70 Best Things to do in Baltimore!

Welcome to Baltimore, in Maryland! Located on the Chesapeake Bay, this city boasts a vibrant harbor, rich history, and diverse cultural attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a quick weekend escape or planning a longer stay, Baltimore seamlessly blends modern amenities with historical charm. Iconic seafood markets and world-class museums dot its landscape, and best things to do in Baltimore during your visit to Maryland.

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1. Historic Attractions

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

The Fort McHenry is known for its role in the War of 1812 when it defended the city from a British attack. This battle took place in September 1814, and the sight of the American flag flying over the fort inspired Francis Scott Key to write a poem that later became the U.S. national anthem. The fort, named after James McHenry, was built in the late 1700s with a five-pointed star shape to guard Baltimore Harbor. Today, visitors can walk around the fort, see live reenactments, and take part in flag ceremonies. The giant flag that once flew in 1814 measured 30 by 42 feet, meant to be seen from far away.

Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum

The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum is a small brick home, where the famous writer lived in the 1830s. Poe lived here with his aunt, and cousin Virginia, who later became his wife. Inside, visitors can see Poe’s writing desk, and personal items about his life and work. The museum shares stories about his time in Baltimore and how he became known f or his poems and short stories. It hosts the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival every October, which includes tours, performances, and family events. Later, the house was saved from demolition in the 1930s and opened as a museum in 1949.

The Baltimore Basilica

Built in 1821, The Baltimore Basilica, also known as the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, holds a special place in American history. It was the first Catholic cathedral built in the U.S. after the country was formed and offer guided tours. The design was created by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, and the church was guided by Bishop John Carroll, who was the first Catholic bishop in the nation. Over the years, the Basilica has been the site of major gatherings and ceremonies, like the funeral of Charles Carroll, the only Catholic to sign the Declaration of Independence.

Historic Ships in Baltimore

Located at the Inner Harbor, Historic Ships in Baltimore is a group of old vessels and a lighthouse that tell stories about life at sea and American maritime history. This floating museum includes the USS Constellation, the last all-sail warship built by the U.S. Navy, and the USS Torsk, a submarine that served in World War II. There’s also the USCG Cutter 37, a Coast Guard ship that was active during the Pearl Harbor attack, and the Lightship Chesapeake, which helped guide ships into the Chesapeake Bay.

One highlight on-site is the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse, first built in 1855, which helps explain how sailors once navigated safely through the bay. People can go aboard the ships to look at the crew’s living spaces, like where they cooked meals, rested, and carried out their duties. Exhibits and displays help explain how the ships were used in both peace and war. Each ship gives a close look into a different part of America’s naval past. The museum also hosts guided tours, field trips for students, and interactive activities designed for visitors.

Fells Point

The Fells Point is a waterfront area known for its long history and connection to shipbuilding and trade. Founded in 1763, it still has cobblestone streets and old brick buildings that now house shops, cafes, and museums. One of the highlights is the Robert Long House, and nearby the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park, which shares stories about African American leaders and shipbuilders. People enjoy walking along the harbor, riding water taxis, and exploring small streets. There are ghost tours for those curious about spooky tales, and events like the Oyster Fest bring people together.

Hampton National Historic Site

The Hampton National Historic Site was once the heart of a large estate that belonged to the Ridgely family for over 200 years, starting in the 1700s. The main house, completed in 1790, was the biggest private home in the country at the time. The site also includes formal gardens, original farm buildings, and preserved quarters that show how enslaved people and workers lived. Once covering 25,000 acres, the estate was used for farming, raising horses, and running ironworks. Visitors can walk around the grounds, take photos, and join tours of the house that take place Thursday through Sunday.

Maryland Center for History and Culture

The Maryland Center for History and Culture is a museum and library, where people can learn about the state’s past through real objects, stories, and exhibits. It was started in 1844 and is the oldest cultural group once known as the Maryland Historical Society. Inside, visitors can see items like clothes, tools, art, and furniture that show how people lived in Maryland over the years. One exhibit shares stories from Maryland’s civil rights leaders using real voice recordings. The museum also has special exhibits, such as painted window screens and quilts made by local artists, and offers guided tours.

Washington Monument

In Baltimore, the Washington Monument holds the honor of being the first large structure in the U.S. created to recognize George Washington. It stands in the Mount Vernon neighborhood and was designed by Robert Mills, who also designed the more famous monument in Washington, D.C. Work on the monument began in 1815 and was completed in 1829. The monument is made of white marble and rises 178 feet and 8 inches tall, while inside, there are 227 steps that lead to the top. The base of the monument has a small gallery with exhibits about George Washington and the history of the area.

Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum

The Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum is the home where baseball legend George Herman “Babe” Ruth was born in 1895. The museum opened in 1974 and offers a close-up look at the early life of one o f the game’s most famous players. Inside the restored row house, visitors find old photos, baseball gear, and personal items from Ruth’s youth, including the glove he used as a boy. The museum covers his journey from Baltimore to the big leagues and his time with teams like the Yankees and Red Sox. Visitors can explore where Ruth grew up and learn about his family life and early baseball days.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Baltimore Waterfront Promenade

The Baltimore Waterfront Promenade is a public path that runs for about 8 miles along the city’s harbor, connecting several neighborhoods and attractions like the Inner Harbor, Canton, and Fells Point. It began as a plan in the 1960s to improve the old harbor area and is now a mix of private and public land that stays open to everyone. Along the way, visitors see boats, piers, parks, and city buildings. There are benches to rest, green spaces to enjoy, and plenty of places to grab food or drinks. Water taxis run nearby and guided tours offer a fantastic way to explore the harbor area from the water.

Kayaking in Chesapeake Bay

Kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay is a peaceful way to enjoy the water and see nature up close. The bay has calm areas that are good for beginners and quiet spots for those who want to relax. Many people start their trip from places like Middle River or Dundee Creek, where local outfitters such as Eastern Watersports offer rentals, lessons, and guided tours. Some tours happen at sunset or even under the moonlight, while there are guided trips that focus on learning about the land, water, and animals. Some places, like the Anita C. Leight Estuary Center, offer special programs for families and kids.

Druid Hill Park

The Druid Hill Park is one of the country’s oldest public parks and covers about 745 acres of green space. Opened in 1860, the area that later became Druid Hill Park was part of the Rogers family’s estate before it was opened to the public as a place for outdoor activities. Visitors enjoy the park’s large reservoir with a 1.5 miles loop that’s great for walking and biking. Nearby, there is the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory, a historic greenhouse with many plants from different parts of the world. Today, the park is known for its gathering place for nature programs, local events, and group workouts.

Patterson Park

The Patterson Park is a large city park with about 137 acres of open space and places to relax and play. Founded in 1827 when William Patterson gave six acres of land to the city, and it later grew into a popular public space. The park ’s Hampstead Hill played a role in the War of 1812 as a lookout and defense site. Today, visitors enjoy the park’s paved paths and a large lake where fishing is allowed. Nearby, the park offers a variety of ways to stay active, with places to play soccer and baseball, plus tennis and basketball courts. Events like festivals, concerts, and movie nights, are held throughout the year.

Carroll Park

The Carroll Park is one of the city’s oldest public parks, once part of the Mount Clare estate owned by Charles Carroll in the 1700s, the land became a public space in 1890 when the city purchased it. Today, the park covers around 117 acres and offers a wide range of things to do for all ages. There are courts for basketball, fields for baseball and softball, and a large open space for soccer or football. It also has a 9-hole public golf course, located on its west side with a separate entrance. The park is also home to the Mount Clare Mansion, a historic house from the 1760s that’s open for guided tours.

Canton Waterfront Park

The Canton Waterfront Park sits along Baltimore’s southeast harbor and offers a peaceful space with open views of the water, including sights of Fort McHenry and large passing ships. Covering about 8 acres, it’s a nice place for walking, relaxing, or enjoying a picnic near the shoreline. Visitors can use the fishing pier without a license or launch boats from the ramp on site. The park links to the Baltimore Waterfront Promenade, making it easy to walk or bike along the harbor. It’s also served by the Charm City Circulator and the Water Taxi, that gives visitors an option to explore the area in boat tours.

Middle Branch Park

Stretches across about 150 acres along the Patapsco River, Middle Branch Park was created in 1977 by putting together smaller shoreline parks. Today, it offers walking and biking trails, spots for picnics, and places to fish or go crabbing without needing a license. The Baltimore Rowing and Water Resource Center is located here and supports rowing lessons and local programs. The Gwynns Falls Trail runs through the park, linking it with both the Leakin Park and Inner Harbor. The park hosts several events like live concerts, the Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival and Fourth of July fireworks.

Golfing Courses

In Baltimore, Mount Pleasant Golf Course is one of the most famous spots, once hosted professional tournaments and is open to all skill levels. Clifton Park Golf Course, which opened in 1915, was the first public golf course in the city and lets players enjoy skyline views while playing through all 18 holes. Carroll Park Golf Course is nearby Inner Harbor and has 9 holes, while Forest Park Golf Course has fairways surrounded by trees and offers a place to practice or enjoy a round. The Diamond Ridge Golf Course offer different styles of play — one with open fairways and the other with wooded areas.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Baltimore Museum of Art

Opened in 1914, Baltimore Museum of Art is a free public museum features more than 95,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, textiles, and photographs from many cultures and time periods. One of its most famous parts is the Cone Collection, which has pieces by Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh. Inside, visitors can explore variety of artworks like Asian collections, African art pieces, and modern works from American artists. It was designed in the 1920s by architect John Russell Pope and includes two sculpture gardens where visitors explore the outdoor art.

