When many people think of summer, they don't picture spending it in Baltimore. Many take plane rides to places across the country. Of course Ocean City is a few hours away and DC is right around the corner, but there is plenty to do in Charm City. From the multitude of restaurants, the amazing festivals and the great sites, summer here is never boring.
1. Inner Harbor.
The Inner Harbor is the main touristy part of Baltimore and with good reason too. There’s so much to do: dinner at the many restaurants around the water, a tour of one of the historic boats, or even a visit to a few stores along the water. There’s never a dull moment in the Inner Harbor.
2. Towson Mall.
While this is a little further away from the center of the city and is technically in Baltimore county, the mall is where a lot of people go to chill out and hang out with their friends. With a multitude of shops and places to eat, you can stay in the cool (literally and figuratively) buildings for hours
3. National Aquarium.
A place where young and old go to continuously marvel at all of the aquatic animals on display. No matter how many times you go, you always find something new and intriguing that captures your eyes and makes you wonder about what else lies in the depths of the ocean.
4. Walters Art Museum.
The Walters Art Museum houses many beautiful pieces from sculptures to paintings. If you’re looking for an educational and interesting thing to do (bonus it’s free), check out the long-standing museum located on North Charles Street.
5. Patterson Park.
The huge park stands in southeast Baltimore near Canton. With a beautiful view of downtown Baltimore’s skyline, the famous Pagoda and multiple cultural festivals during the summer, it is no wonder the park was nicknamed “Best Backyard in Baltimore.”
6. Fort McHenry.
The location of where the “Star Spangled Banner” was written in 1812, Fort McHenry is a great place to go on a warm day. You can see into the past by going into the fort and get a great sense of how the fate of the nation changed exactly where you're standing.
7. Port Discovery.
Even though Port Discovery is technically for children, it is a great place to go even for adults. There’s a multi-story jungle gym, a mystery mansion and even a mini-grocery store. It seems ridiculous, but it’s actually one of the best places in Baltimore to go.
8. Belvedere Square.
If you’re ever indecisive about what to eat, going to Belvedere Square is the best option. There are tons of options ranging from pizza to fresh soup and bread, to light salads to Irish cuisine. During the summer, the market hosts small concerts featuring local artists to draw the community in so you can really get dinner and a show.
9. Hamilton.
The small community that I’m proud to call home has tons of different local restaurants to eat at. Located on a small section of Harford Road, Hamilton is a thriving place that you can walk around from store to store and experience something completely new. During the summer, part of the main road is blocked off for a small festival where stores can come out and show everyone what they’re doing. It’s a great opportunity to hear live music, get free samples and support small businesses.
10. Maryland State Fair.
While this is technically also in Baltimore county, the Maryland State Fair is something you have to go to. It’s at the end of the summer and is basically a carnival featuring a concert with this year’s artist being Charlie Puth.
11. Orioles Game.
You haven’t truly been to Baltimore if you haven’t gone to an Orioles game. The stadium is filled with die-hard O’s fans young and old, cheering the birds to victory. Even if you are not into baseball, it’s a good opportunity to buy a really good crab cake sandwich and hang out with some friends.
12. Fells Point.
This historic district is located right on the waterfront. Being in Fells Point almost feels like being in a small seafront town because of the welcoming atmosphere. With amazing restaurants and fantastic scenery (including the harbor), Fells Point is a great place to go during the summer
13. Federal Hill.
Similar to Fells Point, Federal Hill is also a very historic neighborhood in Baltimore. It has a very iconic view of the Inner Harbor and is a great place to go during Fourth of July to see the fireworks (if you get there early!). The neighborhood has tons of festivals and great places to eat.
14. American Visionary Art Museum.
The cool and quirky museum is home to unique art pieces produced by smaller, grassroots artists. The museum even looks like a work of art from the outside. It has a cool restaurant located inside and is a great way to spend your day.
The list could go on and on from taking strolls in Robert E Lee Park, walking around Mt. Vernon, visiting the Baltimore Museum of Art, or even just a trip to Ms. Shirleys. Baltimore is truly a fantastic place despite how it is portrayed and there are so many things to do in the 410.
