Exploring new cities has always felt like opening a window into the past and future of a place, each with its own flavor and heartbeat. While my travels have taken me around the world, there’s something truly special about discovering cities closer to home. There is a reason that visiting all 50 states was my first big travel bucket list item I ever checked off the list.
When the opportunity to visit Baltimore arose, it felt like the perfect chance to dive deeper into a city we’ve only brushed past on family road trips. Baltimore is a vibrant city famous for its historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and pioneering achievements. Known as the birthplace of the national anthem at Fort McHenry and home to the renowned Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore offers layers of history and innovation at every turn. And let’s not forget the food scene – whether it’s savoring blue crabs by the harbor or exploring the city’s unique takes on soul food, there’s a distinct flavor to Baltimore that we couldn’t wait to experience as a family.
I get why Baltimore, Maryland is nicknamed Charm City. The people truly embody this nickname, sharing their city’s rich heritage with pride and a forward-looking spirit that honors the past while embracing the present and future.
After only three days in Baltimore, we are already planning our return. This isn’t just about catching the spots we missed but about revisiting the places that left a mark on us – and reconnecting with the people who made our experience unforgettable. Known as a city of firsts, Baltimore is truly the first place where I find myself wishing for more time at every single destination we visited. And as a destination for multi-generational travel, it hit every mark.
Ready to explore all of the sights, bites & more with me as I tour around this Maryland city that is so full of love? Here is my Ultimate 3-day Baltimore Travel Guide.
Portions of this trip were generously hosted, but as always, all opinions are my own.
Fun Trip Facts
- Where To Now: Baltimore, Maryland
- Closest Airport: Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) (Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) are around 1-1.5 hours away).
- When Did I Visit: October 2024
- Nearby “Major” Cities: Washington, D.C. is about an hour away by car or train.
- What Transportation Did I Use: We relied on Ubers to get around the city, which worked well for our itinerary. If you’re staying within Baltimore, a car isn’t necessary. Baltimore is a compact, walkable city with plenty of public transportation options, including the Charm City Circulator, Light Rail, and MARC train for connections to D.C. Many of the main attractions, restaurants, and waterfront spots are within easy reach by foot or a short ride.
Where to Stay
So, you know me. I usually rent houses short-term when I travel. I like the convenience of a full kitchen, a cozy living room, a dining area, and, if possible, the privacy of having my own washer and dryer. I’m the kind of traveler who wants a home-like setting while exploring new-to-me destinations.
That being said, I also enjoy staying at hotels – especially when they offer something unique to enhance the experience. Baltimore has a few gems that make the choice tough!
We stayed at The Ulysses, a boutique hotel in Baltimore’s Mount Vernon, where historic charm meets modern, eclectic design for a truly unique stay.
The Ulysses is a true reflection of Baltimore’s vibrant character – historically inspired yet brimming with bold, modern flair. The service was impeccable, and the rooms offered a distinct charm with unique touches that made our stay feel genuinely special.
Oh, and they offer double rooms with two full sized beds, which is an economical option for 2-4 person family travel.
Every detail at The Ulysses, from the decor to the artistic accents, feels authentically Baltimore. Plus, it’s ideally located in the heart of Mount Vernon, making it easy to explore the city’s rich cultural spots right from our doorstep.
Lord Baltimore Hotel
A historic gem with stunning Italian Renaissance architecture, vintage elegance, and plenty of art-forward, Instagrammable spots throughout.
Hotel Revival Baltimore
Offers an affordable, artful stay in a historic mansion, blending vintage charm with modern touches and fantastic rooftop views of Baltimore’s skyline.
Cliff Notes: Things to Experience
Want the quick list of things I did and absolutely loved? If you want more detail, head to my 3-Day Itinerary.
National Aquarium: a world-class aquarium featuring thousands of marine species and immersive exhibits, from coral reefs to rainforest habitats.
Historic Ships in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor: explore Baltimore’s maritime heritage with visits to iconic ships like the USS Constellation, USCG Cutter 37, LV-116 Chesapeake, and USS Torsk, each offering a unique piece of naval history.
Fort McHenry: known as the birthplace of the national anthem, this historic fort played a key role in the War of 1812 and offers visitors a glimpse into American history.
Lexington Market: one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the country, featuring a variety of local food vendors and Baltimore’s famous crab cakes.
Green Mount Cemetery: a historic cemetery with intricate monuments, it’s the final resting place of notable Baltimoreans, offering a quiet and scenic space for history enthusiasts.
American Visionary Art Museum: a unique museum dedicated to visionary and self-taught artists, showcasing quirky and thought-provoking works that inspire creativity.
