11 Things to Do in Baltimore According to the Locals 

Officially founded in 1729, Baltimore is the most populous city in Maryland, with 569,931 residents as of 2022. The city has played a significant role in its share of historical events, including the American Revolution and the War of 1812, to name just a couple. Baltimore also pioneered the use of gas lighting, established the first post office system, and shared the world’s first telegraph line, running between Baltimore and Washington, DC. 

While its role in history is monumental, people appreciate present-day Baltimore for its gorgeous architecture, delicious seafood, exciting sports culture, and charming atmosphere (hence the nickname “Charm City”). There are plenty of practical perks to living in Baltimore, as well. For example, along with Raleigh, NC, Bloomberg labeled Baltimore as one of 2024’s best cities to find a first job for recent graduates. Its high affordability and reasonable cost of living draw people from all over the country, as does its proximity to some of the largest metropolitan areas in the US.  

From beating the heat with a snowball to enjoying the glittering skyline at night, people of all ages and interests can find fun things to do in this unique and fascinating city. Whether you’re a tourist, a new resident, or are simply interested in what the city has to offer, read on for some fun suggestions from the locals for things to do in Baltimore!

1. Go on a walkabout and get to know the locals

As the editor of Baltimore Magazine, Michael Anthony Farley knows a thing or two about what to do in his fair city, but he recommends slowing down and getting to know the lay of the land first. “My number one favorite Baltimore activity is walking and all the detours along the way,” says Farley. “The advice I always give to people when they’re moving to Baltimore—or even just visiting—is to pick a cool, walkable neighborhood that’s either on the same transit line or walking distance to your primary destination (work, school, a conference you’re in town for, etc.). Having to rely on a car can be stressful, but it mostly deprives you of so many great “only in Baltimore” moments! Baltimoreans are so friendly and eccentric, so the people-watching in this city is priceless. I love taking the bus to my office in the morning and having a stranger strike up a conversation about anything from music to politics, and slowly walking home after work, meandering through one of our Olmstead-designed parks, popping into new food businesses I’ve never noticed before, or happy hour at a dive bar where everyone knows each other’s names. That’s the kind of spontaneity people can’t enjoy if they’re driving a car, and they have to park or even ride an Uber.”

2. Go on an artist’s scavenger hunt

Farley also recommended checking out the city’s art scene. “All of Baltimore feels like a choose-your-own-adventure scavenger hunt—even for me, who has lived here off-and-on all of my life. I love how many hidden gems of public art or free museums (from one of the world’s best collections of Matisse and Picasso at the BMA to antiquities and Renaissance through 19th-century masterpieces at the Walters) and cutting-edge, informal art spaces there are in this city. Can you believe we have a Romare Bearden mosaic in the subway?! I just discovered it last month! We actually just published an article about the Pat Alexander mosaics in the Lexington Market metro station, which are my favorites.” 

“A few blocks away, my dear friends run a gallery/bar/performance venue with artist studios called Current Space, which is one of the best places in the city to see new art or music. Baltimore has so many great DIY art spaces, but few with the regular hours and ability to just pop in on your way home from the metro (Lexington Market) or light rail (Center Street) and have a cocktail on the patio like you can do at Current.”  

3. Learn a little about Baltimore’s history

“By far, one of the top things to do when visiting Baltimore is to check out the local museums and heritage sites,” says Chris Sniezek, executive director of the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House Association. “Baltimore is home to over 60 museums, including the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum, B&O Railroad Museum, The Peale Museum, Jewish Museum of Maryland, Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House and Museum.”  

To really understand Baltimore’s pivotal role in our nation’s history, Sniezek recommends an afternoon browsing the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House and Museum. “Pay a visit to Fort McHenry where you can learn about the bombardment of the fort by the British and the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House where the flag which inspired the National Anthem was sewn,” he says. “I find the best history is told through place-based interpretation, and both these sites, on their own and in conjunction, make for a robust telling of Baltimore’s early history and national importance. Fort McHenry is located just past Locust Point while the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House is only a five-minute walk past the National Aquarium downtown.” 

Good to know: The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 3 pm. They’re closed on Sunday and Monday. 

4. Get to know Edgar Allan Poe

“You can’t come to Baltimore and not see Edgar Allan Poe,” says Enrica Jang, director of Poe Baltimore, an organization devoted to preserving the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum and celebrating the legacy of one of Baltimore’s most famous residents. “And not just the man himself—as he’s, of course, buried here at Westminster Hall & Burying Ground—but his spirit lives on, and you see his image and legacy all over the city in everything from historic sites to murals to sports (our Baltimore Ravens are the only NFL team named for a poem).”  

