{"id":44553,"date":"2026-10-06T09:34:40","date_gmt":"2026-10-06T09:34:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/44553\/"},"modified":"2026-10-06T09:34:40","modified_gmt":"2026-10-06T09:34:40","slug":"8-best-things-to-do-in-baltimore-maryland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/44553\/","title":{"rendered":"8 Best Things to do in Baltimore, Maryland"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Planning a trip to Baltimore and wondering what to do? You\u2019re in the right place!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Baltimore is best known for its maritime history and iconic Maryland blue crabs, but the city has much more to offer than the harbor. This independent seaport city is known for its many firsts, hip neighborhoods, baseball games, scenic views, and world-class art.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There\u2019s actually a lot to see and do here, and I\u2019m sure you\u2019ll want to make the most of your visit, no matter how short it is. To make things easier, we\u2019ve put together some of our favorite things to do in Baltimore, from indoor skydiving, sloths, and dolphins to local food you definitely need to try. Let\u2019s get right into it!<\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading255650_49c653-18 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading has-theme-palette-6-color has-text-color\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading255650_49c653-18\">Don\u2019t miss out!<\/p>\n<p>Our Top Choice<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"The historic La Fayette Statue near the Washington Monument, Baltimore, Maryland\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-255924 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-historic-La-Fayette-Statue-near-the-Washington-Monument-Baltimore-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/><\/p>\n<p>Baltimore at a Glance\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"View of the Inner Harbor from Federal Hill Park in Baltimore, Maryland 4\" class=\"wp-image-255957 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/View-of-the-Inner-Harbor-from-Federal-Hill-Park-in-Baltimore-Maryland-4.webp\"  data-\/>Federal Hill Park<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Cannons at Fort McHenry, Maryland USA, Baltimore 2\" class=\"wp-image-255954 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cannons-at-Fort-McHenry-Maryland-USA-Baltimore-2.webp\"  data-\/>Cannons at Fort McHenry<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we get into the best things to do in Baltimore, here are a few practical tips to make your trip a little easier.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Important Tip: Skip the rental car if you\u2019re staying downtown! <\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting from the airport: BWI Airport is around 15 minutes from downtown by car, depending on traffic. The best way to get to the city is by taxi, rideshare, or public transportation.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Parking: If you\u2019re driving, check your parking options ahead of time. Plenty of garages are available downtown, and you can even reserve a spot in advance.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Save on attractions: Baltimore has some great free attractions, including the Walters Art Museum and the Baltimore Museum of Art, so you can add a few cultural stops to your trip without spending extra on tickets.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>How We Would Spend 3 Days in Baltimore<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Day 1: History, Aquariums &amp; Nighttime Fun<br \/>Explore Baltimore on a historical sightseeing tour, stop at Fort McHenry, spend the afternoon at the National Aquarium, then finish the day with dinner and either glow-in-the-dark splatter painting or drinks with a view at Topside.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83e\udd80 Day 2: Views, Forts, Fells Point &amp; A LOT of Food<br \/>Start with breakfast and a great view from Federal Hill Park, visit Fort McHenry, then spend the afternoon around Fells Point on a food walking tour before finishing the day with live music.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83c\udfa8 Day 3: Art, Food &amp; Hampden<br \/>Visit the Walters Art Museum, choose between Topgolf or Rawlings Conservatory, then enjoy dinner in Hampden and finish with ice cream.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Want more details? Check out our 3-day Baltimore itinerary here for the complete plan!<\/p>\n<p>Things to do in Baltimore\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>1. Taste your way through historic Fells Point\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Taco-on-a-plate on a food tour in Baltimore, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255920 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Taco-on-a-plate-on-a-food-tour-in-Baltimore-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/>We will never turn down tacos!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Mango sticky rice eaten on a food tour in Baltimore, Maryland 1\" class=\"wp-image-255962 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Mango-sticky-rice-eaten-on-a-food-tour-in-Baltimore-Maryland-1.webp\"  data-\/>Mango sticky rice<\/p>\n<p>Duration: 4 hours<\/p>\n<p>Time: 3 pm (Saturdays and Sundays)<\/p>\n<p>Highlights: Explore Baltimore\u2019s historic waterfront neighborhood, visit local restaurants and cafes, and taste Chesapeake Bay and Maryland specialties\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Inclusions: Local guide, food tasting, one drink, dinner, alcoholic beverages, small-group tour<\/p>\n<p>Rating: 4.9 stars (check 190+ reviews here)<\/p>\n<p>Free Cancellation: Yes<\/p>\n<p>Price: Check price here!