Hello fellow adventurers! It’s Nasiba.
A few weeks ago I wrote about how much I hate encountering couples looking all lovey-dovey when I’m traveling.
As if I said I love seeing them, the universe decided, you know what Nasiba, you have not seen the end of it. Tell me why I witnessed a whole proposal in Baltimore. And it was so beautiful, I almost cried as if I was the one being proposed to. Lol.
That proposal melted the hearts of all that were present.
It happened at night at Fells Point. The man had invited all their friends for the trip. It was supposed to be just a normal trip. But the friends were in on it. The girl had no idea.
They closed a street, and out of nowhere, a performer appeared with a band playing, ‘Marry You’ by Bruno Mars. The street lights were paid actors because they set the mood for the romantic moment and it was chef’s kiss.
Anyway, here are things I did in Baltimore to keep my mind from thinking about that proposal.
Baltimore is a city in Maryland.
It is located on the banks of the Chesapeake Bay and lies as the state’s largest seaport and commercial center.
The city’s history is always kept at young heart through its iconic sites.
It is a charming melting pot that welcomes you with open arms, ready to help you explore all it has to offer.
Notably, Baltimore is home to major attractions that helped shape the history of the United States.
Here is a comprehensive list of 33 fun things to do in Baltimore to help you plan your vacation.
One of these attraction sites is Fort McHenry, considered the birthplace of the United States national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner”.
Things to Do in Baltimore:
1. The Walters Art Museum
Rating: 4.8★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 600 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201
- It was founded in 1934
- It opens from Wednesday to Sunday
Why you should go: One of Baltimore’s most popular attraction sites is The Walters Art Museum which is a public art museum.
It is located in the city’s downtown area in Mount Vernon-Belvedere, a cultural district that is also a National Historic Landmark.
The collection was started by a father and son, William Walters and Henry Walters.
Things to do: Visit the Walters Art Museum to see the massive collection of art and sculptures showcased through over 22,000 pieces.
The collection consists of pieces collected from the 19th century by William Waters.
He started collecting art and sculptures in Paris where he moved after the Civil War broke out.
To date, the museum remains one of the top free things to do in Baltimore.
- It is 19 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
2. The Maryland Zoo
Rating: 4.4★
Entry tickets: Adults: $26, Seniors: $23, Children (2-11): $22
Address: 1 Safari Pl, Baltimore, MD 21217
- It was opened in 1876
- It opens from Monday to Sunday
Why you should go: Also known as the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, this is one of the best places to visit for families with children.
The animal-rich zoo will make you feel like you have been transported to Africa and are walking in the savannah.
It has five exhibits classified according to climatic zones.
Things to do: If you are wondering where you should visit as a family, the Maryland Zoo is the answer you’ve been seeking.
You will love exploring the various exhibits and seeing animals from different parts of the world including those that are specific to Maryland.
Notably, the zoo has over 1,500 animals representing over 200 species.
- It is 26 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
3. National Aquarium
Rating: 4.6★
Entry tickets: Adults: $39.95, Children: $24.95, Seniors: $34.95
Address: 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
- It was opened in 1981
- It opens from Monday to Sunday
Why you should go: Back in 1981, Baltimore set out an urban renewal program that was meant to improve the face of the city and geared toward development.
The National Aquarium was part of this project.
It is located on East Pratt Street and is home to over 17,000 representing over 750 species.
Things to do: The National Aquarium offers daily guided tours and programs such as Sea and Tea, Dine and Discover, Shark Behind The Scenes Tour, and Insider’s Tour.
During these tours, you will be taken through several themed exhibits that are sectioned according to the different habitats.
It is an exciting attraction to visit with your children.
- It is 18 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
4. The American Visionary Art Museum
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Adults: $15.95, Seniors: $13.95, Children/Students: $9.95, Children 6 and below: Free, Members: Free
Address: 800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230
- It was founded in 1995
- It opens from Wednesday to Sunday
Why you should go: The American Visionary Art Museum is a unique facility that showcases a genre of art known as outsider art or intuitive art.