B&O Railroad Museum

Located at the site of the old Mount Clare Station, B&O Railroad Museum is a place where people can explore the early history of trains in the United States. It features a large collection of engines, train cars, and railroad tools that show how people and goods traveled long ago. One of the highlights is the roundhouse, built in 1884, where trains were stored and turned around. Visitors can walk through passenger cars, freight cars, and working engines to see what rail travel used to be like. The museum also has model trains and hands-on displays that help kids and families learn while having fun.

Baltimore Civil War Museum

The Baltimore Civil War Museum is located inside the old President Street Station, one of the oldest city train stations. Built in 1850, the station played a key part in Civil War history and the Underground Railroad. In April 1861, this spot was where Union troops from Massachusetts were attacked while passing through Baltimore. It highlights Baltimore’s Civil War role, the history of the railroad, and the escape stories of enslaved people seeking freedom. A memorable part of the site is when President Lincoln passed through here on his journey to Washington, D.C., just before his first inauguration.

Baltimore Museum of Industry

The Baltimore Museum of Industry is housed in an old oyster cannery from the 1860s and highlights the work of people in fields like steel, printing, food processing, and shipping, showing how their efforts shaped the city’s past. Inside, visitors can step into recreated workspaces like a print shop, garment loft, and machine shop to see what jobs used to look like. One section shares how the popular product Noxzema was first discovered by a local pharmacist. One of the exhibits features the tugboat Baltimore, a steam-powered vessel built in 1906 and known as the oldest of its kind still around.

Reginald F. Lewis Museum

Opened in 2005, Reginald F. Lewis Museum is the largest museum displaying over 400 years of African American history in Maryland through 11,000 items like photos, documents, and personal objects. It covers topics such as family, education, jobs, and the arts using exhibits, hands-on displays, and video stories. It also includes classrooms, a theater, and areas for special programs. Guests can attend public programs like art shows, concerts, and talks by leaders. Visitors learn about the life and work of Reginald F. Lewis, a successful businessman whose story is a key part of the museum’s mission.

Liberty Ship John W. Brown

Docked at Pier 13, Liberty Ship John W. Brown is one of the last surviving ships of its kind from World War II and offers a rare chance to explore real wartime history. Built in 1942 at the Bethlehem-Fairfield Shipyard, it made 13 voyages during the war, carrying troops and supplies to different parts of the world. After the war, it was used as a floating high school in New York City before being rescued by a group of volunteers who brought it back to Baltimore.

Now a museum ship, it allows visitors to tour spaces like the engine room, crew cabins, and control deck, while learning about the role of the Merchant Marine and Navy Armed Guard. The museum also has exhibits with real tools, stories, and photos from the time period. Special cruises and events are held through the year, including living history trips where people dress in uniform to reenact life at sea. The group also offers learning programs like steam school to teach about the ship’s engine system.

National Great Blacks In Wax Museum

The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum stands out as one of the rare places in the U.S. where life-sized wax figures are used to share the stories and struggles of African American history. Opened in 1983 and has more than 150 life-size wax figures. These figures show important people from different times, including leaders, artists, and everyday people who made a difference. Visitors can walk through scenes that tell stories about slavery, civil rights, and education. One powerful part of the museum is a full-size model of a slave ship that helps people understand what the Middle Passage was like.

The Walters Art Museum

Founded in 1934, Walters Art Museum features art from many different countries and time periods. It holds over 36,000 pieces that span more than 7,000 years, including ancient Egyptian objects, Roman statues, Greek pottery, and Asian and African art. The museum started with the personal art collection of William and Henry Walters, later includes paintings, jewelry, books, and sculptures from many cultures and time periods. The galleries are easy to walk through, with signs that explain the art in simple language. There are also special rooms for medieval armor, Asian ceramics, and religious art.

American Visionary Art Museum

Opened in 1995, American Visionary Art Museum is a unique place that shows art made by people who often taught themselves, like farmers and workers, who followed their own ideas. It holds around 4,000 pieces of art, that includes paintings, sculptures, and objects made from everyday items like bottle caps, wood, and fabric. The museum not only use regular curators but invites guest curators to create shows based on themes like joy, hope, or dreams. It hosts events like art workshops, movie nights, and Kinetic Sculpture Race, where people build moving art that travels over land and water.