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you came to Baltimore for the food, you\u2019ll definitely enjoy this walking food tour around Fells Point. This is Baltimore\u2019s lively waterfront, with restaurants, markets, cafes, and lots of historic buildings, so there\u2019s SO much to see and do. Over four hours, you\u2019ll explore it all, learn some interesting history tidbits, and stop at local spots for some delicious food.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll get to try some typical Chesapeake Bay and Maryland dishes, and I really liked that we weren\u2019t just eating at the usual tourist spots. We tried everything from crab cakes, tacos, and salads to Nepalese chicken, plus pastries and coffee to finish.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In other words, there was a ton of food! By the end, we\u2019d had enough to make up a full meal, so definitely don\u2019t eat a huge lunch before you go. You\u2019ll also get one drink included, although you can always buy another if you feel like it.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you walk around Fells Point, your guide will also share the neighborhood\u2019s history and point out some of the old buildings, which are pretty cool to photograph. Since you\u2019ll be walking quite a bit, make sure you wear comfortable shoes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overall, if you want to eat some good food, explore Fells Point, and pick up a few Baltimore stories along the way, this is a fun one to try. And clearly, we aren\u2019t the only ones who enjoyed it\u2014 check out the five-star reviews here to see why this is the best food tour in Baltimore! Just plan ahead if you\u2019re interested, as the tour only runs on weekends.<\/p>\n<p>2. Get to know Baltimore\u2019s stories with a local guide\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Baltimore City Hall, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255922 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Baltimore-City-Hall-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/>Baltimore City Hall<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church in Baltimore, Maryland 2\" class=\"wp-image-255966 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Mount-Vernon-Place-United-Methodist-Church-in-Baltimore-Maryland-2.webp\"  data-\/>Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church<\/p>\n<p>Duration: 1.5 hours<\/p>\n<p>Time: 10:30 am or 12:30 pm<\/p>\n<p>Highlights: Explore Baltimore\u2019s neighborhoods, learn history, get tips on what to see and do, stop at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine<\/p>\n<p>Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, small-group experience, local guide\/driver<\/p>\n<p>Rating: 4.6 stars (check 470+ reviews here)<\/p>\n<p>Free Cancellation: Yes<\/p>\n<p>Price: Check price here!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re short on time and want a proper introduction to the city, this historical sightseeing tour with a local guide is pretty hard to beat! You\u2019ll explore Baltimore neighborhoods and hear fun stories and random facts behind the places you pass.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll see Little Italy, Shot Tower, City Hall, Battle Monument, the Bromo Arts District, CFG Bank Arena, historic rowhomes, restaurants, Cross Street Market in Federal Hill, and more! There\u2019s also a 20-minute stop at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, where admission is free.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The meeting point at the harborfront Visitor Center was pretty convenient, and the van was clean and comfortable. I also liked that it was a small group. The tour can have up to 11 people, but there were only three couples when we went, so even better!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We kept asking questions, and our guide had plenty of local tips to share, so we left with lots of ideas for places to check out later. At only an hour and a half, it was also easy to fit into our day, and having two different times to choose from was definitely helpful.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All in all, if you\u2019re visiting Baltimore for the first time, I\u2019d do this one early in your trip. It\u2019s a fun way to get an idea of the different areas and decide which ones you want to explore more on your own.<\/p>\n<p>3. Dive into Baltimore\u2019s famous National Aquarium\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"A-seahorse-at-the-Baltimore National Aquarium, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255927 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/A-seahorse-at-the-Baltimore-National-Aquarium-Maryland.jpg\"  data-\/>We highly recommend visiting<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Jellyfish at the Baltimore National Aquarium, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255928 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Jellyfish-at-the-Baltimore-National-Aquarium-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/>Great for adults and kids<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re spending time around Baltimore\u2019s Inner Harbor, make sure you leave some time for the National Aquarium. It\u2019s one of the city\u2019s most famous attractions, and there\u2019s a LOT to see inside. You\u2019ll find everything from Blacktip Reef and Shark Alley to Jellies Invasion, Living Seashore, and rainforest areas with sloths and tropical birds.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are also coral reef habitats and the new Harbor Wetland floating habitat right in the Inner Harbor. Yep, a floating wetland! I really enjoyed the dolphin exhibit, and there\u2019s a cafeteria where you can grab a few snacks and hang out for a bit if the crowds get to be too much. To avoid the busiest times, arrive early in the morning.