If you are familiar with this genre or want to know what it is, you should check out the museum.
It is located in the Federal Hill neighborhood along the shores of the Inner Harbor.
Things to do: Explore an art collection of over 4,000 pieces hosted in the 67,000 square feet space in permanent exhibits.
In addition, visiting the museum will give the opportunity to explore other attractions located within the grounds like the Wildflower Garden, Jim Rouse Visionary Center, and the Tall Sculpture Barn.
- It is 17 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
5. Maryland Science Center
Rating: 4.4★
Entry tickets: Adults: $25.95, Children (3-12): $19.95, Seniors: $24.95, members: Free, plus $5 for IMAX
Address: 601 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21230
- It was opened in 1976
- It opens from Wednesday to Sunday
Why you should go: Inner Harbor in Baltimore is home to many attractions and one of them is the Maryland Science Center.
The center was established to encourage the public especially young people to embrace science and teach them the role that science plays in today’s world.
Notably, the center is one of the best things to do in Baltimore with children this weekend.
Things to do: Want to explore the study of science interactively and entertainingly, then check out the Maryland Science Center.
Its biggest draw includes the permanent and temporary exhibitions, the Ramsey Observatory, and the IMAX theater.
All its attractions are designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages.
- It is 17 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
6. Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Adults: $15, Children (3-14): $10, Seniors: $10
Address: 333 W Camden St, Baltimore, MD 21201
- It was opened in 1992
- It has a capacity of 45,971
Why you should go: Oriole Park at Camden Yards is the official home field of the Baltimore Orioles, a professional baseball team.
The stadium was established to replace Memorial Stadium, becoming the first “retro” major league ballpark of the 1990s and early 2000s.
If you love baseball, you should have the stadium on your list of exciting things to do in Baltimore.
Things to do: Visit Oriole Park at Camden Yards to watch a live match or take a public tour of the facility.
The stadium offers daily public tours and private group tours during hours when there is no ongoing match.
Some of the places you will visit include the dugout, the suite level, and the press level.
- It is 15 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
7. B&O Railroad Museum
Rating: 4.6★
Entry tickets: Adults $20, Seniors: $17, Students: $15, Children (2-12): $12
Address: 901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223
- It was opened in 1953
- It opens from Monday to Sunday
Why you should go: The B&O Railroad Museum is one of the attractions located along Baltimore’s Inner harbor.
It sits on West Pratt Street and exhibits significant collections of historic railroad equipment, making it home to one of the biggest railroad treasures in the world.
The museum was previously called the Baltimore & Ohio Transportation Museum.
Things to do: Railroads are interesting because they tell a very significant part of history that has made development possible.
It is amazing to see how development has evolved, and the B&O Railroad Museum will show you exactly how.
In addition, the museum offers interesting children’s programs and activities like the Kids Zone and Toddler Time.
- It is 17 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
8. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Adults: $15, Children 15 and below: Free
Address: 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230
- It was established in 1925
- It opens from Monday to Sunday
Why you should go: Fort McHenry is a significant place in America’s history.
Firstly, it played a big role in the 1812 War by defending Baltimore Harbor from attack by the British Navy.
As a result, the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine was established to commemorate this historic moment.
Secondly, the historic site is known as the Birthplace of America’s National Anthem, written by Francis Scott Key after winning the battle.
Things to do: Visit the attraction site to pay your tribute to the American soldiers who fought in the 1812 War.
The fact that this site played a significant role in making America what it is today is enough reason for anyone to visit.
- It is 18 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
9. Fells Point
Rating: 4.5★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 1738 Thames St, Baltimore, MD 21231
- It is a famous neighborhood
- It is a National Historic Place
Why you should go: In 1726, a ship-building company was founded here by an Englishman called Mr. Fell.
He would later become a renowned figure for his “Baltimore Schooners”.
