Baltimore
The old port city with neighborhoods
Baltimore is famous for being the place where “The Star-Spangled Banner,” America’s national anthem, was first written. But what makes it an American city is its strong, down-to-earth spirit. It is best to see the busy Inner Harbor from the top of Federal Hill. Baltimore is a city of differences, with an Inner Harbor that was busy in the 1700s and is still busy today. It is known for its cute neighborhoods and thriving food scene, as well as being a center for culture and heritage travel. Visit the important sites, like the first Washington Monument or the first Catholic church in the US, but don’t forget to stop by the old row houses and meet the proud, friendly people who live there.
Sights along the water, arts districts, and famous restaurants
Take the Baltimore Water Taxi along the water to see beautiful views of the Under Armour complex. Then, visit the Inner Harbor’s famous ships, such as the U.S.S. Constellation, which is the last ship from the Civil War that is still afloat. The National Aquarium is in Baltimore, not Washington, D.C., so be sure to check it out. Any of the city’s charming neighborhoods is a great place to find great restaurants and lively art. ZAG ranked Baltimore as the No. 2 foodie city in the world in its “Top 17 Food Cities of 2015” list. Visit the city’s three arts and entertainment areas to see street art, music venues, and artist studios that are part of the local culture. You can visit small shops in Fell’s Point and Hampden, or you can go to Harbor East to find more high-end stores.
Cultural Heritage, history, and Art Get together
For those who have been to Baltimore, they must see Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. During the War of 1812, it was used to protect the city. The Reginald F. Lewis Museum, the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, and the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park are all great places to learn about Maryland’s African-American history. Edgar Allan Poe, one of Baltimore’s most famous locals, left an indelible mark on the city. Learn more about his life at the Poe House and Museum and pay your respects at his grave. The Walters Art Museum has art, artifacts, and jewelry from the last five hundred years, and the Baltimore Museum of Art has the world’s biggest collection of Henri Matisse’s work. Both museums are free to enter. Finally, the B&O Railroad Museum and the American Visionary Art Museum should be on your list of places to see.
People in the area love sweet Maryland blue crabs, and you can find them in crab cakes, crab soup, and even crab eggs benedict. To enjoy the seafood in a Maryland way, though, you should have a crab feast. Grab a table wrapped in newspaper and use mallets or your bare hands to crack open steamed crabs. Baltimore is also enjoying its oyster harvest, and many restaurants and bars serve these tasty half-shells.