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There are so many fun and interesting things to do in Baltimore, a city that is far too often overlooked by tourists en route to neighboring Washington DC.
Be sure to include Baltimore in your East Coast road trip itinerary and don’t skip these top attractions and activities!
From the ever-popular Inner Harbor area and beyond, everyone from sports fans to history buffs to nature lovers will find something fun to do.
Take the kids to the many family-friendly museums and attractions or enjoy the nightlife and live music venues across the city.
It’s all in our guide to the best Baltimore sightseeing and activities!
Baltimore is one of our favorite day trips from DC if you do base yourself in the capital city.
You might also like our guide to the best things to do in DC while you’re there.
And for the ultimate Maryland adventure, check our MD bucket list guide.
Fun Things to Do in Baltimore, Maryland
Pier Six Pavilion
Pier Six Pavilion (731 Eastern Ave) is one of the best things to do in Baltimore, MD for music lovers.
The outdoor stage is well known for hosting diverse live acts, ranging from legendary rock bands and pop stars to up-and-coming hip-hop and EDM artists.
Check out their latest performance schedule for tickets and sing along to the songs you love under the stars.
Fells Point
Minutes from the Inner Harbor by car, the Fells Point neighborhood is a vibrant historic district that retains much of its original architecture from centuries past.
There are dozens of fantastic dining options, from cozy cafes to high-end restaurants.
While there are tons of things to do in Fells Point, stopping in at Mo’s Seafood (219 S. President Street) is a favorite recommendation for a must-do in Baltimore.
This 1940’s gem is known for its famous jumbo lump crabcakes, stuffed flounder, and mile-high desserts.
Go there hungry!
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
The Children’s Museum (35 Market Place) is an engaging, captivating destination for kids and one of the best Baltimore attractions for families.
The museum features interactive exhibitions, creative programming, and educational activities.
From hands-on exploration to thought-provoking conversations, the Children’s Museum provides young minds a unique opportunity to learn about the world around them.
This museum keeps kids and parents entertained with its ever-changing displays and engaging activities.
Power Plant Live!
Adjacent to the Inner Harbor, Power Plant Live! (34 Market Place) is a popular entertainment and dining center that caters to an enthusiastic crowd.
It features various waterside restaurants, bars and pubs, live music venues, comedy clubs, and event spaces.
If you’re looking for things to do in Baltimore for a night out on the town, this is a go-to spot.
Paddle Boating at the Inner Harbor
For one of the most iconic activities in Baltimore, enjoy a fun, leisurely paddle boating experience!
With a wide variety of paddle boats available to rent right at the dock, you can explore the Inner Harbor in style while creating lasting memories with family and friends.
Check out the Chessie Dragon Paddle Boats and Electric Pirate Ships from the Living Classrooms Foundation (located by the World Trade Center at 301 E. Pratt Street), which are available on a first-come first-served basis.
Paddle boating is also a great way to exercise, soak up some sun, and relax on the water.
Love the outdoors? Check out our guide to the best MD state parks too.
USS Constellation Ship
The majestic USS Constellation (301 E. Pratt Street) is one of the most iconic vessels to ever dock in the Inner Harbor and has become a top Baltimore attraction for locals and visitors alike.
The Navy initially commissioned the ship in 1855 as a sloop-of-war.
Now restored to its former glory, its decks are open to visitors who can tour the vessel and learn about its significance in American naval history.
The Inner Harbor Waterfront
The Inner Harbor Waterfront (561 Light Street) has to be one of the most popular places to go in Baltimore for visitors from all over.
The Inner Harbor began its initial development in the late 1700s.
From being a bustling port to becoming a popular tourist destination, the Inner Harbor Waterfront has experienced numerous economic and cultural changes.
There are so many things to do in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, including many walkable attractions, street performers, sightseeing cruises, festivals such as Artscape and Honfest, restaurants, and premium shops to explore along the waterfront.
You can’t skip this must-do in Baltimore!
The American Visionary Art Museum
The American Visionary Art Museum (800 Key Highway) is a unique institution that showcases the works of creative, self-taught artists.
It celebrates those who use unconventional materials or techniques to communicate ideas and emotions through their artwork.
Be sure to buy tickets to the museum or RSVP for exhibitions and unique events.
The Maryland Science Center
The Maryland Science Center (601 Light Street) is a renowned science museum with many interactive exhibits.
It offers educational and recreational activities such as live science demonstrations, hands-on labs, and planetarium shows.