It is for him that Fells point is named.
This is a waterfront neighborhood with a rich history that boasts over 300 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Things to do: If you are to explore one place in Baltimore, let it be Fells Point.
As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Baltimore, it is dotted with beautiful buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Furthermore, you will find restaurants, shops, and notable attractions like the Baltimore Farmers’ Market.
Fells Point is one of the best things to do near Baltimore.
- It is 22 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
10. Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Rating: 4.5★
Entry tickets: $19.95 per person, Children 1 and below: Free, Members: Free
Address: 35 Market Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202
- It is located inside the Fish Market building
- It opens from Wednesday to Sunday
Why you should go: The Port Discovery Children’s Museum is one of the top children’s museums in the country and offers three floors of interactive discovery.
It was established for parents who want to introduce their children to imaginative learning and play.
In addition, you will get the opportunity to spend time with your children and observe their interests.
Things to do: If you are looking for places in Baltimore where your children will learn and at the same time make fun memories, you should check out the Port Discovery Children’s Museum.
It offers interactive programs suitable for children and some that are suitable for both children and parents to engage in.
- It is 20 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
11. Urban Pirates
Rating: 4.6★
Entry tickets: $25 per person above 3 years, Children under 3: $14
Address: 911 S Ann St, Baltimore, MD 21231
- It is a boat tour agency
- It operates from Friday to Sunday
Why you should go: Urban Pirates offers an experience like no other as you embark on an interactive sailing adventure.
It is located on Anne Street Pier on Inner Harbor and offers pirate sailing trips to individuals and families that are looking for a thrilling adventure.
Things to do: Explore Inner Harbour aboard a pirate ship as the crew members teach you all about pirates and how you can lead the life of a pirate.
In addition, you will be taught how to sing, dance, and talk like a pirate during this unique and memorable adventure.
If you are young or young at heart, then you probably want to have Urban Pirates on your itinerary of things to do in Baltimore.
- It is 24 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
12. Baltimore Museum Of Art
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD 21218
- It was founded in 1914
- It opens from Wednesday to Sunday
Why you should go: The Baltimore Museum of Art was established to connect Baltimore to the world through art.
It is located near Johns Hopkins University and hosts over 90,000 pieces comprising modern art and art from the 19th century.
Today, the museum is housed in a 1929 Roman temple-style building.
Things to do: Explore the museum’s art collection which includes notable pieces from the Cone sisters, who were world travelers, socialites, and art collectors.
Dubbed the Cone Collection, the pieces include artwork by Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Paul Gauguin, and Edgar Degas.
Furthermore, there are concerts held here often at the sculpture garden.
- It is 26 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
13. Clavel
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 225 W 23rd St, Baltimore, MD 21211
- It is a Mexican restaurant
- It is open from Monday to Saturday
Why you should go: If you love Mexican food, then you are in for a delicious treat at Clavel.
It is a cheerful restaurant that serves Mexican cuisine inside its vibrant space decorated to create a festive atmosphere.
The ambiance reflects the Mexican culture, which is very cheerful and delightful.
And the food is as amazing as the people.
Everyone from staff to the crowd is very friendly and welcoming.
Things to do: After a long day exploring Baltimore, you want to enjoy your dinner in a place that feels like home.
That place is none other than Clavel.
The good vibes spread by everyone will make you feel like you are part of the team.
And even if you have never tried Mexican cuisine, you will enjoy trying it out here for the first time.
- It is 23 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
14. Baltimore Basilica
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 409 Cathedral St, Baltimore, MD 21201
- It was opened in 1821
- It opens from Monday to Sunday
Why you should go: If you are interested in religion or are simply fascinated by historical architecture, you should visit the Baltimore Basilica.
It is the inaugural cathedral in the United States and is also known as The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
It is an architectural masterpiece that boasts a neoclassical style.
Things to do: Visit the Baltimore Basilica if you are religious and would like to pray or meditate.
