10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Baltimore, Maryland
If you’re planning a trip to
Baltimore, Maryland, you’re in for a treat. This harbor city in
Baltimore County has a little bit of everything: history, waterfront views, seafood, sports, and quirky neighborhoods that feel like movie sets.
Whether you’re coming for a weekend getaway from nearby states or flying in from across the country, this easy guide will walk you through
10 things to do near Baltimore that are perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and friend groups.
1. Explore the Baltimore Inner Harbor
If you do nothing else in Baltimore, spend time at the
Inner Harbor. It’s the heart of the city and one of the most popular tourist spots on the East Coast.
Walk along the wide waterfront promenade, watch the boats, and pop into shops and restaurants as you go. Street performers often set up here, and there’s usually something going on—festivals, live music, or outdoor markets.
- Take a harbor cruise or ride a water taxi.
- Grab crab cakes at a waterfront restaurant.
- Visit Harborplace for quick bites and people-watching.
If you love easy, walkable areas with a view, the Inner Harbor will probably be your home base in Baltimore.
2. Dive Into the National Aquarium
Right at the Inner Harbor, you’ll find one of the top aquariums in the United States: the
National Aquarium in Baltimore.
Inside, you’ll walk through dark, dramatic exhibits where sharks glide overhead and colorful fish swirl around coral reefs. There’s also a huge rainforest area with birds, a sloth, and tropical plants.
What makes it special?
- Jellies Invasion exhibit with glowing jellyfish.
- A massive shark tank you can view from different angles.
- Interactive touch pools for kids and curious adults.
Tickets can sell out, especially on weekends, so it’s smart to buy in advance online. If you’re traveling with kids, plan at least 2–3 hours here—though you might end up staying longer.
3. Step Back in Time at Fort McHenry
Baltimore isn’t just about fun neighborhoods and crab feasts. It also played a key role in American history. Just a short drive from downtown,
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is where the battle took place that inspired “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
You can:
- Walk the old star-shaped fort and its thick walls.
- Look out over the water where British ships once fired cannons.
- Watch a short film about the War of 1812 and the national anthem.
On a sunny day, the grassy grounds are perfect for a picnic with a view of the harbor. If you like history—even just a little—you’ll appreciate how this place brings the story to life without feeling like a stuffy museum.
4. Stroll the Historic Streets of Fells Point
Looking for cobblestone charm? Head to
Fells Point, one of Baltimore’s oldest waterfront neighborhoods.
This area feels like an old port town, with narrow streets, brick rowhouses, and 18th- and 19th-century buildings. It’s a great place to walk around, grab a drink, or sit outside and people-watch.
Here’s what you can do in Fells Point:
- Browse local boutiques and record shops.
- Enjoy waterfront bars and pubs with outdoor seating.
- Take a ghost tour at night and hear spooky Baltimore legends.
If you like neighborhoods with character (and great nightlife), put Fells Point high on your Baltimore itinerary.
5. Visit the American Visionary Art Museum
Close to the Inner Harbor, the
American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) might be one of the most unique museums you’ll ever visit.
Instead of classic paintings and sculptures, this place celebrates “outsider art”—works by self-taught artists who often use found materials, bright colors, and wild creativity. You may see giant mosaic sculptures, moving machines, and pieces made from everyday objects.
Why it stands out:
- It’s fun even if you “don’t like museums.”
- The building itself is covered in mirror mosaics.
- Exhibits are thought-provoking but also playful.
If you enjoy quirky, creative spaces (or you’re just looking for something different to do in Baltimore), AVAM is a must.
6. Catch a Game at Camden Yards
Sports fan or not, an afternoon or evening at
Oriole Park at Camden Yards is a classic Baltimore experience.
Often called one of the most beautiful ballparks in America, Camden Yards has an old-school, brick-and-iron feel, with modern comforts. It’s right next to downtown, so you can walk there from many hotels.
What to expect:
- Cheer on the Baltimore Orioles surrounded by passionate local fans.
- Try ballpark classics plus local favorites like crab dip fries.
- Take a stadium tour if you visit when there isn’t a game.
Even if you’re not big into baseball, the energy here on game day is contagious—and tickets are often more affordable than in some bigger cities.
7. Discover Hampden’s Local Vibe
A bit north of downtown,
Hampden is Baltimore’s cool, artsy neighborhood with a strong local flavor.
Picture rowhouses with bright paint jobs, funky shops, and restaurants that feel like neighborhood hangouts. The main strip along 36th Street, often called “The Avenue,” is where you’ll find most of the action.
In Hampden, you can:
- Shop for vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and quirky gifts.
- Grab coffee at an indie café and watch local life unfold.
- Visit during the famous “HonFest” or the over-the-top holiday lights on 34th Street (if you’re in town in December).
If you like seeing the “real” side of a city—not just the touristy spots—set aside a few hours for Hampden.
8. Learn and Play at the Maryland Science Center
Traveling with kids or just curious by nature? The
Maryland Science Center at the Inner Harbor is a hands-on museum that makes science feel fun, not boring.
Inside you’ll find:
- Interactive exhibits about space, dinosaurs, the human body, and more.
- A planetarium with shows about stars and planets.
- An IMAX theater with educational and nature films.
One of the nice things about this science center is that it works for different ages. Little kids can climb and explore, while older kids (and adults) can dive deeper into the details.
If you’re planning a rainy day activity in Baltimore, this is a solid choice.
9. Take a Day Trip to Baltimore County’s Parks and Towns
When you’re ready to step outside the city,
Baltimore County offers peaceful parks, small towns, and rolling countryside just a short drive away.
Here are a few ideas:
- Gunpowder Falls State Park – Hike wooded trails, fish, or tube down the river on a hot day.
- Loch Raven Reservoir – Enjoy quiet walking paths, bird-watching, and scenic views of the water.
- Towson – A college town with shops, restaurants, and a different pace from downtown Baltimore.
If you’re in Baltimore for more than a weekend, adding a half-day or full-day trip into the county gives you a nice balance between city energy and nature.
10. Taste Baltimore’s Famous Food (Yes, That Means Crab)
You can’t talk about
things to do in Baltimore without talking about food—especially
Maryland blue crabs.
Around the city and county, you’ll see signs for “crab feasts” and “steamed crabs.” This usually means fresh crabs steamed with a generous dusting of Old Bay seasoning, dumped onto paper-covered tables, and eaten with wooden mallets and your hands. It’s messy, social, and very Baltimore.
Other local favorites to try:
- Crab cakes – Look for ones that are mostly crab meat, not filler.
- Crab dip – Creamy, cheesy, and often served with bread or pretzels.
- Berger Cookies – Soft cookies with thick chocolate icing, unique to Baltimore.
Even if you’re not a seafood lover, Baltimore’s food scene has grown a lot, with farm-to-table restaurants, global flavors, and great casual spots in almost every neighborhood.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Baltimore Adventure
Baltimore is often called a “small big city.” It has the cultural attractions and sports of a major urban area, but the neighborhoods feel tight-knit and personal. You can spend the morning at a world-class museum, the afternoon in a quirky district like Hampden or Fells Point, and the evening at a ballgame or crab house.
If you’re building your own
Baltimore travel itinerary, try mixing a few waterfront activities, at least one museum, a local neighborhood walk, and a taste of classic Maryland seafood. That way, you’ll experience both the tourist highlights and the local flavor.
What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Baltimore Spots
Have you visited Baltimore or Baltimore County before?
- Which of these things to do in Baltimore would you put first on your list?
- Do you have a favorite crab house, bar, or hidden-gem park we should know about?
Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories and suggestions. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to Maryland or looking for their next East Coast getaway.
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