Fells Point Travel Guide

Explore Fells Point, in Baltimore, Maryland through this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and how to get there.


Introduction to Fells Point

Fells Point is one of the most historic and charming neighborhoods in Baltimore, Maryland. Established in 1730, it’s known for its traditional brick buildings, cobblestone streets, and maritime heritage. Today, Fells Point is a bustling hub of activity, replete with nightlife, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or adventurer, there’s something for everyone in Fells Point.

List of Places to Visit in Fells Point

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Baltimore Museum of Industry: Experience Maryland’s industrial past at this engaging museum that showcases exhibits on manufacturing, maritime trades, and technology.

  • The Captain James Cook Tobacco Factory: This restored factory now serves as the Baltimore Center Stage, home of two theaters that produce plays, musicals, and multimedia productions.

  • The Fells Point Visitor Center: Located in a historic shipbuilding company warehouse, this center offers maps, brochures, and tips on how to best experience the neighborhood.

  • The Admiral Fell Inn: This nautical-themed hotel is located on the waterfront, in the heart of Fells Point. It’s said to be haunted by the ghost of an old sea captain!

Natural Attractions of Fells Point: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Fells Point Waterfront Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along the harbor to watch the boats and catch the sunset.

  • The Canton Waterfront Park: This park offers a boardwalk, grassy knolls, and an amphitheater. It’s also a great spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing.

  • The Robert Long House and Garden: This enchanting garden is tucked away behind a brick wall on Ann Street. It features fountains, flowers, and a koi pond.

  • The Thames Street Park: This park provides stunning views of the harbor and is home to the famous “Mr. Boh” statue, a well-loved Baltimore icon.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fells Point

  • The Gwynns Falls Trail: This 15-mile paved trail runs through the city, passing by parks, historical sites, and landmarks.

  • The Jones Falls Trail: This 10-mile trail runs along the Jones Falls River, offering stunning views of the water and scenery.

  • The Baltimore and Annapolis Trail: This 13-mile trail connects Baltimore and Annapolis, passing through several parks, beaches, and historic landmarks.

Best Things to Do in Fells Point: Activities and Tours

  • The Fells Point Ghost Tour: This spooky tour takes you through the most haunted spots in the neighborhood, including the Admiral Fell Inn and the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park.

  • The Urban Pirates Cruise: If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss this interactive pirate adventure on the Chesapeake Bay.

  • The Fell’s Point Food Tour: Savor some of the best cuisine the neighborhood has to offer on this walking tour. You’ll taste diverse flavors such as Peruvian, Irish, and Southern comfort food.

  • The Baltimore Water Taxi: Take a scenic tour of the city by boat on one of the many water taxis available throughout the harbor.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fells Point

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic buildings and architecture of Fells Point, including the Admiral Fell Inn, the Broadway Market, and the Robert Long House and Garden.
Day 2 Take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area with a walk on the waterfront promenade or a kayak trip on the harbor.
Day 3 Visit the Baltimore Museum of Industry and the Captain James Cook Tobacco Factory to learn about the city’s rich industrial history.
Day 4 Experience the diverse flavors of Fells Point on a food tour or explore the local food scene on your own.
Day 5 Go on a ghost tour or family-friendly pirate adventure.
Day 6 Take a scenic boat tour on the harbor or hike/bike on one of the many trails nearby.
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique charm with a coffee at a cozy café or a drink at a lively bar.

Food and Drink Scene of Fells Point

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab Cakes: Baltimore is known for its delicious crab cakes, and Fells Point has some of the best. Be sure to try this iconic dish at Thames Street Oyster House or Mama’s on the Half Shell.

  • Oysters: Fells Point boasts several restaurants specializing in fresh oysters, such as The Point in Fells and Riptide by the Bay.

  • Bohemian-Style Pizza: These rectangular pizzas with a crispy crust and an array of toppings are a Fells Point specialty, and Matthews Pizza is a local institution serving them up.

Local Beverages

  • National Bohemian Beer: Affectionately known as “Natty Boh,” this local beer is a Baltimore icon and can be found in most bars and restaurants in Fells Point.

  • Crushes: A refreshing cocktail made of fresh-squeezed citrus, vodka, and soda water. Barcocina has some of the best.