Bite of Baltimore Food and History Walking Tour: a guided walking tour that combines Baltimore’s rich culinary and cultural heritage, stopping at local eateries and historic sites along the way.
Visit to Poe’s Grave: a must for literary fans, this historic grave site at Westminster Hall and Burying Ground is a tribute to Baltimore’s connection to Edgar Allan Poe.
B&O Railroad Museum: a museum highlighting the history of American railroading, with interactive exhibits, historic trains, and train rides for all ages.
Mount Vernon Marketplace: a lively indoor market offering diverse food stalls and local vendors, perfect for sampling Baltimore’s culinary scene all in one place.
Baltimore Farmer’s Market: a bustling weekly market with local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious street food, showcasing the best of Baltimore’s local flavors and craftsmanship.
Penn Station: Baltimore’s main transportation hub and an architectural landmark, reflecting the grandeur of early 20th-century design.
My 3-Day Itinerary
The First Day
We flew into Baltimore the previous night, checked into The Ulysses, and went straight to bed to prepare for an entire first day of adventure.
Aquatic Adventures
National Aquarium
501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Our first stop was the National Aquarium, a must-see destination that immerses you in the wonders of the aquatic world. Located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the aquarium showcases thousands of marine species across stunning exhibits, including recreated ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest and the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific. Their mission is to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures, and this dedication shines throughout their interactive and visually captivating displays.
Our favorite exhibit was the “Atlantic Coral Reef,” an impressive multi-level tank that offers an up-close look at vibrant coral structures and the diverse marine life that calls it home. Exploring this exhibit felt like diving into the ocean without getting wet!
The aquarium’s interactive exhibits, where you can gently touch jellyfish, stingrays, and other marine creatures, add a hands-on educational experience. These encounters teach children (and adults!) how to respectfully interact with aquatic life, fostering a sense of wonder and responsibility for ocean conservation.
If you’re in need of a snack or drink, the café inside offers a variety of options, including sustainably sourced seafood and locally inspired bites.
Helpful Tip: You can easily explore other Inner Harbor attractions nearby, like the historic ships and the American Visionary Art Museum. Parking in the area is available in several garages, but street parking can sometimes be found just a short walk away.
We Love Brunch a Bunch
Miss Shirley’s Cafe
750 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Miss Shirley’s Cafe is a lively spot near the National Aquarium, and it’s a must for brunch lovers. Known for its Southern-inspired comfort food with a Maryland twist, this place lives up to the hype. The Maryland Omelet is a standout, packed with jumbo lump crab meat, plenty of cheese, and dusted with Old Bay – truly a Baltimore classic. And for a starter, the hot honey fried chicken deviled eggs are deliciously addictive, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
For a hearty midday bite, try “Get Your Grits On,” a dish that pairs jumbo blackened shrimp with a fried green tomato and stone-ground grits, dusted in Cajun spices. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, this dish hits all the right notes and is as flavorful as it sounds.
The cozy vibes and attentive service at Miss Shirley’s make it feel like your neighborhood diner, the kind of place where they know your order and exactly how you like your coffee (just kidding, I drink tea). It’s the perfect blend of comfort food meets Michelin-level cuisine, with Southern-meets-coastal offerings that are both elevated and packed with authentic Maryland flavor.
Helpful Tip: Be sure to grab one of their fresh-baked pimento cheese biscuits – they’re melt-in-your-mouth tasty and baked throughout the day!
Anchors Aweigh
Historic Ships in Baltimore
200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220
Our next stop took us aboard the historic ships anchored in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, each offering a fascinating piece of naval history. The tour includes iconic vessels like the USS Constellation, a 19th-century naval ship, where we ventured into the lower decks to see the original wooden planks and even the ship’s brig – a small, stark area definitely not built for comfort. Alongside the Constellation, you can explore other legendary vessels, such as the USCG Cutter 37, LV-116 Chesapeake, and the USS Torsk, each with its own unique story and setting.
Each ship offers a distinct glimpse into different eras and roles in naval history, from the USS Constellation’s missions against the transatlantic slave trade to the confined quarters aboard the WWII submarine USS Torsk. During our time on the Constellation, we learned about its role in intercepting illegal slave ships, a powerful chapter that reveals the ship’s role beyond battle, as it fought for humanitarian causes as well. Visitors can buy tickets and explore the ships at their own pace or join a guided tour, with special events often held on board, such as reenactments and educational programs that bring these stories to life.
We opted to join a special tour on the Cutter that discussed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and the broader history of homosexuality in the military, with insight into how this policy impacted service members aboard these ships and the military in general. This added layer of historical context brought the vessels’ stories to life in a powerful way.
