Baltimore: Culture, Harbor and History

Baltimore brings together art collections, maritime history and waterfront experiences. A good starting point is the Inner Harbor: the National Aquarium is in the heart of downtown at the Inner Harbor and is easy to reach by all modes of transport. From here, you can explore the city through a range of themes—from the history of the United States to collections, markets and waterways.

History and Art in Baltimore

Fort McHenry is associated with a pivotal moment in US history. The fort’s defense during the Battle of Baltimore on September 13 and 14, 1814, inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the US national anthem. Admission to films and exhibits at the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center is free. A ten-minute orientation film covers the Battle of Baltimore and the creation of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Getting to the fort can also be part of your planning: water transportation to the fort is available from various locations around the Inner Harbor. Schedules vary seasonally; check the schedule if you plan to use this connection.

Art lovers will find a range of starting points in the city’s collections. The Walters Art Museum has about 36,000 objects spanning some seven millennia—from 5000 BC to the 21st century. The Baltimore Museum of Art is known for its exceptional Matisse collection. The Reginald F. Lewis Museum focuses on the significant achievements and struggles of African Americans across 400 years of Maryland history. Each of the three museums has a different focus: a wide-ranging collection, Matisse, and Maryland’s African American history.

The Walters Art Museum is near the free Charm City Circulator; MTA Silver, Green, Yellow, Pink and Purple bus routes; routes 95, 51 and 103; and the Centre Street light rail stop. The Circulator serves the Purple Line at stop 307. If you’re planning visits around transit connections, these routes and stops offer specific points of reference.

Museums, Railroad History and Film

At the B&O Railroad Museum, visitors can explore the Mt. Clare Shops and enter the B&O Roundhouse to see locomotives. The two areas offer different perspectives on the railroad collection: the Shops invite visitors to explore, while the Roundhouse is a place to view locomotives.

The Maryland Science Center combines a museum visit with interactive exhibits: admission includes three floors of interactive exhibit halls. Since ticket inclusions may change, check what admission currently covers before your visit. The St. John Properties IMAX Theater features a five-story-high screen, surround sound and stadium-style seating.

The Rawlings Conservatory has five greenhouse rooms, each with a different climate. It adds plant life to the museum and history themes, with each room showcasing plants under different climatic conditions.

Waterways, Sailing and Ships

The Baltimore Blueway is a network of eight water trails along more than 20 miles of urban waterfront. The Inner Harbor Heritage Water Trail is a two-mile loop along the Inner Harbor waterfront and is rated for paddlers with an intermediate skill level. Access conditions may change; check them before your trip.

Those who prefer sailing can find courses for all skill levels at the Downtown Sailing Center; course offerings may change. The pedal-powered Chessie Dragon boats can each accommodate up to four people. Historic Ships in Baltimore adds to the waterfront experiences with a collection of four historic boats and a unique lighthouse dating from 1856.

Market and Culinary Tradition

Lexington Market has served Baltimore for more than 230 years as a hub for fresh food and local and regional culinary specialties. It is considered the longest continuously operating public market in the United States. Alongside museums and waterways, the market offers a place where food and culinary tradition are part of the city experience.

As you plan your stay, you can weigh the options: art collections and history, experiences around the Inner Harbor, railroad and science themes, or visits to the market.

Explore More Destinations

Explore more destinations: Owings Mills, Cockeysville, Pikesville, Essex, Baltimore, Lutherville-Timonium, Towson, White Marsh, Dundalk, Rosedale, Monkton, Woodlawn, Sparks Glencoe, Hydes, Glen Arm, Parkton, Halethorpe, Catonsville.

For the broader travel overview: Maryland.