Furthermore, it is also open to individuals and groups that want to take a tour of the facility to learn its history and marvel at its architectural beauty.
It is free to explore, thus you won’t lose anything by checking it out.
The architecture is all worth it!
- It is 19 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
15. Reginald F. Lewis Museum
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Adults: $12, Seniors: $9, Children (7-17): $9, Children 6 and below: Free, Veterans/Military: $9
Address: 830 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
- It was opened in 2005
- It opens from Thursday to Monday
Why you should go: The African American community in the state of Maryland is quite significant and because of this, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum was established to celebrate its history and culture.
It is located in downtown Baltimore and offers the public an opportunity to learn and improve their knowledge of African American culture.
Things to do: There are both permanent and temporary exhibits that tell the stories of African Americans.
Some of the things you will learn at the museum are slavery, resistance to bondage, and the Civil Rights Movement.
The museum is one of the top things to do in Baltimore with children because it will teach them about race from an early age.
- It is 19 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
16. Baltimore Museum of Industry
Rating: 4.6★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 1415 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230
- It was founded in 1977
- It opens from Thursday to Saturday
Why you should go: The Baltimore Museum of Industry is dedicated to manufacturing and industry by exploring Maryland’s industrial legacy.
The museum was established to research and show how manufacturing and industry have fueled innovation in Maryland.
If the industrial sector is something that interests you, then this attraction will spark your interest.
Things to do: Explore various exhibitions to understand how Maryland’s industry has been impacted over the years since the beginning of the 20th century.
In addition, there are educational programs that teach visitors about the people who have shaped Baltimore, including how they’ve done it and those that are actively involved in shaping the future of the State.
- It is 16 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
17. Historic Ships in Baltimore
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Adults: $19.95, Seniors: $17.95, Students: $17.95, Children (6-14): $7.95
Address: 301 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
- It was launched in 1854
- It opens from Thursday to Monday
Why you should go: Historic Ships in Baltimore is a maritime museum that’s home to four museum ships and a lighthouse.
Located at Inner Harbor on East Pratt Street, the museum is home to the following museum ships; the USCGC Taney, USS Torsk, USS Constellation, and the Chesapeake.
These were all warships built by the United States Navy.
Things to do: The museum offers guided tours to groups and individuals who want to experience life aboard a warship back in the day.
Some of these tours are the Overnight Adventure, Ship as a Machine, and the Powder Monkey Tour.
Historic Ships in Baltimore is a National Historic Place and sits only 3 minutes away from the Baltimore Aquarium.
- It is 17 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
18. Ida B’s Table
Rating: 4.4★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 235 Holliday St, Baltimore, MD 21202
- It is a soul food restaurant
- It opens from Monday to Friday
Why you should go: Ida B was an African American journalist and activist from the 19th century, greatly remembered for leading an anti-lynching crusade in the United States.
She is also remembered because of her fight for women’s right to vote.
Ida B’s Table is named after her to preserve her honor and legacy.
Things to do: To navigate the changing world, the restaurant is currently taking catering orders for individuals and groups who have upcoming events.
Owing to its unmatched culinary history, the restaurant is the ideal partner for anyone who wants to celebrate a milestone and get some soul food prepared with meaning and love.
It is one of the best restaurants in Baltimore and you will not regret getting their food.
- It is 21 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
19. Patterson Park
Rating: 4.5★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: Patterson Park, 2601 E. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21224
- It was built in 1827
- It is 137 acres big
Why you should go: Patterson Park sits on what was once a military base used by soldiers to train in preparation for the War of 1812.
It is the oldest park in Baltimore and is surrounded by a lovely neighborhood of the same name comprising of homes, buildings, shops, and restaurants.
Of note, the park is named for William Patterson, a Baltimore businessman.
Things to do: Patterson is one of the fun things to do in Baltimore as a family.
It boasts open fields of grass, an ice skating rink, a swimming pool, paved walkways, playgrounds, historic battle sites, and a lake.