The Fire Museum of Maryland

The Fire Museum of Maryland helps people learn about the history of firefighting in the United States. Opened in 1971 and has more than 40 old fire trucks and tools that show how fire service has changed over time. Visitors can see fire engines from the 1800s and early 1900s, along with uniforms, hoses, and alarms used in the past. One part of the museum tells the story of the Great Baltimore Fire of 1904, which destroyed much of the city and led to changes in how cities fight fires. It offers guided tours and events like Lantern Night, where staff dress in old clothes and tell stories from the past.

Lexington Market

The Lexington Market is one of the oldest public markets in the United States, first opened in 1782 in Baltimore. It has served the city for over 200 years and continues to be a place where people come together to eat, shop, and connect. In 2022, a new 60,000 square-foot building opened, bringing in more than 50 merchants and food stalls. Visitors can find a variety of local foods, like seafood, fried chicken, sandwiches, and fresh produce. One of the most well-known spots is Faidley’s Seafood, famous for its crab cakes. The market also has small shops selling flowers, spices, and handmade items.

Mount Vernon Place

The Mount Vernon Place is a well-known city square in Baltimore, that features the Washington Monument at its center — the first major U.S. monument built to recognize George Washington, opened in 1829. The square is made up of four parks that have trees, benches, and fountains where people can enjoy time outdoors. These parks are surrounded by buildings with detailed stonework, like museums, churches, and libraries such as the Walters Art Museum and the Peabody Library. The area is known for seasonal events like Flower Mart and Monument Lighting, making it a lively spot each year.

Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park

The Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park tells the story of two important African American leaders — Frederick Douglass and Isaac Myers, who played key roles in Black history and maritime work. Visitors can learn about the lives of early Black shipbuilders and dockworkers, along with the history of the Chesapeake Marine Railway and Dry Dock Company, which provided training and jobs to African Americans in the 1800s. Exhibits feature photos, stories, and hands-on activities that help explain how Douglass, once enslaved, and Myers, a free-born leader, struggled for equal rights on-site.

4. Family Friendly Activities

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore

Opened in 1876, Maryland Zoo is located inside Druid Hill Park, covering over 135 acres and is home to more than 1,500 animals from around 200 species. Visitors can explore different areas like the African Journey, and Penguin Coast, which has nearly 60 African penguins living in a space that looks like their natural home. There is also a section called Maryland Wilderness that shows animals and plants from the local area. Kids enjoy the Farmyard, where they can meet goats, pigs, and alpacas. The zoo offers daily animal feedings, keeper lectures, and special events like breakfast with the animals.

National Aquarium

Opened in 1981, National Aquarium is home to more than 17,000 animals from over 750 different species. Visitors walk through exhibits that show sea life from coral reefs, open oceans, and coastal habitats, along with areas that represent rainforests and rivers. Some popular spots are Shark Alley, where people can see sharks swim around them, and the Atlantic Coral Reef, filled with colorful fish. The aquarium features a Upland Tropical Rain Forest with birds, sloths, and monkeys, as well as a Blacktip Reef, where visitors can see a large tank filled with reef sharks and stingrays swimming together.

Maryland Science Center

Opened in 1976, Maryland Science Center is where visitors can explore science in an easy and fun way. The center offers hands-on exhibits about space, dinosaurs, health, and physics. There’s a planetarium with star shows and an IMAX theater that plays science movies on a large screen. The rooftop observatory lets people use real telescopes during special events. The Dinosaur Mysteries area features full-size dinosaur models and lessons on how they lived and moved. Newton’s Alley is filled with experiments that teach about motion, sound, and energy through interactive exhibits to understand.

Port Discovery Children’s Museum

The Port Discovery Children’s Museum is a fun and hands-on place where kids can learn through play. It covers about 80,000 square feet and includes areas where kids can climb, build, pretend, and explore. One of the main features is the SkyClimber, a tall climbing structure that lets kids move through different levels. There is also a pretend cargo ship where children can play as workers, captains, or engineers. Other areas include a water play zone, an art studio, and a space for sports and games. The museum also offers field trips, birthday parties, and special programs for schools and groups.

Top of the World Observation Level

Located on the 27th floor of the World Trade Center, the Top of the World Observation Level, allow visitors to enjoy a full-circle view of Baltimore’s skyline and nearby landmarks. It’s known as the tallest five-sided building in the world and sits right by the Inner Harbor, offering sights of city landmarks, waterfront areas, and sports stadiums. The space offer visitors with sign boards and maps inside that explain what they’re seeing from above. Displays around the room also tell stories about Baltimore’s past, important people, and nearby neighborhoods, making it a perfect spot to take pictures.