Where to Stay in Fells Point: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Admiral Fell Inn: This nautically-themed boutique hotel is located along the harbor and offers luxury accommodations, fine dining, and unique charm.

  • The Inn at the Black Olive: A sustainable, eco-friendly hotel that offers personalized service and modern amenities.

  • The Celie’s Waterfront Inn: A historic bed and breakfast that offers cozy accommodations and a great view of the harbor.

What to Buy in Fells Point: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Crab- and Nautical-themed Souvenirs: Fells Point is a veritable treasure trove of Baltimore-centric souvenirs such as crab mallets, T-shirts and hats bearing the iconic “Mr. Boh” and port related novelties.

  • Locally Made Art and Crafts: Take home unique, handcrafted gifts from a visit to local shops and boutiques such as Sound Garden, Everyday Eclectic, and Fallen Angel Creations

Local Culture and Customs of Fells Point

Fells Point has a rich maritime history, and many of its residents are proud of their heritage. Take the time to chat with locals and hear their stories. Respect the historic buildings and cobblestone streets, and be sure to tip well when dining or enjoying a drink at one of the many bars in the neighborhood.

Best Time to Visit Fells Point

The best time to visit Fells Point is in the spring or the fall when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. The summer months can be busy and humid, while the winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fells Point

Do:

  • Explore the Neighborhood on Foot: Much of Fells Point is best enjoyed on foot, allowing you to appreciate the intricate brickwork and cozy courtyards of the many historic buildings.

  • Try the Seafood: Maryland is known for its exceptional seafood, and Fells Point’s eateries offer some of the freshest and most delicious crab, oysters, and fish you’ll find anywhere.

  • Take a Tour: Fells Point offers a wealth of tours options, including walking tours, bike tours, and harbor cruises, to help you navigate this lovely neighborhood.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Help keep Fells Point clean by throwing away your trash in designated bins.

  • Be Loud and Disruptive: Fells Point is a lively neighborhood, but be mindful of residents and other visitors by keeping noise levels in check.

  • Be Rude to Servers and Staff: Fells Point’s staff and service industry workers are proud of their neighborhood and will likely go out of their way to make sure you have a great time. Be polite and appreciative.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fells Point

Fells Point is a relatively safe neighborhood, but as always, use common sense when walking around at night or carrying valuables with you. In any tourist areas around the harbor stay vigilant about pickpockets.

Health in Fells Point

If you’re traveling from outside the US, be sure to have travel insurance to cover any health emergencies that crop up during your visit. Be sure to stay hydrated in the summer months to prevent heatstroke.

Getting to Fells Point: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fells Point

The nearest airport is Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI), which is just 30 minutes away from Fells Point. You can also access Dulles International Airport (IAD) or Reagan National Airport (DCA) in Washington, DC, which is an hour’s drive away from Fells Point.

Bus Stations Near Fells Point

The nearest bus stop is the Charm City Circulator Green Route that runs through Baltimore city and provides easy access to Fells Point.

Other Options

You can take a taxi, an Uber, or Lyft from the airport to Fells Point, or rent a car if you prefer to drive. Amtrak provides train service from New York city to Baltimore United train station and from there it is easy to access Fells Point with the Circulator bus service.

How to Get Around in Fells Point

Many of Fells Point’s attractions are located within walking distance, but the Circulator bus system is available for those who would like to explore other parts of the city. Additionally, bicycling provides an environmentally friendly and fun way to get around the neighborhood, with bike rentals available throughout the area.

Where to Go Next from Fells Point: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Canton: Just a mile away on the waterfront, Canton offers lovely parks, an urban beach, and some of Baltimore’s best restaurants and nightlife spots.

  • Inner Harbor: A quick ride on the Circulator takes you to one of Baltimore’s most popular tourist destinations, the Inner Harbor with its aquarium, science center, observation wheels, boats, and waterfront promenade.

  • Mount Vernon: One of Baltimore’s most historic districts with an array of museums and cultural institutions, trendy bars and music venues, and classical architecture.

Conclusion

Fells Point is an ideal neighborhood for travelers who enjoy rich history, scenic views, fine dining, and fun-filled activities. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, or traveling with family, this charming Baltimore neighborhood should be on your list of must-sees. With a little planning and organization, you can make the most of your Fells Point exploration and enjoy all that Baltimore has to offer.

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