You can spend the day here enjoying a picnic alone or with loved ones.
- It is 24 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
20. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall
Rating: 4.8★
Entry tickets: $15 per vehicle
Address: 1212 Cathedral St, Baltimore, MD 21201
- It was opened in 1982
- It is named for Joseph Meyerhoff
Why you should go: The Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall is a music hall in the Mount Vernon neighborhood that is the home of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.
It is named for Joseph Meyerhoff, a Ukrainian-Jewish businessman from Baltimore who also served as the president of the Baltimore Symphony.
It counts as one of the most entertaining things to do near Baltimore.
Things to do: Set aside at least two hours from your schedule to watch a performance by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra here at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall.
It is a mind-blowing performance that will make some of your most beautiful memories in Baltimore.
In addition, the hall is also open for public and private tours to anyone who wants to learn the history of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.
- It is 21 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
21. Costas Inn
Rating: 4.4★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 4100 North Point Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21222
- It was opened in 1971
- It is a seafood restaurant
Why you should go: Costas Inn prides itself as the best seafood restaurant in Baltimore.
It is renowned for its famous crabs and as a result, has been featured in several TV shows.
Because of this, over the years, the restaurant has attracted a huge number of people from Maryland and other parts of the country.
People come here for the crabs and stay for the variety of delicious seafood cuisine on the menu.
Things to do: You need a place to eat during your time in Baltimore, and what better place than Costas Inn.
If you are a fan of seafood, you must try their crabs and other delicacies on the menu.
You will not regret it!
- It is 25 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
22. Sherwood Gardens
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 4310 Underwood Rd, Baltimore, MD 21218
- It opens from Monday to Sunday
- It covers 6 acres of land
Why you should go: This is one of the most beautiful places in Baltimore where you can unwind and enjoy a quiet day outdoors.
Sherwood Gardens were founded in the 1920s by a local gardener, John W. Sherwood.
He is responsible for planting most of the trees that are spread across the gardens.
It is a beautiful attraction to visit throughout the year but truly comes to life in May when the flowers blossom and fill the gardens with color.
Things to do: On days when you want to relax and soak up the beauty of nature, visit Sherwood Gardens for tranquility.
The gardens boast over 80,000 tulips, azaleas, cherries, and other flowers.
Apart from the beautiful landscape, you will enjoy smelling pleasing natural fragrances of the flowers.
- It is 32 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
23. The Brewer’s Art
Rating: 4.6★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 1106 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201
- It is open from Monday to Sunday
- It was opened in 1996
Why you should go: The Brewer’s Art is a brewpub that serves well-crafted beers and delicious food in a unique and relaxing ambiance.
It is located in the Mount Vernon neighborhood in a historic mansion that was designed by Wyatt and Nolting.
The joint is beloved by both locals and visitors.
Things to do: If you need a spot where you can enjoy a lovely and chill night as you eat some delicious food and later drink a good beer, then you should check out the Brewer’s Art.
It is one of the best brewpubs and diners in the city.
The joint offers visitors good food, drinks, and an even better atmosphere suitable for a relaxed night out.
- It is 23 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
24. Jewish Museum of Maryland
Rating: 4.7★
Entry tickets: $1 per person, Members: Free
Address: 15 Lloyd St, Baltimore, MD 21202
- It was founded in 1879
- It opens from Sunday to Wednesday
Why you should go: Baltimore is decorated with museums that are aimed at telling and showcasing its history.
One of them is the Jewish Museum of Maryland established to tell the story of the American Jewish experience in Baltimore and Maryland.
Furthermore, it is one of the leading American museums that showcase Jewish history and culture.
Things to do: If you are a history buff, you should have the Jewish Museum of Maryland as one of the top things to do in Baltimore.
It has exhibits and galleries that host collections like art pieces, historical photographs, documents, audio recordings, rare books, Jewish ceremonial arts, and memorabilia.