Urban Pirates

The Urban Pirates gives families and groups a fun way to explore the harbor with a pirate-style boat ride aboard the Fearless, which leaves from Ann Street Pier in the Fells Point area. The one-hour trip includes games, dancing, and storytelling led by crew members dressed as pirates. Kids join in by wearing pirate sashes, learning pirate lingo, and blasting water cannons from the side of the ship. Adults can choose special evening cruises where they bring their own drinks and enjoy music and light-hearted fun. Urban Pirates also offers themed trips for private events, birthdays, and school field visits.

Maryland State Fair Grounds

The Maryland State Fairgrounds takes place over three weekends, usually from late August through early September. The fair includes rides, food, concerts, farm animals, and horse racing. It’s a place where people of all ages come to enjoy games, shows, and local traditions. The fairgrounds also host events year-round, such as dog shows, craft fairs, and festivals. There are indoor and outdoor spaces that can be used for different types of gatherings. The fairgrounds include a grandstand for horse racing and an off-track betting center. During the fair, visitors can watch live races or place bets inside.

Hyper Kidz Baltimore

Located in Owings Mills, Hyper Kidz Baltimore is a 16,000 square-foot indoor play center designed for kids, with separate areas made just for preschool kids, toddlers, and also older children. The space features soft climbing structures, colorful slides, an LED dance floor, and an interactive pin screen, all made for safe, active fun without screens or arcade games. Children can explore freely during open play hours, which allow for unlimited time, or families can book birthday parties and group events using one of the special packages. Kids can run, jump, climb, and meet new friends while staying active.

Gwynn Oak Park

Located in Lochearn area, Gwynn Oak Park is a peaceful public space covering about 64 acres. It was once the site of an amusement park that ran from 1893 to 1973 and had rides like roller coasters and a carousel. The park holds a special place in civil rights history as it was where protests in the early 1960s pushed to end segregation, leading to its integration in 1963 when Sharon Langley became the first Black child to ride the carousel. That same carousel is now at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Today, the park has paved trails and it’s used for walking, and spending family time outdoors.

5. Entertainment Attractions

The Baltimore Convention Center

Nearby Inner Harbor, Baltimore Convention Center has been hosting events since 1979 and is run by the city. It was built to attract events and support local jobs and businesses, and over the years it has grown to include more than 1.2 million square feet of space. The center includes big exhibit halls, meeting rooms, and a ballroom, plus a green outdoor terrace that can be used for small events. A skywalk connects it to the Hilton Baltimore, making it simple for hotel guests to get to events. The center hosts all kinds of gatherings, from business expos and trade shows to public festivals and events

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra

Since 1916, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra has played a major role in city’s music culture, with most of its performances held at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. It presents over 130 concerts each year, covering a mix of classical music, movie soundtracks with live music, and programs. It also plays concerts at the Music Center at Strathmore in Bethesda, reaching more audiences across Maryland. The BSO supports education through projects like OrchKids, which offers music lessons for children, and the BSO Academy for adults. Special events and themed concerts are held throughout the year.

Oriole Park at Camden Yards

Opened in 1992, Oriole Park at Camden Yards is a baseball stadium and home to the Baltimore Orioles. It was the first of the “retro” ballparks that brought back the feel of older stadiums with modern features. It has a seating capacity of over 44,000 and includes Eutaw Street, a walkway between the park and old B&O Warehouse, where fans can find plaques marking home runs that landed there. It’s also known for Birdland Murals, a series of colorful artworks by local artists that celebrate Baltimore’s culture. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, see the field up close, and learn about the team’s history.

CFG Bank Arena

The CFG Bank Arena has been a major part of the city’s entertainment scene since it first opened in 1962. The arena can hold up to 14,000 people and is used for concerts, sports, and other large events. It has hosted basketball games, boxing matches, and shows by popular music artists. The building now has better sound systems, new seating, and updated food areas. There are also private suites and club spaces for guests who want a more comfortable experience. The arena is owned by the City of Baltimore and hosts more than 100 events each year, bringing people to enjoy live performances.

M&T Bank Stadium

Opened in 1998, M&T Bank Stadium has been home to the Baltimore Ravens and can hold over 70,000 fans and is right next to Oriole Park at Camden Yards. The stadium is known for being easy to get to and for having clear signs, helpful staff, and good food stands. It was built with help from the Maryland Stadium Authority and has gone through updates to improve the fan experience, including better video screens, sound systems, and seating areas. Fans can enjoy pre-game fun at RavensWalk, which is a walkway filled with food, games, and music shows between the stadium and the baseball park.

Horseshoe Casino Baltimore

Located near M&T Bank Stadium and Camden Yards, Horseshoe Casino Baltimore has been open since 2014 and offers one of the largest gaming spaces in Maryland, covering 122,000 square feet. Visitors can enjoy over 2,500 slot machines, more than 130 table games, and a special World Series of Poker room. It also features the state’s only full-service Caesars Sportsbook, where visitors can bet on live sports games. Inside, there are a number of places to eat, including local food vendors and well-known restaurants. The casino hosts live music, parties, and special events throughout the year.