Helpful Tip: Plan for a mix of above-deck views and below-deck exploration. While five-inch platforms are not impossible, they are also not ideal for navigating the historic decks and tight spaces. Comfortable shoes will make it much easier to explore these remarkable vessels.
The Birthplace of the National Anthem
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230
Fort McHenry, known as the birthplace of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” brings American history vividly to life. It holds the honor of being the first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring a flag to fly 24/7, 365 days a year. Each morning and afternoon, visitors can join park staff in the flag-changing ceremony, where the larger, historic replica flag is raised in the morning, and an all-weather flag takes its place in the evening. My daughter had the unforgettable honor of participating in the 4 PM ceremony, helping to lower the flag and place it in its secure overnight home – a memory we’ll treasure.
As we explored the grounds, the peaceful views over the water offered a striking contrast to the fort’s storied past in defense and warfare. The sense of tranquility, especially given the history here, is truly humbling. We noticed the historic fruit trees and gardens scattered throughout Fort McHenry, a nod to the self-sustaining practices of the soldiers stationed here. Apple, peach, and pear trees reflect the varieties once grown at the fort to provide fresh produce for those living within its walls. Today, these trees add a natural beauty to the landscape and serve as a reminder of the daily life and resilience that were essential to Fort McHenry’s history.
During the Civil War, Fort McHenry took on a new role as a hospital, providing care for wounded soldiers. The fort’s barracks and other buildings were converted into medical facilities, accommodating thousands of Union troops injured on the battlefield. This transformation into a hospital was vital to supporting the Union Army, and it became a significant medical center for the region. Fort McHenry’s strategic location allowed it to receive supplies and quickly transport patients, reflecting its continued importance in American history – not just as a military post, but as a place of healing during a critical time.
Fort McHenry offers both self-guided and ranger-led tours, with seasonal events and activities that bring additional depth to this treasured landmark. It’s an experience that combines history, nature, and community, celebrating both the fort’s legacy and the beauty that now surrounds it.
Comfort for Dinner
The Tilted Row
305 W 29th St, Baltimore, MD 21211
By evening, our appetites led us to The Tilted Row, a standout in Baltimore’s food scene that offers elevated homestyle American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. With my dietary needs, I often seek out restaurants that emphasize quality and fresh produce, and The Tilted Row’s culinary team works closely with local farmers to source ingredients, supporting both flavor and sustainability.
The menu feels like a gourmet twist on Southern comfort food, taking classic dishes and adding a creative, upscale flair.
We tried a bit of everything, but highlights included the “Tiled Coddies” – salted codfish fritters with sweet corn and Old Bay aioli – and the pan-seared pork chop, easily the best I’ve ever had, topped with creamy pepper onion gravy. For dessert, don’t skip the pineapple upside-down cake, perfectly paired with Taharka Brothers artisanal ice cream, a local favorite that adds a memorable touch to the end of the meal.
Helpful Tip: Don’t leave without trying their house-made hot sauce! Its perfect balance of creamy sweetness with just the right amount of heat adds a unique kick to any dish. Here’s hoping they bottle it soon!
Day 2
A Famous Cemetery
Green Mount Cemetery
1501 Greenmount Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202
Cemeteries often have a solemn air, and Green Mount Cemetery is no exception. But stepping into this 68-acre historic site, established in 1838, feels like entering a unique moment in Baltimore’s history. Designed in the picturesque rural garden style, Green Mount offers peaceful, winding paths, beautiful headstones, and intricate monuments that tell stories of the past.
Helpful Tip: While photography and videography for personal use are allowed, commercial photography is not permitted, preserving the integrity and tranquility of the grounds.
Visitors will find the graves of notable figures, including John Wilkes Booth and Elijah Bond, the creator of the Ouija board, among many other historical personalities.
Flavors of Baltimore
Lexington Market
400 W Lexington St, Baltimore, MD 21201
Lexington Market is a Baltimore institution, bustling with food stalls and flavors that highlight the city’s diverse culinary heritage. We made our way through some of the market’s must-try spots, sampling a little of everything.
Our first stop was Kokee Tea, where we grabbed a refreshing milk tea with pearls – just the right amount of sweetness and ice. Next, we stopped at Blue Island, a Malaysian-inspired stall with a pan-Asian menu, where we enjoyed a flavorful beef and veggie dish that was perfect for a quick bite.
Baltimore is known for its classic “chicken box,” typically served with crispy wings, fries, and topped with ketchup, salt, pepper, and sometimes hot sauce. We had ours at Super Fried Chicken, and it didn’t disappoint – the chicken was perfectly crispy, and the ketchup gave it a tangy kick that brought everything together.