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I think this is a great stop on a rainy day or when it\u2019s hot outside, and you need to cool off for a few hours. And if you\u2019re traveling with kids, they\u2019ll definitely have plenty to keep them busy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best part is the location. Once you\u2019re done exploring the aquarium, you\u2019re right back in the Inner Harbor, so you\u2019ve got restaurants, cafes, Harborplace, and the waterfront all within easy reach.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">General admission includes the exhibits and daily presentations, but tickets are timed, so you\u2019ll need to choose an entry time when booking. Admission is currently $50 per person, and I\u2019d book ahead since it\u2019s pretty popular.<\/p>\n<p>4. Take in the harbor views from Federal Hill Park\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"View of the harbor from Federal Hill Park in Baltimore, Maryland 2\" class=\"wp-image-255991 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/View-of-the-harbor-from-Federal-Hill-Park-in-Baltimore-Maryland-2.webp\"  data-\/>View of the harbor from Federal Hill Park<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Monument at Federal Hill Park in Baltimore, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255990 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Monument-at-Federal-Hill-Park-in-Baltimore-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/>The Colonel George Armistead Monument<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Inner Harbor is probably the part of Baltimore you\u2019ll see most in photos, with walking paths, benches, restaurants, museums, and boats everywhere. From the top of Federal Hill, you can see quite a bit of it at once, which makes this a fun place to start your Baltimore sightseeing without spending a dime.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And yes, you have to walk up the hill to get there, but don\u2019t worry, it\u2019s not exactly a mountain! There\u2019s also a path winding around the park, so if you have a stroller or need wheelchair access, you can get to the top without dealing with the stairs.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The park itself is well maintained, with beautiful flowers and a small playground. I\u2019d do this one at the beginning of your trip, especially if it\u2019s your first time in the city. It\u2019s a really nice stop if you\u2019re traveling with the family, but honestly, even if you\u2019re just looking for somewhere peaceful to sit, enjoy the view, and snap some photos, it\u2019s worth coming up here. And if you\u2019re visiting in summer, you might even catch a festival or a movie under the stars.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can combine it with the American Visionary Art Museum or Maryland Science Center, then head back toward the water for lunch or a drink. And did I mention it\u2019s free? Always a win!\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>5. Let loose with glow-in-the-dark splatter art\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Neon Paint Place in Baltimore, Maryland (2)\" class=\"wp-image-255936 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Neon-Paint-Place-in-Baltimore-Maryland-2.webp\"  data-\/>Such a cool thing to do! Photo credit: Neon Paint Place<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Neon Paint Place in Baltimore, Maryland (1)\" class=\"wp-image-255935 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Neon-Paint-Place-in-Baltimore-Maryland-1.webp\"  data-\/>A great way to let out your artistic side. Photo credit: Neon Paint Place<\/p>\n<p>Duration: 1 hour<\/p>\n<p>Time: Multiple times during the day<\/p>\n<p>Highlights: Dance and paint to music, get creative with glow-in-the-dark colors, private group experience<\/p>\n<p>Inclusions: Hazmat Suits, goggles, gloves, art Supplies, glow-in-the-dark materials\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Rating: 4.8 stars (check 110+ reviews here)<\/p>\n<p>Free Cancellation: Yes<\/p>\n<p>Price: Check price here!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re looking for something totally different to do in Baltimore, this private glow-in-the-dark paint experience is definitely worth putting on your radar!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For an hour, you get to make a complete mess with fluorescent paint while listening to music and just having fun. We got disposable suits, gloves, and all the painting gear before heading into the splatter room, lit with black and colorful lights. You can also play your own music if you want to make it a bit more personal.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be warned, it gets messy! We blasted paint all over our canvases, the walls, the ceiling, and each other. We enjoyed being silly and basically acting like kids again. And don\u2019t worry if you\u2019re not artistically inclined, as it\u2019s all about having fun.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The hour was actually perfect, although we somehow finished our canvases before it was over. We ended up buying two more canvases halfway through and kept going, and they just let us pay for the extras at the end.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s a really fun family-friendly experience, especially if you want to spend an hour doing something completely different. Judging by all the five-star reviews, plenty of other people have had just as much fun getting messy here as we did! Just be prepared to get paint EVERYWHERE!<\/p>\n<p>6. See world-class art at The Walters Art Museum\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, Maryland (1)\" class=\"wp-image-255938 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Walters-Art-Museum-in-Baltimore-Maryland-1.webp\"  data-\/>Photo credit: The Walters Art Museum<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255941 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Walters-Art-Museum-in-Baltimore-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/>Photo credit: The Walters Art Museum<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re into art and history, or want to spend a few hours somewhere free, sophisticated, and shaded, The Walters Art Museum is perfect. The museum opened in 1934 and is located in Mount Vernon, one of Baltimore\u2019s prettiest historic neighborhoods. You really don\u2019t need to spend the whole day here, since it\u2019s easy to squeeze in between other stops or pair with a short walk around the area.