Baltimore, Maryland’s largest city, is often ignored because it lies between the historic cities of Washington, DC and Philadelphia. If you’re traveling to the DC area or the Chesapeake Bay, be sure to plan a visit to “Charm City.” Baltimore’s many attractions, historic sites and excellent restaurants are definitely worth a visit.
Getting There
Baltimore is served by Baltimore / Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, popularly known as “BWI.” The airport is a 15 – 20 minute drive from downtown Baltimore. Light rail service from BWI to downtown is a great alternative if you don’t have a car. You can also travel by Amtrak passenger train to Penn Station.
Where to Stay
Most visitors to Baltimore stay in one of two areas, at the Inner Harbor or near the airport. Inner Harbor hotels, while more expensive, tend to be more luxurious and are extremely convenient if you plan to spend time visiting downtown attractions. Hotels and motels near BWI cater to two types of travelers, tourists and professionals with business either downtown or at nearby Fort George G. Meade. Hotels in the BWI area start at around $120 per night – not a great bargain, but you may find better rates on weekends when government travelers have left the area – while the good Inner Harbor hotels start at about $180 per night. This might be a good time to use some loyalty program points.
Baltimore, like many large cities, has its fair share of unsavory neighborhoods. Don’t book a bargain hotel until you’ve consulted a map and read some user reviews. Sacrificing safety to save money isn’t a good idea.
Dining Options
Baltimore is famous for its neighborhood restaurants, which range from bargain basement to extremely upscale. If you’re visiting Inner Harbor attractions, you can find eateries of all types at Harborplace’s Pratt Street and Light Street Pavilions. You can grab a quick bite at the food court or dine al fresco at Phillips Seafood Restaurant, Tir Na Nog (Irish fare) or one of several chain restaurants. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, head straight for Vaccaro’s Italian Pastries; this family-owned bakery serves up Baltimore’s best cannoli at Harborplace as well as in Little Italy.
Baltimore’s Little Italy neighborhood is home to many outstanding restaurants. While you won’t find many bargains here, you will definitely eat your fill and enjoy every minute of your dining experience. Little Italy is just a short walk from Inner Harbor; if you prefer to drive, it’s probably best to find a parking garage or pay lot and walk to your restaurant, as street parking is extremely hard to find. Family-friendly Amicci’s of Little Italy on High Street serves up huge bowls of delectable pasta at (for Baltimore) reasonable prices. Da Mimmo and Sabatino’s have been around for years and offer traditional Italian specialties. If you’re hoping to take some Italian goodies home, wander over to Il Scalino on High Street, where you’ll find Italian wine, cheese, pizza and sandwiches.
Fells Point is another popular foodie destination; here you’ll find the best of Baltimore’s bars, nightlife and eclectic shopping as well as excellent cuisine from around the world. You can get there by water taxi as well as by car or taxi. Bertha’s Restaurant and Bar is probably the best-known seafood restaurant in Baltimore, thanks to its “Eat Bertha’s Mussels” slogan, and its reputation is well-deserved. If seafood isn’t your style, you’re bound to find something that pleases your palate in Fells Point.
Getting Around
Baltimore’s public transportation system includes a subway (the Metro), light rail and an extensive bus system. You may not need to use any public transportation if you plan to stick to the Inner Harbor area and are staying nearby. If you’re bringing a car to Baltimore, you’ll pay about $20 per day to park it in a downtown garage.
During pleasant weather, the Inner Harbor area is perfect for an afternoon stroll. You can walk around the harbor on beautifully-landscaped sidewalks. Water taxis are another pleasant transportation alternative. You can pay per ride or buy a one-day pass for $9. During the summer months, the water taxi is a great way to get to Fort McHenry (of “Star-Spangled Banner” fame) without using a car.
