Many of the city’s biggest attractions encircle Inner Harbor, as well as its top seafood restaurants making it an ideal area to stay for the keen tourist and foodie. It is also just a few moments from Downtown, providing the best of both worlds.
Discerning travellers may prefer to stay in Harbor East, an upscale neighbourhood on the far east edge of Inner Harbor with the city’s most luxurious hotels.
However, with Lexington Market and a host of top restaurants serving international cuisine, Downtown competes for the top spot for foodies. This area also has a thriving theatre scene for those looking for a blend of culture and entertainment.
Sitting at the top end of Downtown is Mount Vernon, the historic district featuring centuries old landmarks and hip new bars. Thanks to its diversity and inclusivity, the neighbourhood is popular with the LGBTQ+ community, and has an excellent nightlife.
To immerse in Baltimore’s edgy and artistic side, stay in the Bromo Arts District, which sits immediately west of Downtown. Its colourful and quirky streets you’ll find performing arts venues and studios, as well as quirky shops and eateries.
The historic Fells Point on the Patapsco River and Charles Village by Johns Hopkins University are also popular with creatives and hipsters. Along with art studios and galleries, you’ll find plenty of fashion boutiques, record shops, book shops to spend your days browsing through.
Hampden is yet another cool and hip area to stay, but it offers a quieter and more wholesome family vibe for young families to enjoy. Although Federal Hill is a trendy and upscale inner-city neighbourhood, it also offers a quieter and more community-led vibe.
There is a metro that runs from downtown to Reisterstown in northwest Baltimore, but for those who aren’t staying near a station or stop, the best way to explore the city is on foot or via taxi.