Weekend in Baltimore: Top 10 Places to Visit + Itinerary

Baltimore, also affectionately referred to as Charm City, offers a whirlwind of historic tradition, stunning waterfront, and eclectic neighborhoods begging for a deeper look.

This guide offers one thoughtfully crafted three-day itinerary that highlights top attractions, essential landmarks, and delightful dining options to spend a weekend in Baltimore.

From taking leisurely strolls around Inner Harbor to soaking in the culture in every area of this city to day-tripping out into the country, there is something for everyone.

Prepare to discover the ultimate Baltimore and make the most of your weekend escape to this beautiful city!

Key Takeaways

• Explore Inner Harbor: The heart of Baltimore, featuring top attractions and scenic waterfront views.
• Visit Fort McHenry: A key historic site where the national anthem was born.
• Tour Camden Yards: Experience one of baseball’s most beloved stadiums.
• Dine at Iconic Restaurants: Enjoy Baltimore’s best dining spots, from seafood at Jimmy’s to vegan delights at Red Emma’s.
• Discover Local Culture: From Poe’s house to the Bromo Seltzer Arts Clock Tower, immerse yourself in Baltimore’s rich cultural scene.

Overview and History of the City

From great history to lively neighborhoods, Baltimore is now considered a city with cultural attractions galore and historic monuments. Founded in the year 1729, Baltimore has served as an important part of American history, moving from a big port city to evolve into one of the urban centers.

Ranging from historical attractions to modern facilities, Baltimore is going to be an excellent choice for a weekend escape in 2024 since it stands at the perfect combination of cultural experiences and water-front activities.

Top Places to Visit

1. Inner Harbor

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the crowning jewel that mixes history, culture, and entertainment together in the city. This waterfront district is highly energetic, with a number of popular attractions that draw visitors down to this area: the National Aquarium to witness the variety of life that goes on underwater and the Maryland Science Center. The Inner Harbor is also a dining and shopping center with restaurants offering great views and a range of different cuisines. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, a boat tour, or historic ships like the USS Constellation for an unparalleled experience that all visitors will love, whatever their age may be.

2. Bromo Seltzer Arts Clock Tower

The Bromo Seltzer Arts Clock Tower is not only a place for cultural enrichment but also an otherworldly view over Baltimore. Since 1911, this famous tower hosted the company of Emerson Bromo-Seltzer but has recently been transferred to active art. You will be able to tour the tower, artist studios, and even find you way up to the clock room and get face-to-face with the huge clock faces. The tower is also famous for its very special art exhibitions and events. A must-visit spot for those fond of the great artistic heritage and industrial past of Baltimore.

3. Fort McHenry

Fort McHenry is a national monument and historic shrine, better known as the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem entitled “The Star-Spangled Banner.” During the War of 1812, it successfully defended Baltimore Harbor against the British invasion. The event had inspired Francis Scott Key in writing the famous lyrics. Nowadays, Fort McHenry invites visitors to a time-travel experience in exploring ramparts, cannons, and barracks that is well-preserved. The few educational exhibits and short film round out the fort’s history nicely. A visit here offers not only an immersion into American history but also scenic views of the Patapsco River.

4. Camden Yards

Oriole Park at Camden Yards is the most beloved of all Major League Baseball stadiums, combining the best qualities of old-time baseball parks with state-of-the-art amenities. Only a few blocks from the Inner Harbor, Camden Yards is home to the Baltimore Orioles and a must-see for a genuine baseball experience. If you aren’t going to catch a game, the design of the stadium and the atmosphere alone are worth seeing. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the park, visit the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum nearby, and snack on the great ballpark fare that has made Camden Yards famous. 

Further reading: 10 Best Restaurants Near Oriole Park at Camden Yards

5. Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum

Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum is the humble rowhouse where the famous American author lived between 1833 and 1835. This historic site gives insight into the early life and works of the great poet. Inside, there are exhibits of personal items, letters, and first editions of his works that enlighten the mind of this genius. This museum will also contain information about the Baltimore connection, how Poe started his career there and died under mysterious circumstances. This would be a huge attraction for literature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the macabre, since this provides an insider’s look into one of America’s most iconic yet mysterious writers.

Where to Eat in Baltimore?

Baltimore’s culinary scene is just as vibrant as its cultural landscape, presenting a wide range of dining options that cater to various tastes, from upscale restaurants to casual ones.

1. Jimmy’s Famous Seafood

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood is a Baltimore restaurant for fresh seafood on a plate full of energy. Just a few minutes from downtown, the local family-owned institution has been serving up Maryland-style seafood since 1974. From their award-winning crab cakes to the fresh oysters, creative seafood platters, and some of the best Maryland-style seafood, they have it all.  Jimmy’s Famous Seafood should be on the bucket list of every seafood lover.