Amazon Fulfillment Center Tours

The Amazon Fulfillment Center Tours take place at the BWI2 facility, and gives visitors a close look at how Amazon packs and ships items using both people and robots. The center is a robotics sortable facility, which means it handles smaller items and uses machines to help move them around. Tours last about 60 to 90 minutes and include walking about a mile, that shows how orders are picked, packed, and sent out, and includes facts about the technology and workers behind the scenes. Guest learn how online shopping works and see the steps that happen before a package arrives at your door.

Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland

The Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland has a large gaming floor with over 4,000 slot machines, more than 200 table games, and a big poker room. There’s also a sportsbook where guests can place bets on live games. The hotel has 310 rooms, including suites, and is rated AAA Four Diamond. Guests can enjoy meals at several restaurants, including a steakhouse and places that serve Asian food and local favorites. The hotel also has a spa, fitness center, and meeting spaces for events. There’s also a big venue called The HALL at Live! where live concerts, special events, and private celebrations take place.

GUNTRY Maryland

The GUNTRY Maryland is a large indoor shooting and training center located in Owings Mills. The facility welcomes visitors of all experience levels and provides a friendly place for everyone to enjoy. It has 34 indoor shooting lanes, including some that stretch up to 100 yards. Visitors can rent firearms, take part in training classes, or use the full-size simulator to practice in different situations. Inside, there’s a shop with gear and supplies, a café for snacks and meals, and a gunsmith on-site to help with repairs. For those looking for a more private experience, there are VIP lounges and a cigar room.

6. Natural Attractions

Cylburn Arboretum

Covering about 200 acres, Cylburn Arboretum is where people can enjoy nature, walk through gardens, and learn about plants. The land where Cylburn Mansion now stands was once the private property of Jesse Tyson, who began building the large stone home in 1863. The arboretum has many types of trees and shrubs, including maples, magnolias, oaks, and bamboo. The Nature Education Center offers programs for families, by hosting events like group yoga, summer camps. It’s a place for learning, with sign boards and displays that help people understand more about the plants and the land.

Rawlings Conservatory

Opened in 1888, Rawlings Conservatory is one of the oldest glass conservatories in the country. Inside, it features five main plant areas — the Orchid Room, Mediterranean House, Tropical House, Palm House, and Desert House, each with different kinds of plants from around the world. The glass and steel structure lets in plenty of sunlight, making the space bright and calm. Visitors can walk through the greenhouses to see trees, flowers, and plants that grow in warm, dry, or wet climates. People visit the conservatory for guided school field trips, wedding ceremonies, and photography sessions.

Gunpowder Falls State Park

The Gunpowder Falls State Park is one of the largest state parks in Maryland, covering more than 18,000 acres across Baltimo re and Harford counties. Founded in 1959 to help take care of the Gunpowder River and both the Big and Little Gunpowder Falls. Visitors can enjoy over 120 miles of trails for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Some trails go through forests, while others follow rivers and streams. The Hereford Area is known for hiking, fishing, and kayaking, while the Sweet Air Area has trails along the Little Gunpowder Falls.

The Central Area includes the historic Jerusalem Mill Village and offers fishing, paddling, and group camping. The Hammerman Area has a swimming beach, picnic spots, and a playground, making it a good place for families. The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail is a long path that follows an old railroad line and is great for biking or jogging. In winter, some parts of the park are used for activities like cross-country skiing and horseback riding.

Patapsco Valley State Park

The Patapsco Valley State Park is a large outdoor space that runs along 32 miles of the Patapsco River and spreads across more than 16,000 acres near Baltimore. It was set up in 1907 and is known as Maryland’s first state park. The park has eight main areas with different activities for visitors, including 200 miles of trails, with many marked for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are spots for fishing, and canoeing, as well as picnic areas with tables and grills. Families often visit the Avalon, Hilton, and McKeldin areas, which have playgrounds, and picnic shelters that can be reserved for events.

Herring Run Park

The Herring Run Park is a large public space stretching more than 375 acres from Morgan State University to I-895 and following a stream called Herring Run. It was first planned in the early 1900s to give people a green area close to home. The park has trails for walking and biking, along with ball courts, and playgrounds for kids. The Halls Spring section is a popular spot with a picnic tables, and a court for basketball, while Father Hooper Field has fields where people play soccer. A full loop trail links with other sections of the park, and smaller trails connect areas between Harford and Belair Roads.