The Science Center also has an IMAX theater which shows some of the latest science-related films and an observatory where you can view the night sky.
Cross Street Market
Lively, energetic Cross Street Market (1065 S Charles Street) has served the city for over 150 years.
Plan a weekend visit to this bustling outdoor market, which features various vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, antiques, collectibles, vintage clothing, and jewelry that won’t break the bank.
The market also has a cultural melting pot of eateries to satisfy just about any hunger.
Domino Sugar Refinery
The Domino Sugar Refinery is an iconic landmark attraction that has provided sweet treats to the local area since the early 1900s.
Although tours are unavailable to the public, it’s still a stunning piece of industrial architecture that stands tall in the heart of downtown and remains a symbol of the city’s proud history and culture.
View and take pictures of the famous Domino building sign by hopping aboard a paddle boat, water taxi, or Inner Harbor cruise.
Fort McHenry’s Historic Bike Trail
The Fort McHenry Seawall Trail (2400 E Fort Ave) was initially part of the city’s defense system.
Along its two-mile stretch are monuments commemorating the War of 1812 and other historical events that shaped our nation.
The trail allows outdoor enthusiasts to bike the scenic route along the Patapsco River.
During spring, it’s one of the places you can visit to see the cherry blossoms in Maryland.
Horseshoe Casino
Horseshoe Casino (1525 Russell Street) is a Caesar’s property with over 2,200 of the latest slot machines, video poker games, table games, and a well-stocked bar offering signature cocktails.
The casino also features various dining options, including award-winning restaurants like Gordon Ramsay Steak.
Camden Yards or M&T Bank Stadium
If you are a diehard sports fan, take advantage of a game at Camden Yards (333 W. Camden Street), home to the professional championship, the Baltimore Orioles
Or, just half a mile away, head to M&T Bank Stadium, home to the other local professional championship team, the Baltimore Ravens.
Both of these baseball and football stadiums offer concession stands, luxury suites, and seating areas with spectacular field views.
There are also multiple restaurants, retail stores, and special events venues in the nearby area.
B&O Railroad Museum
Featuring over 200 years of artifacts, photographs, and documents, the B&O Railroad Museum (901 W. Pratt Street) offers an insightful look into the evolution of transportation in America.
Various interactive exhibits allow you to experience what it was like working on a steam engine and explore the impact of railroads on commerce and industry.
If you love trains, climb aboard a real steam engine, and learn more about American railway history.
Edgar Allen Poe House
The Edgar Allan Poe House (203 N. Amity Street) was once home to acclaimed poet and author Edgar Allan Poe.
The Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation restored its original 19th-century appearance.
Here, you can journey through the life of one of America’s most famous literary figures while learning about the city’s rich history.
Book online to reserve your visit.
Lexington Market
Founded in 1782, Lexington Market (112 N Eutaw St) is a historic public market located in the heart of downtown.
The market features over 100 vendors, offering an incredible selection of fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
In addition to traditional merchants, Lexington Market also features an abundance of eateries serving up classic area dishes such as crab cakes and pit beef sandwiches.
The Hippodrome Theatre
The Hippodrome Theatre (12 N. Eutaw Street) has entertained audiences since 1914.
It is an exquisite venue for Broadway plays, music concerts, and comedy shows and has onsite and nearby dining options.
The Walters Art Museum
The Walters Art Museum (600 N Charles Street) is a remarkable cultural attraction.
With more than 30,000 objects on display, the museum provides a diverse collection and includes works from Egypt, the Near East, Europe, and America.
The museum also hosts educational programs and a variety of special exhibitions.
Both the Hippodrome and the Walters Art Museum are popular things to do in Downtown Baltimore, which includes a variety of cultural attractions in a concentrated area.
Charm City Cakes
Founded by Duff Goldman, Charm City Cakes (2936 Remington Avenue) has become a household name, thanks to appearances on TV shows such as “Ace of Cakes” and “Duff Till Dawn.”
Charm City’s delicious baked goods have innovative flavors, quality ingredients, and beautiful presentation.
Check their calendar for cake decoration classes and their popular kids’ cake camp.
Baltimore Museum of Art
Visiting the Baltimore Museum of Art (10 Art Museum Drive) is a must-do activity.
Marvel at the incredible artwork on display from various eras and styles, as well as participate in exciting educational events and programs.
Final Words
Are you feeling ready to plan your trip with all these fun things to do in Baltimore? We hope so!
Share your favorite activities and attractions in the comments below.