10 Best Things to Do in Baltimore
National Aquarium
The National Aquarium is home to about 12,000 animals from all over the world. Notable exhibits include the 270,000-gallon Blacktip Reef, Dolphin Discovery, 150-animal touch pool, and 225,000-gallon Shark Alley. Several tours and experiences are offered. Tickets are $39.95 for youths and seniors, $49.95 for adults, and children under 4 are free. Discounted parking rates are available at nearby parking garages. The hours can change, so check the website calendar before you go.
Sunday - Monday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm
Friday - Saturday: 9 am - 8 pm
Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Located in the heart of downtown, Camden Yards is worth visiting, even if you aren't a huge baseball fan. The retro-inspired stadium has a comfortable feel with a fun vibe. There are plenty of mouth-watering food and drink options. You can watch a game, walk the Hall of Fame, visit the museum, and take the 90-minute stadium tour. Game ticket prices vary based on the day, time, and teams playing.
American Visionary Art Museum
Experience one of the most unique museums in America at Baltimore's American Visionary Art Museum. Leave all of your preconceived notions about museums at the door. Here, you will experience art that blends with science, humor, and out-of-the-box ideas. Many of the artists are self-taught and use non-traditional materials to create their art. You can also visit Sideshow, the museum gift shop. The museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm, Wednesday through Sunday. You need to purchase a timed ticket online in advance. Tickets range in price from $9.95 to $15.95.
George Peabody Library
This impressive museum is part of Johns Hopkins University. Established in 1878, it is home to over 300,000 books. The collection includes several first editions and rare books. Unlike many other libraries, you cannot check books out and take them home. So plan to spend some time in the library reading. Even if you don't plan to read, the building's architecture is worth seeing. It's one of the most beautiful libraries in the country. It is five levels with cast iron balcony railings, gold columns, and a white and black marble floor. The library is open Sunday through Thursday.
Fells Point
Walk through this historic waterfront district and experience local culture. As one of the oldest neighborhoods, it's full of history, restaurants, and shopping. See the oldest residence in Baltimore, the Robert Long House. Browse artisanal delicacies at the Broadway Market. This indoor market was built in 1786. Sip a cocktail at The Horse You Came In On. It's rumored to be the last bar Edgar Allen Poe visited before his death. Several festivals and events, such as the 4th of July celebration or the Christmas Village, occur throughout the year.
Sagamore Spirit Distillery
Enjoy the flavors of Baltimore at the Sagamore Spirit Distillery. The craft spirit lineup includes several types of rye whiskey. Locally grown ingredients are used, helping to support the local community. Water from a 1909 Spring House is used for the purest flavor. Several experiences are available, including tours, tastings, and cocktail classes. If whiskey isn't your thing, the distillery also creates a lineup of canned cocktails that will delight the senses. If you don't have time for the tour and tasting, you could visit the Nineteen O' Nine Whiskey Bar located on the five-acre property.
Baltimore Yacht Basin
Baltimore is a coastal town, making it possible to visit by water. The Baltimore Yacht Basin offers a smooth docking experience with plenty of convenient slips. With its Limited Wake Zone, you will find docking at this marina to be one of the smoothest docking experiences in Downtown Baltimore.
You won't have to contend with the extensive wake zones located throughout the inner harbor. Four long-term slip piers can accommodate boats up to 60 feet. There are also two docking piers for short-term docking. Rates vary based on boat length and time in dockage. However, temporary docking is complimentary if you dine at Nick's Fish House. Amenities at the marina include free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a bath house. There is a shuttle service available for transportation to nearby bars, restaurants, and attractions.
West Covington Park
What was once a neglected industrial space is now a beautiful park. Completed in 2015, Ayers Saint Gross is the genius landscape architect behind this community-use green area. The park is 12.2 acres and is located right on the harbor. The park was designed to be a conservation area fostering local flora and fauna. You'll find walking trails, a pier, educational signage, and native wildlife habitats. Events take place throughout the year that you can purchase tickets for.
M&T Bank Stadium
Purchase tickets to a Baltimore Ravens game and see the M&T Bank Stadium. Built in 1998, construction cost $220 million. This impressive stadium has a capacity of 71,008. There are 128 suites and 8,196 club seats. Drink and dining options are plentiful, with 16 lower and 44 upper concourse concession stands. Visit the Club Level, and you can experience the history of the Baltimore Ravens football team. Tours are also available for a behind-the-scenes look at the Ravens and the stadium.
Top Golf
Enjoy an evening with friends, family, or colleagues at Top Golf Baltimore. There's no need to walk the green with the three floors of over 90 all-weather bays. Choose your game, and you are ready to test your swing. The rooftop terrace with fire pits is another great place for socializing. The on-site bar and kitchen offer plenty of dining options to please everyone. Walk-ins are welcome, but there can be a wait. It's best to book online in advance.