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inside, you\u2019ll find a bit of everything, from paintings and sculptures to ancient objects, manuscripts, jewelry, and decorative arts. The galleries themselves are pretty impressive too, with beautiful rooms worth seeing before you even get to the artwork.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One place I really liked was the Hackerman House. It\u2019s connected to the main museum, and you can also get in directly from Washington Place. There\u2019s 19th-century art and contemporary ceramics inside, but it\u2019s the marble floating staircase everyone comes for. It leads up to a Tiffany glass ceiling, which was definitely one of my highlights.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The museum is rather large, and if you need help, plenty of employees are scattered throughout to point you in the right direction. We went at 3 pm on a Wednesday, and it wasn\u2019t crowded at all, which made it even nicer to wander around.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I think this museum makes for a lovely break from sightseeing, especially if you\u2019re traveling with the family, as a couple, or even on your own. Plus, it\u2019s free, so you can\u2019t really complain!<\/p>\n<p>7. Feel the rush of skydiving indoors\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"iFLY-Indoor-Skydiving-a-person-indoor-skydiving-in-Baltimore, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255944 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/iFLY-Indoor-Skydiving-a-person-indoor-skydiving-in-Baltimore-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/>Photo credit: iFLY Indoor Skydiving<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"iFLY-Indoor-Skydiving-in-Baltimore, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255945 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/iFLY-Indoor-Skydiving-in-Baltimore-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/>Photo credit: iFLY Indoor Skydiving<\/p>\n<p>Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes<\/p>\n<p>Time: Multiple times during the day<\/p>\n<p>Highlights: Try indoor skydiving, get a flight certificate\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Inclusions: Two flights, training, use of all gear, one-on-one guidance from a certified flight instructor, certificate of flight achievement, all taxes, fees, and handling charges\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Rating: 4.6 stars (check 100+ reviews here)\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Free Cancellation: Yes<\/p>\n<p>Price: Check price here!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For those looking to get their heart racing, this indoor skydiving experience will give you just enough of an adrenaline rush without actually jumping out of a plane! You\u2019ll get two flights inside a vertical wind tunnel, and no, you don\u2019t need any previous experience.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before you get started, there\u2019s a short training session where they explain everything you need to know, so you\u2019ll be ready in no time. Then it\u2019s time to get in the tunnel and fly! And don\u2019t worry, your instructor stays with you the entire time, regardless of your experience level.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You get to fly twice, with each flight lasting 60 seconds, and let me tell you, one minute goes by FAST! If you\u2019re having fun and want to stay in there a little longer, you can add another one-minute flight for an extra $20. At the end, you\u2019ll get a certificate of flight achievement, which is a nice little souvenir to take home.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They offer different times throughout the day, but plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to check in before your reservation. Kids as young as 3 years old can try it, although anyone under 18 will need a parent or guardian to sign their waiver.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We had such a blast doing this! There\u2019s something pretty wild about stepping into the tunnel and suddenly floating through the air, and those 60 seconds go by ridiculously fast. Just wear comfortable clothes and well-fitting, lace-up sneakers or running shoes, and get ready to fly!<\/p>\n<p>8. Walk through history at Fort McHenry<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Fort McHenry, Maryland USA, Baltimore\" class=\"wp-image-255948 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Fort-McHenry-Maryland-USA-Baltimore.webp\"  data-\/>There is so much history here<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"Cannons at Fort McHenry, Maryland USA, Baltimore\" class=\"wp-image-255947 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cannons-at-Fort-McHenry-Maryland-USA-Baltimore.webp\"  data-\/>Check out those cannons!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can\u2019t talk about Baltimore\u2019s history without mentioning Fort McHenry! This waterfront fort played a huge role in one of the country\u2019s most famous stories, but you definitely don\u2019t need to be a history buff to enjoy visiting. Between the old fort, harbor views, and spacious grounds, it\u2019s a fun change of pace from the busier Inner Harbor.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where the Battle of Baltimore took place during the War of 1812, and the events here inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that later became \u201cThe Star-Spangled Banner.\u201d Pretty cool, right?