Additionally, it has two historic synagogues that are the only ones of their type in the country.
- It is 22 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
25. Top of the World Observation Level
Rating: 4.6★
Entry tickets: Adults: $8, Seniors/Military: $6, Children (3-12): $5, Children under 3: Free
Address: 401 E Pratt St 27th floor, Baltimore, MD 21202
- It opens from Thursday to Sunday
- It is located in the World Trade Center
Why you should go: Baltimore is beautiful, but have you seen it from the highest building in the city?
This is the experience you will have at the Top of the World Observation Level.
It is located on the 27th floor of Baltimore’s World Trade Center, the tallest regular pentagonal building in the world.
Things to do: The observation deck at the World Trade Center is made of huge glass windows that allow visitors to have a 360 degrees view of the city of Baltimore.
You will be served with the most scenic views of the city, Chesapeake Bay, and Inner Harbor.
It is a great spot to watch fireworks on the 4th of July.
Furthermore, if you have an upcoming special event, you can book the Top of the World Observation Level for private use.
- It is 19 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
26. Washington Monument
Rating: 4.6★
Entry tickets: Adults: $6, Children: $4
Address: 699 Washington Pl, Baltimore, MD 21201
- It is open from Wednesday to Sunday
- It honors George Washington
Why you should go: The Washington Monument is a historical landmark located in the Mount Vernon neighborhood.
The monument was erected to honor George Washington and was built by enslaved African Americans between 1848 and 1888.
It was the first architectural monument planned to honor him.
Things to do: The Washington Monument is 178 feet high and has an observation deck at the top.
Visitors climb 228 steps to get to the observation deck from where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city of Baltimore.
George Washington was America’s first president and Founding Father; it is a privilege to visit the monument in his honor.
- It is 19 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
27. The George Peabody Library
Rating: 4.5★
Address: 17 E Mt Vernon Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202
- It was opened in 1878
- It opens from Sunday to Thursday
Why you should go: Located on the Peabody Institute Campus, the George Peabody Library is a public library known for its collection that dives into the 19th century.
Peabody Institute is part of Johns Hopkins University.
The library boasts a collection of over 300,000 books that help visitors to research facts dating back to the 19th century.
Things to do: A library might be an unusual choice for an attraction site, however, if you are interested in learning the history of Baltimore, it will be your best aid.
Apart from the book collection, the George Peabody Library is a renowned venue for special events like weddings because of its architectural magnificence and decor.
- It is 22 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
28. Phoenix Shot Tower
Rating: 4.2★
Entry tickets: General Admission: $5, Seniors/Military/Students: $4, children under 6: Free
Address: 801 E Fayette St, Baltimore, MD 21201
- It was opened in 1828
- It opens on Saturdays and Sundays
Why you should go: The Phoenix Shot Tower is a 235-feet red brick tower located near downtown Baltimore.
It was the country’s tallest tower from its inception in 1828 until 1846.
Of the four shot towers that existed in Baltimore, it is the only that remains.
Moreover, the Phoenix Shot Tower served as a bomb shelter in the early 1960s but was transformed into a museum in 1976.
Things to do: The shot tower has undergone numerous renovations over the years and is today open to the public for climbing.
It consists of 14 floors with an observation deck where visitors can check out amazing views of the city of Baltimore.
Furthermore, the Phoenix Shot Tower is a National Historic Landmark and one of the best things to do near Baltimore.
- It is 21 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
29. Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum
Rating: 4.3★
Entry tickets: Adults: $9, Seniors: $7, Children (7-17): $9, Veterans: $9
Address: 203 N Amity St, Baltimore, MD 21223
- It was opened in 1830
- It opens from Thursday to Sunday
Why you should go: Edgar Allan Poe was an American writer, poet, and literary critic known for his famous poems like To Helen, The Cask of Amontillado, and The Raven.
The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum is the writer’s home that’s a designated National Historic Landmark.