Federal Hill Park

Covering 10 acres, Federal Hill Park sits on a hill just south of the Inner Harbor, giving visitors wide views of the city skyline and waterfront. It has open lawns, walking paths, and a playground where families gather to relax or play. The name of the park comes from a special event in 1788, when people gathered there to celebrate Maryland approving the U.S. Constitution, with a ship named the Federalist playing a major role in the festivities. During the Civil War, Union troops set up a fort on the hill, and today, some old cannons still remain as reminders, and in 1880, the land was turned into a public park.

Lake Roland Park

Just north of Baltimore, Lake Roland Park covers over 500 acres of forests, wetlands, and open fields, found near Falls Road and Lake Avenue. The park has many walking trails, picnic areas, and a lake where people can canoe or kayak without needing a permit, as long as they wear life jackets. There’s a special area called the serpentine barrens that is home to rare plants and animals, making it great for nature walks. Families enjoy the playground, art pieces, and reservable picnic shelters. The park has walking paths that are well-marked, making it relaxing space for anyone to enjoy a walk or jog.

North Point State Park

The North Point State Park sits along the Chesapeake Bay and offers over 1,300 acres of land with trails, picnic areas, fishing spots, and a beach for swimming. Nearly half the park is made up of Black Marsh, a wildlands area that’s great for quiet hikes and spotting birds and other wildlife. The park is also filled with history — it’s home to the remains of Bay Shore Amusement Park, once a popular waterfront spot from the early 1900s, and the Defenders Trail, which played a role during the War of 1812. Visitors can walk, bike, fish, or just relax by the water while learning a bit about the park’s history.

Rocky Point Park and Beach

The Rocky Point Park and Beach stretches across 375 acres along the Chesapeake Bay and offers views of Hart-Miller Island and Craighill Light. Visitors can enjoy a sandy beach, large picnic areas, boat ramps, and a fishing pier, making it a popular summer spot for families and outdoor lovers. The park also includes volleyball courts, playgrounds, open fields for games, and paved paths for walking or biking. It offers fishing, boating, and picnics, and has rentals for pedal boats, kayaks, and bikes. Pavilions and picnic areas can be reserved for group events, and park signs help visitors explore the space.

Cromwell Valley Park

Covers more than 400 acres, Cromwell Valley Park is filled with open meadows, wooded pathways, and flowing streams. The land was once used for farming, and visitors can still spot old barns and lime kilns that hint at its past. The Willow Grove Nature Education Center, in a restored farmhouse, offers hands-on programs about farming, and history, with live reptiles, amphibians, and displays for visitors. A Children’s Garden lets school groups plant and pick their own food while learning about how it grows. The park also run summer camps, seasonal events, and guided walks throughout the year.

Loch Raven Reservoir Park

The Loch Raven Reservoir Park is known for its peaceful trails, water views, and wildlife. The reservoir was built in the early 1900s to help supply drinking water to Baltimore and now holds about 23 billion gallons of water. The park covers a large area and includes more than 60 miles of trails for walking, biking, and nature watching. The land around the reservoir is home to many trees and plants, including oaks, maples, and wildflowers. People come here to fish, hike, take photos, or just enjoy the quiet. Boating is allowed in certain spots, but only with non-motorized boats like kayaks or rowboats.

Oregon Ridge Park

Covering over 1,000 acres of woods, Oregon Ridge Park was once a mining site in the 1800s, and visitors can still see remains of its past, like old iron ore pits and quarry remains. The park has a nature center with live animals, hands-on exhibits, and displays about local plants, animals, and history. Outside the center, there are gardens, picnic tables, and a nature play space for kids. The park has about six miles of trails that go through forests, and streams, with signs along the way to help people learn about the land. There are also pavilions, picnic areas, and a lodge that can be rented for events.

Rockburn Branch Park

The Rockburn Branch Park spreads across about 415 acres and offers wooded trails, and quiet stream valleys, giving people space to explore and relax. The park is split into East and West Areas, each with different features — East has ball fields, turf fields, and a BMX track, while West has a playground, many sports fields, basketball, tennis courts, and a disc golf course. Over 9 miles of trails passing through forests and wetlands, where visitors might spot wildlife and birds. Historic sites like Clover Hill House and Pfeiffer’s Corner Schoolhouse sit within the park and are used for nature programs.

7. Day Trips and Excursions

Washington, D.C.

Taking a day trip to Washington, D.C. takes around an hour drive from Baltimore and has plenty of things to see and do. Once in D.C., visitors can explore many free attractions, including the National Mall, where the U.S. Capitol, and Washington Monument. The Smithsonian museums, such as the Museum of Natural History and Air and Space Museum, offer free entry for all visitors. A hop-on, hop-off bus tour is a good way to see many places in one day, with stops at major attractions and museums. Families like to visit National Zoo or check out the hands-on exhibits at the Museum of American History.