<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Star Fort is the main attraction, but there\u2019s more to see around the site, including the surrounding grounds, waterfront paths, and visitor center. The grounds are also home to cherry trees, so if you\u2019re visiting Baltimore in late March or early April, you may be lucky enough to catch them in bloom!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Park rangers give you background on the fort, and there\u2019s an introductory film before you start exploring. You\u2019ll then have the opportunity to watch the flag change (and maybe assist), which is pretty fun to see and do.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Admission to the fort is currently $15 per person. You can buy your pass online, and keep in mind that they don\u2019t accept cash at the fort. Give yourself some extra time to wander around the grounds afterward, especially if the weather is nice. It\u2019s one of those Baltimore attractions where you get the history without spending the entire visit inside a museum, which we really enjoyed!<\/p>\n<p>Where to Stay in Baltimore\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore in Baltimore, Maryland 1\" class=\"wp-image-255953 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Royal-Sonesta-Harbor-Court-Baltimore-in-Baltimore-Maryland-1.webp\"  data-\/>Photo credit: The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"1200\" alt=\"The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore in Baltimore, Maryland (2)\" class=\"wp-image-255951 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Royal-Sonesta-Harbor-Court-Baltimore-in-Baltimore-Maryland-2.webp\"  data-\/>Photo credit: The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now that you know all the fun things to do, it\u2019s time to figure out where you\u2019re going to stay if you haven\u2019t decided yet. Baltimore is a pretty big city, so choosing the right area can make getting around a lot easier. We\u2019ve picked out a few of our favorite hotels, from budget-friendly stays to more luxurious options, so let\u2019s see what might work for you.\u00a0Just make sure to secure your spot early, because places here book up fast!<\/p>\n<p>The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore \u2013 $$$<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our favorite luxury choice here is The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore, right by the waterfront, so you get pretty amazing views of the Inner Harbor. It\u2019s perfect if you\u2019re into European old-world elegance and local artwork.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ve also got an upscale American gastropub and a European-style caf\u00e9 in the lobby, where you can grab a coffee or fresh pastries before heading out for the day. The highlight is definitely the outdoor rooftop area with a multi-purpose sports court for tennis, basketball, and volleyball, which you don\u2019t usually see in downtown hotels.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The location is also hard to beat. You\u2019re just steps from the National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center, so you can easily walk to some of the main attractions. Price-wise, expect to pay anywhere from around $150 USD to $500+ USD per night, depending on when you visit. Check your dates and book your stay at The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore here!<\/p>\n<p>Staybridge Suites Baltimore \u2013 $$<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want a comfortable place to stay without spending a fortune on a fancy hotel, Staybridge Suites Baltimore is definitely worth checking out. Since it\u2019s an all-suite hotel, you get quite a bit more space for your money, and every suite comes with a kitchen, so you can cook your own meals when you feel like it and save a little on eating out too.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re short on time, you\u2019ll also get a free breakfast buffet every morning, so you can grab something to eat and head out sightseeing. On top of that, there\u2019s a complimentary evening social with light dinner bites, wine, and beer. You also get access to free laundry facilities, which parents with children will especially appreciate if you\u2019re staying for more than a few days.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From here, the Inner Harbor waterfront is just two blocks away, so you\u2019re pretty much close to everything. Prices start at around $140 USD per night. See current rates and lock in your dates here!<\/p>\n<p>Hampton Inn &amp; Suites Baltimore \u2013 $<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re looking to save even more, Hampton Inn &amp; Suites Baltimore is a great option. It\u2019s right downtown, affordable, and you even get a little bit of history with your stay. The hotel sits on the site of a historic bank property dating back to 1906. You can even see the original bank vaults- pretty cool, right?<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You also get free breakfast, an indoor pool, a gym, and spacious rooms, plus you\u2019re just a short walk from major attractions like the National Aquarium and the Baltimore Convention Center. There\u2019s also a convenience store on-site if you need something and don\u2019t feel like heading back out.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With prices starting at around $95 USD per night, we think it\u2019s a pretty good deal for the location and everything you get with your stay. Check availability and book your stay at Hampton Inn &amp; Suites Baltimore here!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Want more options? Browse through all the listings for Baltimore here!