Baltimore, Maryland has a lot to offer both local and out of state tourists. Its historic roots make it the perfect getaway for history buffs, foodies and sports fans alike. So whether you’re in town for the week or live local but want to getaway in your own backyard, Baltimore is a city packed with potential. Now with over 200 distinctive neighborhoods, this bustling port town is brimming with character and eclectic charm. Check out our favorite Baltimore Staycation Destinations and things to do below.

Where to Stay

Lord Baltimore Hotel

Located in the heart of the city, this downtown charmer boasts 440 rooms and the only rooftop bar in the area. Originally constructed in 1928 it is listed in the National Historic Register and has played host to distinguished guests like Martin Luther King Jr. among others. Although it is filled with historic charm, the hotel recently received a renovation in 2014 bringing it into the new decade with modern furnishing, décor and dining options.

The Ivy Hotel

If a historic mansion is more your speed, then look no further than the Ivy Hotel. A luxury boutique experience, this all-inclusive getaway combines the best of modern comforts with the charming styling of a 19th century private home. As an added bonus, the hotel offers nightly games, drinks and bespoke tourism experiences. It also plays host to the award winning, fine dining restaurant Magdalena, which combines the best of English and French country fare.

Admiral Fell Inn

For visitors planning to stay in the waterfront tourist district, the Admiral Fell Inn is only steps away from bars, restaurants, shopping and entertainment. With European style rooms, a central location, and a rich history the hotel provides comfortable lodging and a storied past. The Inn has been through many changes over the decades from being a home for sailors and shipbuilders to its commercial days as a vinegar-bottling factory. Through it all, the space has never given up its warm charm and hospitality.

 

What to See

The Maryland Zoo

Perfect for families, visitors and children the Maryland Zoo is a 135-acre park located in the historic area of Druid Hill. It has five main areas of focus, Schaefer Plaza, Zoo Central, Maryland Wilderness, Polar Bear Watch and African Journey as well as numerous dining and entertainment options. A tram connects visitors to the central zoo free of charge to make access easy and convenient for local travelers.

National Aquarium

Located in the inner harbor, the National Aquarium is home to more than 17,000 aquatic animals over 750 different species. Its tanks hold over two million gallons of water, and play host to an ocean shark tank and marine mammal pavilion. They offer several guided tours as well as 4D immersion Theater. With daily shows, tours and demonstrations, it is a great way to beat the heat and learn about local and global wildlife.

Sherwood Gardens

While the garden is open and available to visitors year round, it really comes to life in the spring. In early April and May, the Garden’s 80,000 tulips burst into bloom in a spectacular display of scent and color. Along with dogwoods, azaleas and flowering cherries the park is a hard sight to miss. Constructed in the 1920s by John W. Sherwood as a place to showcase his prized tulips, the garden is now known for it’s serene grounds and stunning floral display.

B&O Railroad Museum

Opened in 1953, the B&O Railroad Museum will be of interest to the young and young at heart. Known for having one of the largest collections of locomotives and railroad memorabilia in the world it offers several children’s programs, tours as well as rides on the Museum’s custom locomotive.

Oriole Park

Home to the Baltimore Orioles, Oriole Park first opened in 1992 as a retro-classic ballpark whose architecture echoes the golden age of baseball. Catch a game or a take a tour and soak in an afternoon of fun and sun while learning about the history and design of the venue.

Urban Pirates

Take to the water with the Urban Pirates, an interactive pirate adventure for locals and tourists alike. Ride along as their custom-built pirate ship tours the waterways and reenacts life on the water.

Baltimore Museum of Arts

Originally founded with a single painting, the Baltimore Museum of arts has come a long way in the past hundred years. It is now home to a vast collection of more than 95,000 pieces and is known for its large holding of more than 1,000 works by Henri Matisse. Come for the afternoon or stay for the day as you take in the carefully curated work of modern and classic artists.