Baltimore, Maryland

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Famous for being the birthplace of the A Star-Spangled Banner and a significant hub for biotech, healthcare, and education, Baltimore is a prominent departure port for many cruises. Charm City houses world-class museums, like the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, and the Walters Art Museum, historic neighborhoods, and a scenic inner harbor. This major city of Maryland sits on the Patapsco River, which flows into the Chesapeake Bay, making it a historically significant seaport. Baltimore is a blend of historic pride, artistic energy, and blue-collar resilience and is famous for its food, music, people, and iconic landmarks. Some of the famous landmarks in Baltimore include the National Aquarium, Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore Museum of Art, and American Visionary Art Museum. Let's explore some of the famous attractions in this charming city.

Baltimore's Top Attractions and Activities

National Aquarium

Considered as one of the most iconic and beloved attractions in the U.S., the National Aquarium is a dazzling underwater world situated in the heart of the Inner Harbor. This world-class aquarium houses over 20,000 animals from more than 800 species. Visit this aquarium and explore the stunning exhibits, including the blacktip reef, living seashore, and Amazon River Forest. Travelers will also have the chance to learn how dolphins are trained and cared for in a humane and enriching environment, watch marine-themed films in a 4D immersion theater, and go for a guided tour to meet animals up close, explore coral reefs, and attend exhibits focused on restoring the local ecosystem.

Rawlings Conservatory

A botanical wonder in Druid Hill Park, Rawlings Conservatory is one of the most treasured historic gems in Baltimore, built in 1888. Standing as the second-oldest public conservatory in the U.S., it features a botanical garden and greenhouse complex, a living museum of plants, and a peaceful green serenity perfect for nature lovers, families, and artists. Take a stroll to this conservatory and wander through the greenhouses that have their own climate and plant life, attend seasonal events and educational programs designed for all ages, partake in volunteer gardening days, and enjoy outdoor gardens, especially when they're blooming during spring and summer.

Star-Spangled Banner Flag House

Situated at 844 E Pratt St, the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House is a historically wrapped, charming Federal-style home. This is where Mary Pickersgill and her team sewed the massive 30-by-42-foot garrison flag, which was hoisted over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. This is the exact flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the U.S. national anthem. The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House is a museum that was a former home and workshop of Mary Pickersgill and presently preserves the legacy of women’s entrepreneurship and African American labor in early 19th-century America. Here, walk through the original Flag House, explore the museum galleries showcasing the history of the anthem and the Pickersgill family, and attend educational programs and special events tied to American history and civic pride.

Baltimore Museum of Art

Known as the cultural powerhouse and the largest art museum in Maryland, the Baltimore Museum of Art is located at 10 Art Museum Drive and features over 95,000 works and houses the world’s largest collection of Henri Matisse pieces. Travelers visiting this museum can explore European, African, and American art galleries; attend family art adventures, workshops, and community events; explore eco-themed exhibits like Turn Again to the Earth; and catch after-hours events like the BMA Ball and seasonal parties. The museum also features a sculpture garden where visitors can relax and enjoy the historical vibe.

George Peabody Library

A marvelous architecture located in the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood, the George Peabody Library is part of Johns Hopkins University and is known as one of the most beautiful libraries in the United States. Dating back to the 19th century, this library houses over 300,000 volumes, including works of the 18th and 19th centuries. Here, enjoy and observe the marvelous architecture, browse the rare book collection, learn about 19th-century scholarship, attend public events or lectures, and simply sit, read, and enjoy the ambiance.
 

The Best Time to Cruise to Baltimore

Baltimore changes and offers numerous experiences in all four seasons. The spring season from March to May offers a fresh, colorful, and awakening vibe with temperatures between 50°F and 77°F. This time of the year is ideal for strolling through the Sherwood gardens, especially during the tulip season, watching an Orioles baseball game at Camden Yards, and attending the Light City Festival, a dazzling celebration of art and innovation. The summer in the city is from June to August; temperatures range between 77°F and 95°F, offering a hot and humid climate with occasional thunderstorms. This time in Baltimore feels lively, festive, and full of energy, offering numerous things to enjoy: cruise to the Chesapeake Bay, take a harbor tour, attend Artscape, one of the largest free arts festivals in the U.S., and watch stunning fireworks on the Fourth of July.

From September to November is the Autumn season in Baltimore with a crisp and pleasant climate. During this time, travelers can explore the outdoors, natural parks, forests, and museums. To witness Baltimore in a quiet yet festive vibe, winter (December to February) is the ideal time. Enjoy and explore the outdoors with fewer crowds.