<\/p>\n<p>Renting a Car in the USA<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" alt=\"Car rental photo for the United States\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-210720 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Car-rental-photo-for-the-United-States-1.jpg\"  data-\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading167258_44da95-a9 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading167258_44da95-a9\">The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country\u2019s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.<\/p>\n<p>We always book with Discover Cars and can\u2019t recommend them enough. It\u2019s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.<\/p>\n<p>Tips for Renting a Car in the USA<\/p>\n<p>Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver\u2019s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!<\/p>\n<p>Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you\u2019ll be driving in.<\/p>\n<p>Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.<\/p>\n<p>Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it\u2019s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.<\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading167258_ea4c9f-8a wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading167258_ea4c9f-8a\">What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA<\/p>\n<p>A valid driver\u2019s license from your home country.<\/p>\n<p>An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it\u2019s best to check in advance.<\/p>\n<p>A credit card in the driver\u2019s name is typically required for the security deposit.<\/p>\n<p>Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.<\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading167258_b80b89-09 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading167258_b80b89-09\">Ready to hit the road and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms?<\/p>\n<p>AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code \u201cDTRAVEL15\u201d<\/p>\n<p>What\u2019s an eSIM? <\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading43929_f443ad-e8 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading43929_f443ad-e8\">An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you\u2019re visiting \u2014 no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.<\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading43929_7a3e9a-b9 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading43929_7a3e9a-b9\">In simple terms, it\u2019s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.<\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading43929_62b08a-18 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading43929_62b08a-18\">We\u2019ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we\u2019ve found our favorite \u2014 Airalo. It\u2019s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.<\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading43929_8d7238-c9 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading43929_8d7238-c9\">\ud83d\udca1 Bonus: We\u2019ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:<\/p>\n<p>Thanks for reading!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" alt=\"Daniel-and-Bailey-drink-craft-beer-in Baltimore, Maryland\" class=\"wp-image-255960 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Daniel-and-Bailey-drink-craft-beer-in-Baltimore-Maryland.webp\"  data-\/>Thanks for reading!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"> Baltimore is one of those cities where you can start the day surrounded by centuries of history and somehow end it covered in fluorescent paint! We had such a fun time discovering all the different sides of the city, whether we were eating our way around Fells Point, watching dolphins at the aquarium, flying through a wind tunnel, or simply enjoying the harbor views. And, of course, no trip here would be complete without at least one Maryland crab cake!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more ideas around the country, check out our other USA blogs, where we share plenty of firsthand tips and experiences from our travels. Or stick around and keep planning with a few more of our favorite guides below!<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Where to Stay on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: 3 Best Areas &amp; Hotels<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Where to Stay in Nashville, Tennessee: 4 Best Areas &amp; Hotels<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Where to Stay in Denver, Colorado: 4 Best Areas &amp; Hotels<\/p>\n<p>The Services We Recommend<\/p>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading170895_c040bb-6e wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading170895_c040bb-6e\">From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore with confidence.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Planning a trip to Baltimore and wondering what to do? You\u2019re in the right place! Baltimore is best known for its maritime history and iconic Maryland blue crabs, but the city has much more to offer than the harbor. This independent seaport city is known for its many firsts, hip neighborhoods, baseball games, scenic views,<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":44554,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[20],"tags":[3531,3529,3527,3530,3528],"class_list":["post-44553","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-maryland","tag-maryland","tag-maryland-dining","tag-maryland-food","tag-maryland-grocery-stores","tag-maryland-restaurants"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/vive.im\/@dc\/117393284422994437","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44553","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=44553"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44553\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/44554"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=44553"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=44553"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.diningandcooking.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=44553"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}