Exploring Baltimore, Maryland: Top 14 Must-Visit Attractions
Let's Take a Memorable Weekend Trip to Baltimore's Charming Side
Baltimore, Maryland, a short hour north of Washington, D.C, is a city brimming with culture, history, and friendly vibes. Here's a guide to help you maximize your weekend in Charm City. You'll be spoiled for choice with the numerous sights, eateries, and shops to explore.
What To Do
Marvel at the City's Museums
Art admirers will find plenty to captivate them, with museums such as:
- The Walters Art Museum: Home to an impressive 36,000 artifacts from around the world, including ancient Egyptian and Renaissance pieces, as well as medieval arms and armor[1][2].
- Baltimore Museum of Art: Boasting over 95,000 objects, including 1,000 works by Matisse.
- Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture: Delves into African American history and culture through various artifacts dating back to 1784[5].
- American Visionary Art Museum: Celebrates self-taught artists and their unique, often quirky art pieces[4].
- Baltimore Museum of Industry: Offers a human perspective on the city’s industrial past, housed in the historic 19th-century Platt and Company Oyster Cannery building[2].
- National Great Blacks in Wax Museum: Showcases life-like wax figures of influential African Americans[2].

Get Up Close and Personal with Animals
Baltimore is home to two fantastic spot for family fun - the Maryland Zoo and the National Aquarium. Both are perfect destinations for kids as well as grown-ups.
Stroll and Shop in Hampden
Hampden is a neighborhood filled with boutiques, antique stores, and more. Wander its charming streets and visit our top picks:
- In Watermelon Sugar: A shop selling candles, perfumes, kitchenware, and more.
- Antique Exchange Interiors: A two-level store offering a mix of new and secondhand items.
- The Parisian Flea: A charming store filled with antique decor and numerous jewelry pieces.
- Brightside Boutique: A women's clothing store selling stylish and trendy outfits.

Watch a Game
If you're a sports fan, don't miss out on catching a Ravens or Orioles game at their respective stadiums: M&T Bank Stadium and Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
Step Back in Time at Maryland's Oldest Consignment Shop
Visit The Turnover Shop, an antique store and the oldest consignment shop in Maryland, selling art, furniture, and small decorative items. turnovershop.com, 3855 Roland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21211
Explore the Fells Point Neighborhood

This touristy part of the city is home to vibrant houses and plenty of shops. Wander its streets and find fun souvenirs to bring home!
Where To Eat
Start Your Day Right at Miss Shirley's Cafe
Known for their mouthwatering griddle cakes, this café is a must-visit for a delicious breakfast. With two Baltimore locations, you have a choice between the downtown Inner Harbor and the Roland Park neighborhood.
Mix and Mingle at the Bluebird Cocktail Room

If you're searching for a sleek, socializing spot, the Bluebird Cocktail Room should be on your list. Its extensive cocktail menu and delectable dishes make it a perfect evening destination. It opens at 5 p.m. daily and its kitchen closes at 10, but the bar stays open until 1 a.m.thebluebirdbaltimore.com, 3600 Hickory Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21211
Refuel After Shopping at Golden West Cafe
If you've worked up an appetite from shopping in Hampden, Golden West Cafe is a reliable neighborhood spot with a Southwest-inspired menu. A nearby The Charmery outlet serves delicious homemade ice cream for those craving a sweet treat. goldenwestcafe.com, 1105 W 36th St., Baltimore, MD 21211
Share a Special Moment at Coral Wig
For a romantic night out, head to this dimly-lit cocktail bar located next to the Hotel Ulysses. Its tropical drinks and charming atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a date night. thecoralwig.com, 2 E. Read St., Baltimore, MD 21202

Satisfy your appetite at Magdalena
This restaurant, located inside the Ivy Hotel, offers a French and English-inspired menu with dishes like salmon, pork chops, risotto, and more. Don't forget to indulge in an espresso martini to wrap up your meal. theivybaltimore.com, 205 E. Biddle Street, Baltimore, MD 21202
Savor Southern Cuisine at Woodberry Kitchen
Serving British classics and Maryland-style dishes, Woodberry Kitchen is a small restaurant with an intimate atmosphere. Try their famous bangers and mash, scotch eggs, or their Maryland-style fried chicken for a true taste of Baltimore. woodberrykitchen.com, 2010 Clipper Park Rd., Baltimore, MD 21211
Where To Stay
Enjoy Luxury at The Ivy Hotel
If you're seeking a comprehensive experience with amenities like a fitness center, spa, and a free cocktail station, check out The Ivy Hotel. A Relais & Châteaux property, the hotel offers spacious guest rooms, 23 fireplaces, and an elegant atmosphere. Originally commissioned in 1889, the property is a testament to Baltimore's rich history. theivybaltimore.com, 205 E. Biddle Street, Baltimore, MD 21202, (410) 514-6500
Budget-Friendly Accommodations at the Ulysses Hotel
For a more budget-friendly option with a boutique feel, consider the Ulysses Hotel. With 116 rooms and two Instagrammable bars, it's a great choice for those seeking affordability without compromising charm. ash.world/hotels/ulysses, 2 E Read St., Baltimore, MD 21202, 443-682-8578
- To truly immerse yourself in Baltimore's rich history and culture, consider extending your visit to a weekend, agreeing that a shorter trip might not be enough to fully appreciate Charm City.
- After a long day of sightseeing, you might find delight in soaking in the unique atmosphere of Coral Wig, a dimly-lit cocktail bar nestled next to the Hotel Ulysses, offering an ideal setting for a romantic night out.
- While exploring the vibrant Fells Point neighborhood, don't forget to drop by Southern Living's recommended eatery, Woodberry Kitchen, to savor British classics and Maryland-style dishes, particularly their Maryland-style fried chicken, which is known to be a local favorite.
- When planning your itinerary, be sure to include a stay at The Turnover Shop, Maryland's oldest consignment shop, where you can display an impressive collection of art, furniture, and small decorative items, all in one destination.