Southeast Baltimore Travel Guide

Explore the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health tips, and more in Southeast Baltimore with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Southeast Baltimore

Southeast Baltimore, located in Baltimore County, Maryland, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by visitors to the city. However, this vibrant neighborhood is home to a plethora of cultural attractions, natural wonders, and exciting activities that appeal to both locals and tourists. In this travel guide, we’ll take a tour of Southeast Baltimore’s must-visit places, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health tips, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Southeast Baltimore

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Southeast Baltimore is home to a plethora of museums and historical places that offer a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Baltimore Museum of Industry: Located in a former cannery, this museum showcases the city’s industrial history through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine: The birthplace of the US national anthem, this historic fort played a crucial role in the War of 1812.
  • Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum: The home of the famous writer, Edgar Allan Poe, has been preserved as a museum that showcases his life and work.

Natural Attractions of Southeast Baltimore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Besides its cultural attractions, Southeast Baltimore offers visitors a chance to explore its natural beauty through outdoor adventures and scenic views.

  • Patterson Park: This park covers over 135 acres and offers visitors a variety of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and sports.
  • Canton Waterfront Park: This park has a scenic waterfront trail with spectacular views of the harbor and the city skyline.
  • Baltimore Inner Harbor: This historic seaport offers visitors a chance to explore a variety of attractions, including the National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeast Baltimore

For those who love to explore the area on two wheels, Southeast Baltimore has a plethora of biking and hiking trails that offer scenic views and thrilling adventures.

  • Jones Falls Trail: This 10-mile trail runs from the Inner Harbor to the northern Baltimore County line and follows the path of the Jones Falls river.
  • Gwynns Falls Trail: This 15-mile trail runs along the Gwynns Falls and offers visitors a chance to explore scenic parks and historic sites.
  • Canton Waterfront Park Trail: This 3.5-mile trail circles the waterfront park and offers magnificent views of the harbor and the city skyline.

Best Things to Do in Southeast Baltimore: Activities and Tours

Besides its cultural and natural attractions, Southeast Baltimore offers visitors a variety of activities and tours that showcase the area’s unique character.

  • Brewery Tours: Southeast Baltimore is home to several breweries, including the popular Heavy Seas Brewery. Take a tour and sample some of the area’s best craft beers.
  • Food Tours: Discover the area’s food scene with a guided tour that takes you through some of the best local eateries and bars.
  • Boat Tours: Explore the city’s waterways with a boat tour that offers a unique perspective of the area’s historic landmarks and stunning skyline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southeast Baltimore

For visitors who want to explore Southeast Baltimore in-depth, we’ve compiled a week-long itinerary that covers the area’s must-visit attractions and experiences.

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Baltimore Museum of Industry and try out local microbreweries.
Day 2 Explore the city’s cultural heritage with visits to Fort McHenry and Edgar Allan Poe House.
Day 3 Take a food tour of the area and try out local seafood specialties.
Day 4 Hike the Jones Falls Trail and visit Druid Hill Park.
Day 5 Take a boat tour of the Inner Harbor and visit the National Aquarium.
Day 6 Explore the Canton Waterfront Park Trail and enjoy a picnic in Patterson Park.
Day 7 Relax and unwind with a spa day or shopping trip in the Inner Harbor.

Food and Drink Scene of Southeast Baltimore

Must-Try Dishes

Southeast Baltimore’s food scene is renowned for its seafood specialties, including local blue crabs.

  • Crab Cakes: Try out the area’s best crab cakes, made with fresh, locally sourced crab meat.
  • Oysters: The area is home to several oyster farms that offer some of the freshest oysters in the region.
  • Old Bay Seasoning: This iconic seasoning is ubiquitous in Baltimore and can be found in everything from seafood dishes to popcorn.

Local Beverages

Southeast Baltimore’s beer scene is known for its unique craft beers and microbreweries.

  • Heavy Seas Brewery: This award-winning brewery offers a variety of specialty beers, including IPA’s and stouts.
  • Union Craft Brewing: This local brewery specializes in German-style lagers and ales.
  • Baltimore Whiskey Company: This distillery produces artisanal whiskey, gin, and other spirits.

Where to Stay in Southeast Baltimore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southeast Baltimore offers visitors a variety of accommodation options that cater to both budget and luxury travelers.

  • Inner Harbor Hotels: These hotels offer stunning waterfront views and easy access to the area’s top attractions, including the National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center.
  • Historic Bed and Breakfasts: These charming guesthouses offer a more intimate, home-like experience and are perfect for couples and families.
  • Budget Hotels and Hostels: Southeast Baltimore has several affordable options for budget travelers, including hostels and motels.

What to Buy in Southeast Baltimore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southeast Baltimore offers visitors a chance to bring home unique souvenirs and local products that showcase the area’s character and history.

  • Crab-themed Merchandise: Souvenirs with crab designs are ubiquitous in Southeast Baltimore and are perfect for remembering your visit.
  • Old Bay Seasoning: This iconic Baltimore seasoning is a must-bring-home for foodies and home cooks.
  • Artisanal Crafts: Baltimore is known for its vibrant arts scene, and the area offers visitors a chance to purchase handmade crafts and artworks from local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Southeast Baltimore

Southeast Baltimore is home to a diverse population that is united by a love for their city and its history. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions and to be courteous to the area’s residents.

Best Time to Visit Southeast Baltimore

The best time to visit Southeast Baltimore is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. However, the area offers exciting activities year-round, and visitors can find fun and adventure in any season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southeast Baltimore

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try out local seafood specialties.
  • Explore the area’s natural and cultural attractions.
  • Be friendly to the area’s residents.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety precautions.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Litter or harm the area’s natural resources.
  • Be rude or impolite to the area’s residents.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southeast Baltimore

Southeast Baltimore is generally safe for visitors, with a low incidence of violent crime. However, visitors should take precautions to stay safe, especially when exploring remote or unfamiliar areas.

Health in Southeast Baltimore

Southeast Baltimore has several clinics and hospitals that offer healthcare services to visitors. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate health insurance coverage and take precautions to prevent illness, especially during the flu season.

Getting to Southeast Baltimore: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southeast Baltimore is easily accessible by car, bus, and train. Visitors can reach the area through several airports and bus stations.

Airports Near Southeast Baltimore

  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
  • Washington Dulles International Airport

Bus Stations Near Southeast Baltimore

  • Baltimore Bus Station
  • Greyhound Bus Station

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train
  • Local Light Rail and Subway

How to Get Around in Southeast Baltimore

Southeast Baltimore is easily navigable through several modes of transportation, including public transportation, car rental services, and bike rentals.

Where to Go Next from Southeast Baltimore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southeast Baltimore is conveniently located near several popular travel destinations and excursions.

  • Annapolis: Take a day trip to Maryland’s capital and explore its historic landmarks and scenic waterfront.
  • Assateague Island: This popular camping and beach destination is known for its wild ponies and unspoiled natural beauty.
  • Washington, D.C.: The nation’s capital is just a short drive or train ride away, and visitors can explore its historic monuments, museums, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Southeast Baltimore is a vibrant neighborhood that offers visitors a chance to explore the area’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unique character. From its museums and historical places to its outdoor adventures and thriving food and drink scene, Southeast Baltimore has something for everyone, and visitors are encouraged to experience its wonders for themselves.

A surprising pagoda in Patterson Park A surprising pagoda in Patterson Park