in Little Italy, a compact neighborhood filled with traditional restaurants. Find classic pasta dishes, pizza, and Italian pastries.

Try a Berger Cookie, a local treat featuring a thick layer of chocolate fudge atop a shortbread cookie. Find these distinctive cookies in local grocery stores and bakeries.

Explore Baltimore’s growing craft beer scene by visiting local breweries. Many offer taprooms with tastings and tours, showcasing diverse beer styles.

Parks and Unique Experiences

Catch an Orioles baseball game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, widely considered one of the best ballparks in Major League Baseball. Enjoy its retro design and downtown location for a great American pastime experience.

Relax in Patterson Park, a large urban park featuring a lake, walking paths, sports fields, and the iconic Pagoda observatory. Climb the Pagoda (check seasonal hours) for lovely park views.

Explore Druid Hill Park, one of the oldest large urban parks in the US, home to the Maryland Zoo and the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens. Enjoy its expansive green spaces and historic structures.

Discover vibrant street art and murals throughout the city, particularly in areas like Graffiti Alley in Station North Arts District. Exploring neighborhoods reveals colorful public artworks.