Downtown Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, food and drink options, hiking and biking trails, safety, and more in Downtown, Baltimore with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Downtown

Downtown Baltimore is the cultural and economic heartbeat of Maryland. This thriving urban core offers a myriad of attractions and activities that cater to all interests. From world-class museums and historical landmarks to scenic trails and outdoor adventures, Downtown Baltimore has something for everyone. Let’s dive in and explore what this vibrant city has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Downtown

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s no shortage of places to visit in Downtown Baltimore. Here’s a list of some of the top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Aquarium: One of the most iconic attractions in Baltimore, the National Aquarium boasts over 20,000 animals and a variety of exhibits.
  • The Walters Art Museum: Featuring 55 centuries of art from around the world, the Walters Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
  • Fort McHenry: A symbol of American patriotism, Fort McHenry is the birthplace of the United States national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
  • Baltimore Museum of Art: Home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, the Baltimore Museum of Art is a cultural gem.

Natural Attractions of Downtown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Patterson Park: A 155-acre park that offers hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
  • Inner Harbor: A picturesque waterfront area that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a harbor cruise.
  • Druid Hill Park: A sprawling park that’s great for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
  • Jones Falls Trail: A scenic 10-mile trail that’s perfect for biking or hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Downtown

Downtown Baltimore has a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer incredible views and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Jones Falls Trail: As mentioned earlier, this 10-mile trail offers stunning views of the Jones Falls River and Baltimore’s urban landscape.
  • Gwynns Falls Trail: This 15-mile trail takes you through some of Baltimore’s green spaces, including parks and forests.
  • BWI Trail: Located just south of downtown Baltimore, the BWI Trail is a 12.5-mile paved trail that runs through Baltimore-Washington International Airport and connects to other trails in the area.

Best Things to Do in Downtown: Activities and Tours

In addition to the attractions and outdoor adventures, Downtown Baltimore offers a variety of activities and tours. Here are some of the best:

  • Urban Pirates offers family-friendly pirate-themed boat tours of the Inner Harbor.
  • Charm City Food Tours offers guided tours of Baltimore’s best food and drink spots.
  • Segs in the City offers guided tours of Baltimore on segways.
  • Baltimore Ghost Tours offers a spooky and entertaining way to explore the city’s history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Downtown

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Downtown Baltimore, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the Inner Harbor, including the National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center.

Day 2: Visit Fort McHenry and take a boat tour of the harbor.

Day 3: Visit the Baltimore Museum of Art and take a walk in Druid Hill Park.

Day 4: Take a food tour of the city and explore some of Baltimore’s best restaurants and bars.

Day 5: Visit the Walters Art Museum and take a bike tour of the city.

Day 6: Hike the Jones Falls Trail and visit the Cylburn Arboretum.

Day 7: Take a ghost tour of Baltimore and explore the city’s spooky history.

Food and Drink Scene of Downtown

Baltimore is famous for its seafood, but there are plenty of other delicious dishes to try as well. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab cakes: Served in many Baltimore restaurants, these are made from Maryland blue crab and are a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Pit beef: A Baltimore specialty, this is a sandwich made from thinly sliced beef that’s been slow-roasted over charcoal.
  • Old Bay seasoning: Used to season many dishes in Baltimore, this unique spice blend is a combination of celery salt, paprika, and other spices.

Local Beverages

  • National Bohemian beer: A local favorite, this beer is affectionately called “Natty Boh” by the locals.
  • Baltimore Spirit Company: This distillery produces a variety of spirits, including gin, whiskey, and brandy.

Where to Stay in Downtown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Downtown Baltimore has a variety of accommodations to fit all budgets. Here are some options:

  • Kimpton Hotel Monaco: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • HI Baltimore Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located near many of the city’s attractions.
  • Baltimore Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards: A mid-range hotel located just steps from Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

What to Buy in Downtown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a unique souvenir or gift to bring home? Here are some options:

  • Berger Cookies: A Baltimore specialty, these cookies are a local favorite.
  • Crab-themed souvenirs: From keychains to t-shirts, there are plenty of souvenirs featuring Baltimore’s famous crustacean.
  • Old Bay seasoning: As mentioned earlier, this spice blend is a Baltimore staple and makes a great gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Downtown

Baltimore has a rich history and a unique culture. Here are some customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Maryland Blue Crab: As mentioned earlier, Maryland blue crab is a local delicacy and is a significant part of the city’s culture and cuisine.
  • The Hon tradition: “Hon” is a term of endearment used by locals, and the Hon tradition is a celebration of Baltimore’s working-class roots.
  • The Preakness: This famous horse race is held annually in Baltimore and is a significant event in the city’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Downtown

The best time to visit Downtown Baltimore is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Additionally, Baltimore hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar before planning your trip.

Do’s and Don’ts of Downtown

Here are some do’s and don’ts of visiting Downtown Baltimore:

Do:

  • Do try the seafood, it’s some of the best in the world.
  • Do take a walking tour of the city to get a feel for the local culture and history.
  • Do visit Fort McHenry, it’s a symbol of American history and patriotism.

Don’t:

  • Don’t wander into neighborhoods that you’re not familiar with, as some areas of the city can be dangerous.
  • Don’t eat at chain restaurants, as there are many local options that are far superior.

Safety and Health

Baltimore, like any city, has its share of safety concerns. Here are some things to be aware of:

Safety in Downtown

  • Stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid walking alone.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious of pickpockets and other petty criminals.
  • Consider using ride-sharing services rather than walking or taking public transportation at night.

Health in Downtown

  • Be sure to stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months.
  • Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when spending time outside.
  • Baltimore has excellent healthcare facilities if needed.

Getting to Downtown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Baltimore is easily accessible by car, bus, train, or plane. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Downtown

  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): located about 10 miles south of downtown Baltimore, BWI is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Downtown

  • Baltimore Greyhound Station: Located in the heart of downtown Baltimore, this bus station serves many destinations in the Northeast.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: Baltimore Penn Station serves as a major hub for Amtrak trains traveling up and down the East Coast.
  • Uber/Lyft: Both ride-sharing services are widely available in Baltimore and are a convenient way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Downtown

Downtown Baltimore is very walkable, and many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. There are also several transportation options:

  • Baltimore Charm City Circulator: This free bus service offers several routes throughout the city, including many Downtown attractions.
  • Bike Share: The Baltimore Bike Share system has over 40 stations throughout the city and is a great way to get around and explore.

Where to Go Next from Downtown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic region, there are plenty of nearby destinations worth visiting. Here are some ideas:

  • Annapolis, MD: The state capital of Maryland is a charming city located on the Chesapeake Bay and is known for its historic architecture.
  • Washington, DC: Located less than an hour from Baltimore, the nation’s capital is a must-visit for history buffs and political junkies.
  • Assateague Island: Located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, this beautiful national park is home to wild ponies and stunning beaches.

Conclusion

Downtown Baltimore is a vibrant and exciting destination with plenty to offer visitors of all ages. From top-notch museums and historical landmarks to outdoor adventures and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this bustling urban center. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Downtown Baltimore is a must-visit destination that won’t disappoint.

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