Annapolis

Start a day trip from Baltimore and it takes just an hour to reach Annapolis using I-97 South. Once in Annapolis, most people start at the historic downtown area near the City Dock, where you can walk along the waterfront and see boats in the harbor. The U.S. Naval Academy is nearby and offers public tours that show the campus and explain its history. People also like walking through the Maryland State House, known as the oldest state capitol in the country that is still active today. In the afternoon, people often visit the Annapolis Maritime Museum or take a guided boat tours to explore the bay.

Gettysburg National Military Park

From Baltimore, a day trip to Gettysburg National Military Park takes nearly 1.5 hours drive and offers a great way to explore American history. The Visitor Center is a good place to begin, with maps, and a short film that explains the battle. There is a museum with items from the Civil War and displays that help visitors understand what happened during the Battle of Gettysburg. Many people take the self-guided driving tour, which has marked signs that explain key parts of the battlefield. You can choose to ride a guided bus around the site or walk with a certified battlefield expert to learn about the site.

Catoctin Mountain Park

Planning a day trip to Catoctin Mountain Park takes around 1.5 hours drive from Baltimore, by taking Route 77 straight to Park Central Road. The park has many hiking trails for all skill levels, including the popular Chimney Rock and Wolf Rock trails, which offer scenic views and forest paths. Visitors can enjoy picnicking at one of the many picnic areas with tables and grills. There are signs and maps to help people find their way, and restrooms are available in main areas. The park also has a deep history, including its connection to Camp David, the presidential retreat, though they are not open for public.

Antietam National Battlefield

From Baltimore, a day trip to Antietam National Battlefield takes around 1.5 hours, and is a good way to learn about historic battles. Inside the Visitor Center, there are maps, and a short film that explains the Battle of Antietam, which took place on September 17, 1862. The museum has items from the Civil War and displays that help visitors understand the events of that day. People take the self-guided driving tour, which includes 11 stops with signs that explain what happened at each place. Some of the most visited spots are the Cornfield, Dunker Church, Sunken Road, and Burnside’s Bridge.

Wilmington, DE

If you’re looking for a quick day trip, Wilmington in Delaware, is only about 70 miles from Baltimore and can be reached by car in 1.5 hours. Visitors can walk along the Riverwalk, a quiet path by the Christina River with views, shops, and places to eat. The Delaware Art Museum displays paintings, sculptures, and a sculpture garden. Families might enjoy the Delaware Children’s Museum, which has hands-on exhibits for kids. The Nemours Estate is another stop, with gardens and a large historic home open for tours. Downtown Wilmington has small shops, local restaurants, and parks for relaxing.

Philadelphia, PA

Taking a day trip to Philadelphia in Pennsylvania takes roughly 2.5 hours drive from Baltimore. Most visitors start at Independence National Historical Park, where they can see the Liberty Bell and tour Independence Hall. There are two great places to learn about America’s history — the National Constitution Center and Museum of the American Revolution, both offering plenty of exhibits. For lunch, Reading Terminal Market is a good stop with many food stands offering local and international meals. After lunch, people often visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art or walk along the Schuylkill River Trail.

How to Reach Baltimore

Baltimore is easy to reach by plane, train, bus, or car, with several travel options available for visitors from near and far. The main airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), is just 15 minutes from downtown and offers many daily flights from major cities like Minneapolis, Denver, and Las Vegas. For those arriving by train, Amtrak stops at Baltimore Penn Station along the Northeast Corridor, and MARC commuter trains connect the city with Washington, D.C. multiple times a day.

Travelers by bus can use services like Greyhound and Megabus, which run often between Baltimore and cities such as New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., offering affordable and scenic trips. If driving, highways like I-95 and I-83 provide direct access to the city, with Baltimore located about one hour from Washington, D.C., two hours from Philadelphia, and under four hours from New York City. The city is well-marked with signs, making it simple to navigate once you arrive.

Local Transportation

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) runs most of the city’s public transit, including local buses, the Light RailLink, Metro SubwayLink, and MARC commuter trains. Buses are the most common way to travel, with CityLink and LocalLink routes covering many parts of the city and nearby areas. The Light RailLink travels from Hunt Valley, passes through the center of Baltimore, and continues on to both Glen Burnie and BWI Airport. The Metro SubwayLink connects the city’s northwest side directly to downtown, offering an easy way to move around.

MARC trains are good for weekday trips between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. For short rides downtown, the Charm City Circulator is a free bus service with four routes that stop at popular places like the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill, and Johns Hopkins. The Baltimore Water Taxi is another option for getting between waterfront neighborhoods, with all-day passes available during warmer months. People can also rent electric scooters or bikes using mobile apps, which are useful for short trips.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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