“To get the most Poe for your trip, we recommend our city bus tour that includes the Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum plus stops at the Annabel Lee Tavern, Poe’s statue at UMBC, and the site of the author’s death. Catch a show at Poe’s Magic Theatre in the historic (and haunted!) Lord Baltimore Hotel. In October, join us for the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards!” 

Good to know: The Poe House is open for tours Thursday through Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. You must make a reservation to visit the museum through their booking page. 

5. Enjoy Inner Harbor

Hailey Summers of We Clean Baltimore (a cleaning service dedicated to Baltimore and its surrounding areas) had a few suggestions for things to see and do in the city. “Start your journey at the iconic Inner Harbor, where you can explore the National Aquarium and enjoy waterfront dining,” she says. After dinner, you can see a show at Pier Six Pavilion or pick up a couple of souvenirs at the visitor’s center. Inner Harbor also features a collection of floating museums where you can tour four historical ships and a lighthouse to learn about Baltimore’s contribution to maritime history. The highlight of the tours is the USS Constellation, the only ship remaining from the Civil War! 

6. Hang in Hampden

“For a unique experience, stroll through the quirky neighborhood of Hampden, known for its eclectic shops, street art, and restaurants,” suggested Summers. The area was originally a 19th-century mill town with a fascinating history. Take a self-guided walking tour and visit the Baltimore Streetcar Museum to learn about the area’s background. You can also hitch a ride on one of the streetcars and enjoy Hampden’s unique blend of historic charm and modern flair.    

Good to know: The Streetcar Museum has rotating hours depending on the season, so check out their website before you go.

7. Catch a game

Baltimore is known for its professional sports teams, too, and there’s no better way to mingle with the natives than joining the excitement. “Sports fans can catch a Ravens game at M&T Bank Stadium or an Orioles game at Camden Yards,” says Summers. Oriole Park at Camden Yards is known for its distinctive retro-style design and is considered one of the most beautiful ballparks in the country. If you’re into college sports, you can visit the gorgeous University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) campus to watch some men’s basketball or Johns Hopkins University to check out a match featuring one of the University’s powerhouse lacrosse teams.  

8. Check out the Farmer’s Market

“One of my top things to do in Baltimore is to visit the Farmer’s Market on Sundays while it is open,” says chef, cookbook author, local TV personality, and Savory Experiments founder Jessica Formicola. “You get such a fun snapshot of Maryland foods and get to talk to the producers. Farmers, ranchers, and restaurants all meet in the same area and are open for discussion.”  

The market features fresh produce, meat and dairy, baked goods, and plants and flowers. You’ll also find artisanal products and ready-to-eat offerings for all tastes. They often have live music performances, chef demonstrations, seasonal celebrations, and activities and entertainment for the kiddos to enjoy.  

Good to know: The market typically runs from early April through late December and is open on Sundays from 7 am to 12 pm, rain or shine. 

9. Don’t miss the crab

“Of course, anyone visiting Maryland needs to experience our famous crabs! Whether you want a crabcake, a soft-shell crab, or to pick crabs right out of the shell, Jimmy’s Seafood is your go-to destination. Their friendly staff will also show first-timers how to pick their own crabs!”  

Good to know: “Make a reservation,” adds Formicola, “this is a hot spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s not really walkable, so plan for an Uber or to drive.”  

10. Marvel at the Peabody Library

“Even though I am a foodie, I am also a book lover, and I take all of my visitors to the George Peabody Library,” Formicola suggests. “It’s a stunning building with loads of history, and you can get amazing photos!”  

Since 1982, the Peabody has been part of the Johns Hopkins University Sheridan Libraries, making it a great research spot for history buffs as well as visitors who just want to take in the breathtaking 61-foot atrium with five tiers of ornamental cast-iron balconies, black-and-white marble floors, and gold-scalloped columns. The library hosts lectures, book talks, and cultural events for everyone to enjoy. 

Good to know: You can take a guided library tour to learn more about its history, architecture, and collections. Hours may vary, so it’s best to check out their website for the most current information.  

11. Check out the Flower Mart in Mt. Vernon

“Lastly, the Flower Mart,” says Formicola. “Also amazing for the senses, you can even get a famous Lemon Stick, a lemonade drink sucked through a peppermint straw from a fresh lemon. It is located in the historic Mt. Vernon neighborhood and is free to visit. After visiting, be sure to explore the other architecture around Mt. Vernon, as well as the historic homes.”  

Prepare to be charmed by Charm City!

From its profound historical significance to its rich cultural heritage and eclectic neighborhoods full of friendly Baltimoreans, Charm City is a must-visit destination! We hope these suggestions give you some inspo for things to do. Whether you choose to spend a day strolling around Mount Vernon or Canton, or you decide to find out what all the crab fuss is about (we promise you won’t regret it!), you’ll have a fantastic time!