Things to do in  Maryland

Despite its name, San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood does not border the water and has no sandy spots. But its position between Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and the Embarcadero makes it one of the city’s most popular areas for visitors and locals, all of whom enjoy its Italian eateries, Beat history, quiet park, and nightlife scene.

Baltimore’s revitalized Inner Harbor features a scenic waterfront promenade and pedestrian district replete with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Situated along the Patapsco River at the mouth of Jones Falls, the area includes harborfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood and other specialties, the Baltimore Visitor Center, the pyramid-shaped National Aquarium, the Historic Ships in Baltimore Maritime Museum, the Maryland Science Center, and the Port Discovery Children’s Museum.

Baltimore’s National Aquarium is the star of the Inner Harbor and home to more than 700 species. There's much to do at this massive aquarium: Stop by the sensory 4D immersion theater to experience high-definition 3D film alongside special effects such as mist and wind; visit the Australian exhibit with crocodiles and kookaburras; and check out Shark Alley, where the predators circle visitors inside a 225,000-gallon (852,000-liter) ring-shaped tank.

Cobbled streets and a waterfront setting make Fell’s Point a must-see location in Baltimore. This charming neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and maintains much of its maritime past. Dine on local crabs at the area’s seafood eateries, and don’t miss the nightlife—Fell’s Point is known for its bar scene.

Critical events changed the course of history at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, where soldiers successfully saved the city from British attack in 1812. Inspired by the sight of the American flag waving over the fort after the attack, Francis Scott Key was moved to write the United States’ national anthem.

One of the oldest scientific institutions in the United States, the Maryland Science Center (MSC) in Baltimore has been attracting visitors of all ages since it opened in 1976. Across its three floors, you’ll find exhibits, a planetarium, and an observatory. Hands-on activities and demonstrations are designed to be engaging and fun, to get folks excited about science.

An historic Baltimore neighborhood situated on the Chesapeake Bay, Canton is an ideal stop for travelers that want a dose of outdoor recreation and easy access to the waterfront. The hub of the neighborhood is Canton Square, a patch of green surrounded by sophisticated restaurants, galleries, and shops.

Its prime location makes Baltimore’s Federal Hill a popular spot for visitors. Located just south of Inner Harbor, the neighborhood offers a large selection of city attractions within walking distance. Stroll to the National Aquarium, Harborplace, Oriole Park at Camden Yards, and the Maryland Science Center, along with many other destinations. Plus, catch harbor views from its namesake hill.

Baltimore’s B&O Railroad Museum is one of the biggest museums devoted to locomotives in the US. The collection of historic trains and rolling stock, buildings, tracks, and artifacts tells the story of Baltimore & Ohio Railroad’s impact on the industry. An on-site restoration facility repairs equipment.

Home to multiple generations of Italian-American families, Baltimore’s Little Italy neighborhood draws visitors to its colorful festivals and community events. Most, however, come here to eat, and eat well. The neighborhood is filled with much-loved, longtime restaurants serving up dishes “just like mamma made.”

Travel back to the early 1800s at Baltimore’s Star-Spangled Banner Flag House. This was the home and workspace of Mary Pickersgill in 1813, when she sewed the flag that flew over Fort McHenry and inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that would later become the national anthem.

Baseball fans shouldn’t miss a visit to the birthplace of George Herman “Babe” Ruth in Baltimore. The well-preserved, humble row house includes the upstairs bedroom where the baseball player was born, plus displays of family memorabilia, sports paraphernalia, and Ruthian records. The museum also highlights the history of the Baltimore Orioles, Ravens, and Colts, and other regional sports teams.

A visit to the Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum is a journey into the mind of the famous American writer. Built in Baltimore in 1930, the unassuming 5-room row house is a shrine to Poe, who lived here for two years. The museum showcases Poe’s daily life and writings he penned in the home, while his grave is at nearby Westminster Hall.

When Baltimoreans need a breath of fresh air, they make a beeline to Patterson Park. Covering more than 133 acres (54 hectares) of green space in southeast Baltimore, the park offers plenty of recreational activities for locals and visitors, and its centerpiece, the Patterson Park Observatory (formerly “Pagoda”) is a favorite of photographers.

For a rocking dining experience in Charm City, head for the Hard Rock Cafe, one of Baltimore’s most popular, entertaining places to dine on the water. Set in the bustling Inner Harbor, the restaurant is housed in the historic Power Plant, which was built in 1900 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.