It welcomes visitors to see the writer’s home and explore his mind through his writings.
Things to do: If you enjoy literature, you will definitely love exploring the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum.
The museum takes you on a journey through the writer’s mind and teaches you his writing style through his collection.
In addition, the museum is also the host of the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards that takes place in October of every year.
- It is 20 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
30. Royal Farms Arena
Rating: 4.1★
Entry tickets: $143 for events
Address: Baltimore Arena, 201 W Baltimore St, Baltimore, MD 21201
- It was opened in 1962
- It can host up to 14,000 people
Why you should go: Also known as the Baltimore Arena, the Royal Farms Arena is an events venue located in the heart of downtown Baltimore close to the Inner Harbor.
The arena has been host to various events like music, wrestling, and boxing.
It is one of the best places to attend an event in Baltimore and enjoy a good day making memories with like-minded people.
Things to do: The Royal Farms Arena hosts major sports events and concerts for music and stand-up comedy.
Be on the lookout for upcoming events and buy tickets to attend.
You will have the time of your life!
- It is 17 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
31. Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum
Rating: 4.5★
Entry tickets: Adults: $13, Military: $11, Seniors: $11, Children (5-16): $7
Address: 216 Emory St, Baltimore, MD 21230
- It is located at University-Maryland Dermatology
- It opens from Wednesday to Sunday
Why you should go: Babe Ruth was an American professional baseball player who rose to fame as the greatest hitter of his time.
The Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum is where the baseball icon was born.
It was established to preserve and honor his legacy that paved the way for other sportsmen and sportswomen, especially in the field of baseball.
Things to do: If you are a baseball fan you will love exploring the museum to read about George Herman “Babe” Ruth Jr. and his baseball career that spanned 22 seasons.
Furthermore, you will get the opportunity to see where the international icon was born and spent most of his life.
- It is 17 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
32. Hampton National Historic Site
Rating: 4.6★
Entry tickets: Free
Address: 535 Hampton Ln, Towson, MD 21286
- It was established in 1948
- It opens from Monday to Sunday
Why you should go: The Hampton National Historic Site was established to preserve the remaining mansion from an 18th-century estate.
The mansion is assumed to have been one of the largest private homes in the United States by 1790.
If you would like to see a good example of the late Georgian style of architecture, this mansion is the best example.
Things to do: The mansion was owned by the Ridgely family and was known as one of the biggest communities of enslaved African Americans.
Today, the historic site acts as a study and research place on the enslavement of African Americans.
Visitors are given guided tours during which the expanse of enslavement at the mansion is explained.
- It is 32 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
33. The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum
Rating: 4.4★
Entry tickets: Adults: $15, Seniors: $14, Children (3-11): $12, Students (12-17): $14
Address: 1601-03 E North Ave, Baltimore, MD 21213
- It was founded in 1983
- It opens from Thursday to Sunday
Why you should go: The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum is a Black Educational Museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of African Americans and other black historical figures.
It sits on 1601 East North Avenue in downtown Baltimore and features over 100 wax figures and scenes.
Things to do: Explore the museum’s exhibits that tell 400 years’ worth of African American history in the United States.
Among the people whose wax figures are featured here are Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr. Malcolm X, Ota Benga, Nelson Mandela, and Steve Biko.
The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum remains one of the most interesting things to do near Baltimore.
- It is 31 minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
I hope you enjoyed reading. See you on the next adventure!
I’m Nasiba, the enthusiastic travel blogger behind the exciting journey across North America.
Together with my talented team of travel enthusiasts—Adam, Sam, Sara, Enola, and Noah—we set off on thrilling adventures to explore the hidden gems, breathtaking resorts, and captivating hotels that North America has to offer.
As the leader of this wanderlust-filled group 🙂 I have always had an insatiable desire to discover the true essence of each place I visit.
I believe that the best way to experience a destination is by immersing myself in its culture, interacting with locals, and embracing the unique stories that make each place special