Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland, located northeast of the U.S. capital, Washington, D.C. Established in 1797, it is one of the oldest cities in the United States and the birthplace of the current national anthem and the Star-Spangled Banner. In 1830, the first railroad in the U.S. was opened here, and the city developed through industries such as shipbuilding and steelmaking, as well as flourishing as a trading port. Recently, the waterfront area known as the Inner Harbor has undergone significant development, featuring large shopping centers, the renowned National Aquarium in Baltimore, and maritime museums, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, Baltimore is home to notable institutions like Johns Hopkins University and numerous art and history museums. Let’s explore the must-visit attractions in Baltimore.
1. Fort McHenry
Fort McHenry, a star-shaped fort jutting out to protect Baltimore’s harbor, is one of the city's most famous tourist attractions and the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem. During the War of 1812, in 1814, the fort endured a fierce bombardment by the British Navy for 25 hours, successfully preventing the British from landing in Baltimore. Inspired by the sight of the fort's flag still flying intact, lawyer Francis Scott Key penned a poem, which later became the U.S. national anthem.
Visitors can explore the on-site visitor center, where videos recount the story of the Battle of Baltimore and the creation of the national anthem. Cannons line the fort’s grounds, offering a glimpse into its historic significance.
https://www.google.com/maps?ll=39.264101,-76.580641&z=16&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=16883187172083503634
Name: Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Address: 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230
Official/related website URL: https://www.nps.gov/fomc/index.htm
2. Baltimore Museum of Art
The Baltimore Museum of Art is renowned for holding the world’s largest collection of works by French painter Henri Matisse, often called the "Magician of Color." A must-see for modern art enthusiasts, this museum boasts over 90,000 works, making it one of the largest in the United States.
The sculpture garden features replicas of famous sculptures by artists like Rodin and Henry Moore, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages. The museum’s café and restaurant are also highly rated, and during the summer, outdoor jazz concerts add to the experience.
https://www.google.com/maps?ll=39.326167,-76.619344&z=17&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=10271934425384650017
Name: Baltimore Museum of Art
Address: 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, MD 21218
Official/related website URL: https://artbma.org/
3. National Aquarium in Baltimore
Opened in 2003, the National Aquarium in Baltimore is one of the city’s newer attractions. It houses over 660 species and more than 16,000 animals across three main exhibit areas, all designed to mimic natural habitats, offering a captivating experience.
The aquarium features popular bottlenose dolphins, reptiles like Australian crocodiles and venomous snakes, and a donut-shaped tank that lets visitors observe sharks swimming around them. Colorful tropical fish displays make it a hit for families visiting Baltimore.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.285393,-76.608398&z=17&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=14407200344612044430
Name: Baltimore National Aquarium
Address: 501 E Pratt St Baltimore, MD 21202
Official/related website URL: https://aqua.org/
4. Federal Hill Park
Federal Hill Park is located on a hill south of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The park offers a stunning panoramic view of the city, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
During the Civil War in the mid-19th century, the hill served as an observation point. The park features monuments and replica cannons commemorating the 1814 Battle of Baltimore, allowing visitors to connect with the city’s history. It also serves as a community hub with basketball courts and playgrounds, making it a relaxing spot for both tourists and locals.
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Name: Federal Hill Park
Address: 405 Warren Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21230
Official/related website URL: https://www.federalhillpark.com/
5. Baltimore Maritime Museum
The Baltimore Maritime Museum, located in the bustling Inner Harbor, is a popular attraction showcasing the city's naval history. The harbor area is a lively destination filled with attractions and restaurants, drawing families and tourists alike on weekends.
The museum features a collection of historic naval ships from the 1930s to the 1980s. Outdoors, visitors can explore a lighthouse ship from the 1930s, a lighthouse used for 130 years since 1856, and vessels like a U.S. Coast Guard ship that was present during the Pearl Harbor attack.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.285605,-76.611005&z=18&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=12678586521090698715
Name: Historic Ships in Baltimore
Address: 301 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Official/related website URL: https://historicships.org/
6. American Visionary Art Museum
The American Visionary Art Museum, located at the base of Federal Hill, is a unique museum dedicated to visionary art, which reflects creativity and self-expression using unconventional materials. Its location allows visitors to enjoy both stunning views and inspiring art.
The museum’s collection includes over 4,000 pieces made from everyday items such as old clothes, toothpicks, and scrap metal, representing deep personal expressions. Beyond the main building, exhibits in the annex feature works created from repurposed bicycles, beds, spare parts, and even oversized chess pieces.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.280421,-76.606895&z=19&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=2181694341934082487
Name: American Visionary Art Museum
Address: 800 key highway Baltimore, MD 21230
Official/related site URL: https://www.avam.org/
7. Washington Monument & Museum
While Washington, D.C., is home to a famous Washington Monument, the one in Baltimore predates it. Dedicated to the first U.S. President, George Washington, construction began in 1815 and was completed in 1829. After being temporarily closed for safety reasons in 2010, the monument reopened in 2014 following renovations.
Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for a fantastic view of Baltimore. The attached museum provides fascinating exhibits on George Washington and the history of Baltimore, making it an engaging destination for tourists.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.297528,-76.615667&z=18&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=6785195753834808184
Name: Washington Monument & Museum
Address: 699 N Charles St Baltimore, MD 21201
Official/related website URL: https://mountvernonplace.org/
8. Maryland Science Center
Located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the Maryland Science Center is one of the oldest science museums in the United States and a popular spot for visitors of all ages. Through interactive experiences, it offers a fun way to learn about science.
The museum hosts workshops in its labs where visitors can create accessories and toys, while the IMAX theater screens breathtaking footage of Baltimore and American natural wonders. The planetarium offers entertaining and educational programs, making this a must-visit for families exploring the city.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.281415,-76.611917&z=18&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=11123527145570098675
Name: Maryland Science Center
Address: 601 Light Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
Official/related website URL: https://www.mdsci.org/
9. Walters Art Museum
The Walters Art Museum was founded based on the collection of businessman William Thompson Walters. Set in the former home of the Walters family in Baltimore, the museum features an impressive array of ancient manuscripts, 19th-century European paintings, and sculptures from ancient Egypt.
The museum isn’t just known for its art collection; its three historic mansions are works of art themselves. Visitors can admire intricately decorated ceilings and Tiffany glass domes. Accessible via the free Charm City Circulator, it’s an easily reachable and rewarding destination.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.296425,-76.616498&z=19&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=15410696468075029824
Name: Walters Art Museum
Address: 600 N Charles St Baltimore, MD 21201
Official/related website URL: https://thewalters.org/
10. Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum
Babe Ruth, known as the "Sultan of Swat" and a legendary figure in baseball, was born in Baltimore in 1895. His birthplace is now a museum and a popular tourist attraction.
The museum displays photos, portraits, scorebooks, uniforms, bats, and other memorabilia associated with Babe Ruth’s life and career. Notably, plaques commemorate each of his record-setting 714 home runs, with detailed information about the pitchers and stadiums involved. Even those who aren’t baseball fans will find the exhibits captivating.
Name: Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum
Address: 216 Emory St, Baltimore, MD 21201
Official/related website URL: https://baberuthmuseum.org/
11. Top of the World (World Trade Center Baltimore)
Located on the 27th floor of Baltimore’s World Trade Center, Top of the World offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the city. From this pentagonal tower, visitors can enjoy breathtaking sights of Federal Hill, Fells Point, Inner Harbor, and other prominent areas of Baltimore, making it a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts.
Starting your visit to Baltimore here provides an excellent overview of the city's layout. The venue also hosts events and exhibitions throughout the year, with its Independence Day fireworks viewing event being especially popular among both locals and tourists.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.286074,-76.609658&z=19&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=15110934799422559543
Name: Top of the World
Address: 401 E. Pratt St. Baltimore
Official/related site URL: https://www.viewbaltimore.org/
12. Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Oriole Park at Camden Yards is the home stadium of the Baltimore Orioles MLB team. Opened in 1992, it broke away from traditional stadium design with its innovative and nostalgic architecture, earning it the nickname “Field of Dreams” for the 21st century.
Its unique combination of brick and ironwork seamlessly blends tradition with modern artistry, perfectly complementing Baltimore’s historic charm. The natural grass field and scenic views make it a favorite among fans. If you have time during your visit to Baltimore, consider attending a game to experience the vibrant atmosphere.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.283819,-76.621678&z=17&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=2605571249100277049
Name: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Address: 333 West Camden Street Baltimore MD 21201
Official/related site URL: https://www.mlb.com/orioles
13. Fells Point
Fells Point is a historic neighborhood featuring 17th-century buildings and is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. Known for its vibrant nightlife, the area is filled with converted bars and pubs, offering a lively atmosphere in the evenings.
During the day, visitors can explore burger joints, boutique shops, and antique stores. It’s also an excellent place to pick up unique souvenirs from Baltimore. Conveniently located about five minutes by car from Inner Harbor, Fells Point is ideal for sightseeing, dining, and shopping. The abundance of delicious restaurants makes it perfect for a lunch or dinner stop while touring the city.
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Name: Fells Point
Address: Fells Point, Baltimore
Official/related website URL: https://baltimore.org/neighborhoods/fells-point
◎ Summary of recommended sightseeing spots in Baltimore
This guide highlights 13 must-see attractions in Baltimore, one of the oldest cities in the United States. Known as the birthplace of the national anthem and the Star-Spangled Banner, Baltimore offers a mix of historical sites and modern developments. The revitalized Inner Harbor boasts museums, shopping centers, and family-friendly programs, making it a great destination for all ages.
In addition to the featured spots, Baltimore is packed with opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Immerse yourself in American history while enjoying the diverse attractions of this vibrant city. A visit to Baltimore promises an unforgettable experience.