Of course, no trip to Baltimore would be complete without trying a crab cake. Faidley’s Seafood came highly recommended, so we had to stop there, and it ended up being our favorite crab cake of the trip. With a moist, well-seasoned interior, a perfect texture, and loaded with crab, it was a standout.
Helpful Tip: With so many choices, consider starting with local classics like the chicken box or crab cakes, and bring a friend so you can sample a little of everything.
Art with a Twist
American Visionary Art Museum
800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230
The American Visionary Art Museum highlights the work of self-taught artists, featuring an array of sculptures, mosaics, and installations. The exhibits cover a wide range of themes, from social issues to personal expression, with a focus on unconventional materials and techniques. The museum’s layout is dynamic, with colorful, varied displays that showcase the imaginative nature of visionary art.
Helpful Tip: Be mindful of the museum’s strict policies – they don’t allow tripods or video recording, so plan accordingly if you’re hoping to capture your visit.
Walking & Eating
Bites of Baltimore: Food and History Walking Tour
Fells Point Neighborhood
The Bites of Baltimore Food and History Walking Tour combines a guided historical walk through Baltimore’s iconic neighborhoods with tastings at select local restaurants. Each tour is led by a local guide who shares insights into the area’s rich history while introducing you to four specially chosen food selections, water, and one signature cocktail. Dietary restrictions are never a problem – just fill out the form when booking, and the team will handle the rest. It’s an ideal way to savor Baltimore’s flavors while exploring its past.
Food Stops
The Point
1738 Thames St, Baltimore, MD 21231
Broadway Market – Thai Street
1640 Aliceanna St, Baltimore, MD 21231
Pitango Bakery & Cafe
903 S Ann St, Baltimore, MD 21231
Our first stop, The Point, was a standout for fresh flavors. We enjoyed an apple, pepita, kale, and Brussels sprout salad with a tangy yogurt-based dressing, as well as some of the best crab cakes and balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts. Many ingredients come straight from the owner’s garden, adding a fresh, local touch to the dishes. They also served a signature cocktail, which they were able to make as a mocktail upon request.
At Thai Street, we dove into authentic Thai flavors, and the standout was their Pad Cha, a fragrant, spicy stir-fry that tasted like it came straight from Khun Yai’s kitchen (that’s “Grandma” in Thai). They also offer a spicy papaya salad challenge that requires signing a waiver – a fun, adventurous option for anyone who loves a serious spice kick!
We wrapped up our tour at Pitango Bakery & Cafe, where we sampled a selection of artisan breads, meats, cheeses, and enjoyed hot drinks. Their chai was perfectly spiced, and their prosciutto di Parma, sourced directly from a family producer in Parma, Italy, was exceptional. Pitango’s focus on quality and authenticity makes it feel like a cozy European cafe in the heart of Baltimore.
Tour Experience
As we walked to each dining location, we learned about the history of Fell’s Point, Baltimore’s waterfront neighborhood with cobblestone streets and Colonial brick row-homes. Known for its small business atmosphere and burgeoning culinary scene, Fell’s Point offers an enchanting mix of history and modern food culture. Bite of Baltimore curates a truly unique experience, giving visitors a deeper connection to Baltimore’s past while showcasing its evolving food landscape.
If you’re looking for an engaging way to explore Baltimore’s history while sampling delicious food, this walking tour is an experience not to miss. Highly recommended for anyone wanting an authentic taste of the city.
Always Injera
Dukem Ethiopian
1100 Maryland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21201
Dukem Ethiopian is the perfect spot to gather and dive into authentic Ethiopian dishes with bold flavors and vibrant spices. The Dukem Special Tibs was a standout – rich, savory, and with just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, which is a great option for enjoying a warm evening while savoring your meal.
If you’re craving a welcoming, laid-back spot that serves up both hearty portions and rich, soulful flavors, Dukem Ethiopian is a must-visit in Baltimore.
Day 3
Fresh Finds for Breakfast
Baltimore Farmer’s Market
Underneath the Jones Falls Expressway at Holliday & Saratoga streets, Baltimore, MD
Our first stop of the day was the Baltimore Farmer’s Market, a lively spot brimming with local produce, artisanal goods, and a welcoming community vibe. We wasted no time sampling our way through the stalls, enjoying everything from delicate French canelés to savory empanadas and flaky quiches. The variety of fresh, local produce was incredible, with Bartenfelder Farms from Preston, MD, standing out with the most perfect looking fruits and veggies – I wished I were local so I could stock up every week!
Helpful Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and get first pick on the freshest treats. The market’s popularity means it fills up fast, but the lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it well worth an early start.
