Experience Baltimore
Baltimore is a vibrant waterfront city rich in adventures, with thriving industries and an unwavering passion for neighborhood culture. Dive into this guide to uncover the best experiences before or after your sessions. Whether you’re in the mood for a stroll through history, breathtaking harbor views, whimsical art, or savoring classic local bites, Baltimore promises to delight and inspire!
Baltimore: a quick history snapshot
Founded in 1729, Baltimore grew into one of America’s most important ports—an identity that still shows up in its working waterfront, seafood traditions, and maritime museums. In the early 1800s, the city became a hub for shipbuilding, trade, and new American industry, drawing waves of residents who shaped distinct neighborhoods and food cultures.
One of Baltimore’s most iconic sites is Fort McHenry, where the defense of the harbor during the War of 1812 inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Nearby areas like Fells Point and Federal Hill reflect the city’s nautical roots, while the Inner Harbor showcases Baltimore’s modern renaissance as a walkable destination for museums, dining, and skyline views.
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES
Easy wins between sessions
Walk the Inner Harbor promenade
Walk the Inner Harbor promenade for water views, people-watching, and quick access to shops and attractions.
Visit Fort McHenry National Monument
Visit Fort McHenry National Monument (history lovers): tour the fort and enjoy wide-open views of the harbor.
Explore Fells Point
Explore Fells Point: cobblestone streets, historic waterfront vibes, boutiques, and pubs—great for an evening stroll.
See the National Aquarium
See the National Aquarium: a classic Baltimore stop if you have a few hours and want an indoor option.
American Visionary Art Museum
American Visionary Art Museum: playful, one-of-a-kind exhibits featuring self-taught and outsider artists.
Walters Art Museum (Mount Vernon)
Walters Art Museum (Mount Vernon): a beautiful, approachable collection in one of the city’s most historic districts.
Federal Hill Park
Federal Hill Park: a short climb for one of the best skyline photos of the Inner Harbor.
Catch an Orioles game at Camden Yards
Catch an Orioles game at Camden Yards: a top-tier ballpark experience and an easy add-on to your schedule.
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES
Easy wins between sessions
Walk the Inner Harbor promenade
Walk the Inner Harbor promenade for water views, people-watching, and quick access to shops and attractions.
Visit Fort McHenry National Monument
Visit Fort McHenry National Monument (history lovers): tour the fort and enjoy wide-open views of the harbor.
Explore Fells Point
Explore Fells Point: cobblestone streets, historic waterfront vibes, boutiques, and pubs—great for an evening stroll.
See the National Aquarium
See the National Aquarium: a classic Baltimore stop if you have a few hours and want an indoor option.
American Visionary Art Museum
American Visionary Art Museum: playful, one-of-a-kind exhibits featuring self-taught and outsider artists.
Walters Art Museum (Mount Vernon)
Walters Art Museum (Mount Vernon): a beautiful, approachable collection in one of the city’s most historic districts.
Federal Hill Park
Federal Hill Park: a short climb for one of the best skyline photos of the Inner Harbor.
Catch an Orioles game at Camden Yards
Catch an Orioles game at Camden Yards: a top-tier ballpark experience and an easy add-on to your schedule.
Areas to Grab a Bite
- Inner Harbor / Harbor East: Convenient for conference downtime—look for seafood spots, quick lunch counters, and waterfront dining (reservations recommended for prime dinner times).
- Fells Point: Great for a relaxed dinner plus a walk—seafood, neighborhood taverns, and dessert stops are all close together.
- Federal Hill: A lively choice for casual bites, brunch, and post-meeting drinks; easy access to the waterfront.
- Mount Vernon: A charming, historic district with cafés and date-night options near museums and beautiful architecture.
- Hampden: Eclectic main-street energy with creative restaurants, bakeries, and vintage shops—ideal if you want to explore beyond the harbor.
MUST-TRY BALTIMORE BITES
Don’t leave without these local staples
Maryland crab cakes
Look for lump crab and minimal filler; many menus offer broiled or pan-seared versions.
Steamed blue crabs (in season)
A classic hands-on meal—best enjoyed with friends and plenty of napkins.
Old Bay–seasoned everything
Fries, wings, popcorn, and even rimmed cocktails—Baltimore loves its signature seasoning.
Pit beef sandwich
Char-grilled beef, sliced thin, often topped with onions and a punchy horseradish sauce.
Berger cookies
A Baltimore favorite—soft cookies with a thick layer of chocolate fudge icing.
Lemon stick
A quirky local treat—pierce a lemon with a peppermint stick and sip the sweet-tart juice through it.
Snowballs (seasonal)
Finely shaved ice with syrups and optional marshmallow topping—a warm-weather Baltimore tradition.
MUST-TRY BALTIMORE BITES
Don’t leave without these local staples
Maryland crab cakes
Look for lump crab and minimal filler; many menus offer broiled or pan-seared versions.
Steamed blue crabs (in season)
A classic hands-on meal—best enjoyed with friends and plenty of napkins.
Old Bay–seasoned everything
Fries, wings, popcorn, and even rimmed cocktails—Baltimore loves its signature seasoning.
Pit beef sandwich
Char-grilled beef, sliced thin, often topped with onions and a punchy horseradish sauce.
Berger cookies
A Baltimore favorite—soft cookies with a thick layer of chocolate fudge icing.
Lemon stick
A quirky local treat—pierce a lemon with a peppermint stick and sip the sweet-tart juice through it.
Snowballs (seasonal)
Finely shaved ice with syrups and optional marshmallow topping—a warm-weather Baltimore tradition.
Quick Tips
- Plan by neighborhood: Baltimore is a city of distinct areas—pick one neighborhood for an evening to maximize time.
- Make dinner reservations: Popular waterfront and weekend spots book up quickly.
- Build in walking time: Harbor walks are scenic but can take longer than expected (especially with stops for photos and coffee).
- Ask about local specials: Many restaurants feature seasonal crab dishes and Maryland ingredients.