Baltimore: Harbor Views, History and Maritime Experiences

Baltimore offers a range of experiences for a stay: water viewing and harbor views sit alongside historic sites, an outdoor exhibit and maritime collections. Outdoor activities and sightseeing cruises are also among the possibilities. If you’re looking for a hotel in Baltimore, choosing among these themes can help shape the focus of your trip.

Water Views and Exhibits

Visitors can observe Blacktip Reef both from above and below the water’s surface, offering two perspectives on the same reef.

Harbor Wetland offers a different focus: the free outdoor exhibit is located between Piers 3 and 4 on the grounds of the National Aquarium at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor also offers scenic views of the waterfront.

Fort McHenry: History and Outdoor Activities

At Fort McHenry, visitors can tour the same buildings and bastions used by generations of American soldiers. In 1814, the defenders of Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” This brings both the site’s historic use and a specific event from its history into focus.

Runners, walkers and cyclists can use the Seawall Trail at Fort McHenry for outdoor activities. Park rules and weather can affect access; take both into account when planning.

Sightseeing Cruises and Maritime Collections

The Water Trolley offers Inner Harbor and Outer Harbor sightseeing cruises and connects visitors with some of Baltimore’s best-known attractions. A day pass is available. Check the routes and seasonal operating schedule before your trip.

The Historic Ships collection in Baltimore includes four historic boats. The collection also includes a unique lighthouse dating from 1856. The boats and lighthouse give the collection distinct maritime highlights.

The U.S.S. Constellation was built by the U.S. Navy in 1854 and is the only surviving ship from the American Civil War. Cannon firings take place aboard the USS Constellation every day at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Since daily schedules can change, check the times before your visit. The U.S.S. Constellation and the lighthouse are close in age: the ship was built in 1854, and the lighthouse dates from 1856. The difference is two years.

For trip planning, these offerings provide different highlights: Fort McHenry combines buildings and bastions with a historic event, while the Historic Ships collection includes boats and a lighthouse. Water viewing, harbor views, outdoor activities and sightseeing cruises offer more ways to experience Baltimore according to your interests.

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For the main travel overview: Baltimore.