2. Ale Mary’s

Ale Mary’s is a much-cherished neighborhood gastropub situated in the heart of Baltimore’s Fells Point. Cozy, if not a bit boxy, this little home away from home warmly embraces the pleasing promise of comfort foods and craft beers. At Ale Mary’s, the menu runs the gamut from signature tater tots-smothered in everything from crab dip to pulled pork to classic burgers and wings. Their big beer list fills with rotating local and international brews, making this spot top-notch for any beer enthusiast. Whether you are in the mood for a casual meal or night with friends, Ale Mary’s does it all.

3. HomeSlyce Pizza

HomeSlyce Pizza is a local place serving up creative, delicious pies.  It has locations across Baltimore, and HomeSlyce has become so famous for serving unique topping options for pizzas, especially with the popular “HomeSlyce Grand Classic” pizza. Appetizers, salads, and wings all heed high-quality ingredients in their making. Laid-back and friendly is what this place is, ideal for casual dining with friends or family. Pair that up with a selection of their many beers to round off the meal!

Further reading: Student Discount in Baltimore: 20% Off Pizza Every Day!

4. Cazbar Restaurant

Cazbar Restaurant brings the flavors of rich Turkish cuisine. Renowned for authentic dishes, Cazbar offers an enormous menu comprising a selection of various kebabs, mezes, small plates, and traditional Turkish delicacies like lamb shank and moussaka. Yet, with the alive and radiant decor coupled with live belly dancing, this eatery pushes one into the midst of an ethnically laced dinner. Whether dining with friends or on an intimate night out, Cazbar will continue to retain its status as one of Baltimore’s most active restaurants due to its unbeatable cuisine paired with entertainment.

5. Red Emma’s

Red Emma’s is a Baltimore standby that melds great food with a commitment to social justice and community. In Baltimore’s Station North Arts District, Red Emma’s menu focuses on vegan, vegetarian, and locally sourced ingredients. Hearty breakfast bowls and sandwiches, creative salads, and housemade pastries round out the offerings at the café to suit many tastes. Events like book readings and discussions on social issues make this space a community hub. Red Emma’s is ideal for those seeking to combine a great meal with supporting a socially conscious, inclusive venue.

Tips for Navigating Baltimore

Baltimore has varied ways of transportation, making traveling around town pretty smooth. Public transportation, such as buses and light rail systems, will help the visitor get to most of the hot spots around town. Ride-sharing and taxis are also widely available. Keep in mind general safety information, especially concerning nightlife hotspots.

Knowing the routes and timings of transit will help make the journey smooth. Online resources and mobile apps allow visitors to track arrivals of buses and trains to ensure that waiting time is reduced.

Of course, it is also advisable to confirm operating hours in advance – these can be shorter on weekends and holidays – and take night journeys through well-lit areas using reputable services to add to personal safety.

Itinerary for a Weekend in Baltimore

Day 1: Friday Evening

• Arrive in Baltimore: Settle into your hotel and freshen up.
• Dinner at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood: Kick off your weekend with a delicious seafood dinner at this Baltimore staple.
• Stroll Along the Inner Harbor: Take an evening walk along the scenic Inner Harbor, enjoy the waterfront views, and get a feel for the city.

Day 2: Saturday

• Morning:
  • Visit Fort McHenry: Start your day with a visit to this historic site. Explore the fort and learn about its significance in American history.
  • Explore the Inner Harbor: Head back to the Inner Harbor to visit attractions like the National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center.
• Lunch:
  • Grab a Bite at Ale Mary’s: Enjoy a hearty lunch with local craft beer in the cozy atmosphere of this Fells Point gastropub.
• Afternoon:
  • Tour Camden Yards: Take a guided tour of Oriole Park at Camden Yards, one of MLB’s most iconic stadiums. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum.
  • Visit the Bromo Seltzer Arts Clock Tower: Explore the artist studios and climb to the top of the clock tower for a panoramic view of Baltimore.
• Evening:
  • Dinner at HomeSlyce Pizza: Relax with a casual dinner of creative and delicious pizza at HomeSlyce.
  • Explore Baltimore’s Nightlife: Head to nearby bars or lounges to experience Baltimore’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 3: Sunday

• Morning:
  • Visit the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum: Start your final day with a tour of the famous author’s former residence. Learn about his life and works in this intimate museum.
  • Brunch at Cazbar Restaurant: Enjoy a Turkish brunch in Mount Vernon and soak in the restaurant’s lively atmosphere.
• Afternoon:
  • Explore Fells Point: Spend your afternoon wandering through the historic streets of Fells Point. Visit local shops, and cafes, and enjoy the waterfront views.
• Evening:
  • Dinner at Red Emma’s: End your weekend with a socially conscious dining experience at Red Emma’s. Enjoy vegan and vegetarian dishes in a unique café and bookstore setting.
  • Depart from Baltimore: Head back to your hotel, pack up, and prepare for your departure.

Conclusion

A weekend in Baltimore is just the right mix of history, culture, and food. Enjoying Inner Harbor, Fort McHenry, or eating all the diverse foods Baltimore has to offer, will be an assurance to the soul in the busy city. Whether you’re interested in history or in foods, or just looking for a weekend getaway, the memories of the hospitality and charm of Baltimore will be cherished for years to come!

Frequently Asked Questions