One of the most memorable experiences was meeting a dapper gentleman seated at a small table with a typewriter, under a sign reading “Poetry & Prose on Demand.”
He crafted custom poems on the spot, inspired by topics provided by passersby. It was such a unique, personal touch to the market, and I highly recommend stopping by to take home your own one-of-a-kind poem.
Poe & Places
International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards
203 N. Amity Street in Baltimore, Maryland
Our next stop was the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards, held annually in Baltimore each October to celebrate the life and works of Poe. This atmospheric festival includes live readings, theatrical performances, and storytelling that honor Poe’s literary legacy. Expect a lively crowd of fans, authors, and performers, all bringing the Gothic spirit to life with themed events and costumes.
We opted for the VIP “Death Weekend” Poe Places Bus Tour. This exclusive tour took us to significant sites from Poe’s life in Baltimore, immersing us in his final days. Highlights included a stop at the hospital where Poe died under mysterious circumstances, and a visit to his original burial place.
This event is a free event, meaning the festival grounds do not have an entrance fee, but there are a number of ticketed events, for a fee, like the bus tour. The festival is popular, so book the VIP experience in advance if you want to secure a spot on the Poe Places tour.
Lunch and Local Finds
Mt. Vernon Marketplace
520 Park Ave, Baltimore, MD 21201
Mt. Vernon Marketplace is a vibrant food hall offering a variety of cuisines, making it a great spot to grab lunch with friends. With a mix of global flavors and local favorites, it’s the perfect place to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
We started with some delicious milk tea from Chung Chun, which was refreshing and full of flavor. The standout, though, was the chicken shawarma from Mercy Seat, served with a generous side of creamy hummus that was perfect for dipping. For a lighter, customizable option, Brown Rice Korean Grill offers a “make your own bibimbap” bowl that lets you choose your own ingredients – ideal for those wanting a fresh, personalized meal.
Beyond food, we enjoyed browsing the eclectic shops in the marketplace. Tigerlilly Shop Jewelry caught our eye with its unique jewelry pieces, and we couldn’t resist picking up a few goodies to take home.
Helpful Tip: During busy lunch hours, seating fills up fast, so it’s best to grab a table first and then head out to order your food. This way, you’ll have a spot reserved to enjoy your meal without the scramble.
Trains Through Time
B&O Railroad Museum
901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223
The B&O Railroad Museum is an immersive experience into the history of American railroading, housed in one of the oldest and most significant railway buildings in the country. This landmark museum is located on the site where the first commercial long-distance tracks were laid, making it a cornerstone of American rail history. Spanning multiple buildings and outdoor tracks, the museum showcases a vast collection of vintage locomotives, passenger and freight cars, and a wide array of railroad artifacts, including early tools, equipment, and signage.
Helpful Tip: For neurodivergent visitors, the museum hosts Sensory Sundays, offering a calmer environment with sensory-friendly accommodations and events. This is a great option for those with sensory sensitivities, providing a more accessible and enjoyable museum experience.
Inside the historic roundhouse, you’ll find meticulously restored steam engines and diesel locomotives, many of which can be boarded to explore their interiors. Exhibits cover various aspects of railroading history, from the technological innovations that shaped transportation to the cultural impact of railroads on American life. There are also interactive exhibits and educational displays that cater to both kids and adults, making it a rich experience for anyone interested in how railroads transformed the nation.
We loved exploring the expansive train room, where visitors can board many of the actual trains, getting a close-up view of their historic interiors. A visit to the miniature train room was another highlight, featuring intricate model railroads that capture the wonder of rail travel on a small scale.
Closing Thoughts
You made it to the end of my Baltimore travel guide! Writing this has me eager to plan my next visit to Charm City. I hope this guide helps you create your own adventure in Baltimore. With its mix of history, culture, and local flavor, three days felt like barely enough time. I was constantly trying to squeeze in one more spot or experience, so be prepared for an itinerary packed with highlights!
Baltimore is a super family-friendly, inclusive city with a fascinating past that seamlessly connects to its lively present. From historic landmarks to unique art scenes and welcoming locals, Baltimore’s charm is undeniable.
Honestly, I left Baltimore feeling like I’d just scratched the surface, and that’s one of my favorite feelings. Baltimore left me hungry for more – more food, more experiences, more of everything this city has to offer.
Questions for you:
- If you’ve never visited, what activity are you most excited to check out during your visit?
- If you’ve traveled to Baltimore before, how similar were our itineraries?
- And if you’re a Baltimore local, what hidden gems am I missing from this 3-Day Baltimore Travel Guide? Leave me a comment and let me know.
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