Crab Cakes, Cobblestones, and Charm: Why You Should Take a Trip to Baltimore

Baltimore, Maryland—affectionately called Charm City by those in the know—has something wonderful for every visitor: plenty of history, amazing food, gorgeous waterfront views, and a unique mix of glamour and grit that makes the city stand apart from other Mid-Atlantic cities.

If you’re planning a trip to the East Coast, it’d be a shame if you missed out on Baltimore. Here are just a few reasons to add it to your must-see list!

The Baltimore Waterfront

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is a can’t-miss destination for visitors. This waterfront offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll along its scenic promenade, explore quirky local shops, or snap photos of the historic ships docked nearby. Climb aboard the USS Constellation or the USS Torsk, a WWII-era submarine, for a dose of maritime history.

By day, enjoy sweeping views of the city skyline reflected in the harbor’s sparkling waters. By night, the skyline lights up in a dazzling display, creating the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening or a night out with friends. While you’re there, pop into the National Aquarium to marvel at marine life or take a water taxi to nearby neighborhoods like Fells Point or Canton for even more waterfront charm.

Amazing Food

Baltimore’s food scene is as bold and flavorful as the city itself. No visit is complete without diving into the local specialty: crab cakes. Whether you enjoy them at an upscale waterfront restaurant or a no-frills spot tucked into a neighborhood corner, you’ll taste the city’s seafood pride in every bite. Feeling adventurous? Add some crab dip or steamed crabs dusted with Old Bay seasoning—a Baltimore staple that locals put on just about everything.

Not a seafood fan? Don’t worry—this city has something for everyone. Sink your teeth into Pit Beef, Baltimore’s smoky, juicy answer to barbecue, served with horseradish sauce and piled high on a Kaiser roll. And don’t forget dessert! Swing by Berger’s for one of their famous cookies: soft, buttery shortbread topped with thick chocolate icing, a local favorite for over a century. Whatever your tastes, Baltimore’s culinary scene is guaranteed to satisfy.

Beautiful Hotels

No trip to Baltimore would be complete without a fantastic hotel to stay in (especially since one day in the city just isn’t enough), and the good news is that luxury hotels in Baltimore MD are all around—you can take your pick (and you should). A few neighborhoods to check out:

• Mount Vernon: Filled with museums, shops, and historic buildings
• Brewer’s Hill: Fun to visit if you love breweries and live music
• Federal Hill: A beautiful spot at the Inner Harbor with historic row houses
• Hampden: An eclectic neighborhood where you can feel at home with hipsters and artists
• Harbor East: Waterfront views with a luxe feel

Lots Of History

If you’re a lover of history, Baltimore is like stepping into a living, breathing time capsule. Founded in 1729, the city is bursting with stories waiting to be uncovered. Start your journey at Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner, where you can explore the fort and learn more about our country’s storied past.

Then, head over to Mount Vernon, Baltimore’s historic cultural hub. Stroll through streets lined with 19th-century architecture, visit the iconic Washington Monument (the country’s first!), and lose yourself in the treasures of the Peabody Library.

For maritime enthusiasts, the historic ships in Baltimore offer an incredible dive into naval history, with vessels like the USS Constellation—a Civil War-era ship you can climb aboard—and the Chesapeake lightship.

Don’t miss Fells Point, a charming waterfront neighborhood that once bustled with shipbuilders and sailors. Walk its cobblestone streets, visit historic taverns, and learn about its role in the Underground Railroad at the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park.

From African American heritage sites like the Reginald F. Lewis Museum to the Baltimore Museum of Industry, which showcases the city’s rich industrial past, Baltimore offers a history lesson at every turn. Whether you’re peering into the past at a museum or soaking up the stories behind its vibrant neighborhoods, this city will leave you inspired and informed.

Featured image by Ricky Beron on Unsplash