How to Spend a Fun Weekend in Baltimore, Maryland
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If you’re planning on spending a weekend in Baltimore, you can expect a nice mix of history, waterfront views, and mouthwatering crab cakes. Known as “Charm City” for a reason, this waterfront gem is famous for its picturesque Inner Harbor, delicious crab cakes, and its connection to literary legend Edgar Allan Poe. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just want to enjoy a weekend of exploring, Baltimore has something for you!
Fun Fact: Did you know Baltimore is the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner?
In this blog post, I’ll share the best things to do for your weekend in Baltimore, plus some great hotel recommendations to make your stay unforgettable!
Fun things to do in Baltimore
Grab a local cup of joe
Baltimore seriously impressed me with its coffee scene! If you’re a fellow coffee lover, you’re in for a treat.
First stop: Artifact Coffee, a super cute spot just a short drive to Round Falls, perfect for starting your day. I tried their pumpkin spice latte, which wasn’t too sweet (normally I prefer sweeter coffee), but the coffee flavor was so good, I didn’t even mind!
But my absolute favorite cup from the weekend? The terrapin iced latte from Ceremony Coffee Roasters. It’s a chocolate, caramel iced latte with pistachio syrup, topped with a dash of Old Bay—yes, Old Bay! I was hesitant at first, but trust me, it’s amazing. The Old Bay is subtle but adds a fun twist that totally works. You can’t visit Baltimore without trying it!
Round Falls
After grabbing your coffee, take a short drive to Round Falls, a hidden little gem tucked right in the heart of the city. There’s a small parking area nearby, and from there, it’s about a 5-10-minute walk. Keep an eye out for the sign, and you’ll be greeted by a scenic, refreshing spot that’s perfect for a quick breather or photo op before heading to your next spot.
Location address: 2948 Falls Rd, Baltimore, MD 21211.
Graffiti Alley
For a burst of color and creativity, head to Graffiti Alley, the only legal space in Baltimore where artists can express themselves freely through street art. Located near the Station North Arts District, this vibrant alley is ever-changing, with new murals and pieces popping up regularly.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a cool backdrop for some photos, Graffiti Alley is definitely worth a visit.
The Baltimore Basilica
The Baltimore Basilica, officially known as the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is an architectural gem! It is also the oldest Catholic cathedral in the U.S., completed in 1821.
Designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, the architect behind the U.S. Capitol, it’s an iconic piece of American history and a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. Whether you’re admiring its grand dome from the outside or marveling at its beautiful interior, the Basilica is a must-see during your weekend in Baltimore.
Free tours are available, so take the opportunity to learn more about its rich history!
Edgar Allan Poe’s Grave
Looking for a unique thing to do in Baltimore? Pay a quick visit to Edgar Allan Poe’s grave. The legendary poet and writer spent his final days in Baltimore, and his resting place has become a popular pilgrimage for fans of his dark and mysterious works.
Located in Westminster Hall and Burying Ground, you’ll find Poe’s grave marked by a large monument that was erected in 1875.
Enjoy some Maryland crab cakes
When in Baltimore, indulging in crab cakes is an absolute must! These crab cakes did not disappoint—so meaty and full of flavor. Baltimore has so many fantastic spots to try them, so you can’t go wrong.
We grabbed ours from Penny Black while exploring the charming streets of Fells Point (such a cute, historic area!). Another super popular spot for crab cakes is Faidley’s Seafood at Lexington Market—it’s an iconic local favorite.
We also ate at Phillips Seafood, a well-known seafood spot, and realized halfway through the meal that their crab cakes are the same brand we always rave about from Costco! Everything at Phillips was so good, but after all those crab cakes, we had to try something different. Bottom line? Baltimore knows how to do crab cakes right!
Check out a local brewery
Add Ministry of Brewing to your list of spots to visit for a unique experience! This brewery, housed in a newly restored St. Michael’s Church, is one of the most remarkable breweries I’ve ever seen.
With soaring 53-foot ceilings and jaw-dropping views, the atmosphere alone is enough to make it worth your while. The beer selection is just as impressive, making it a great place to relax and enjoy some local brews in an unforgettable setting.
Go to the Bmore Flea Market
If you’re a fan of unique vintage finds and supporting local vendors, the Bmore Flea Market should be on your list of things to do in Baltimore! This cute local flea market is packed with hidden gems—from retro clothing to handmade goods.
I was actually surprised at how reasonable the prices were compared to Tampa! The market runs every Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM, but make sure to check their Instagram for any location changes or updates. It’s a great way to experience Baltimore’s local vibe while scoring some one-of-a-kind pieces.
Explore Inner Harbor
No weekend in Baltimore is complete without exploring Inner Harbor. This bustling waterfront area is the heart of the city and offers a ton of family-friendly activities. You can take fun boat rides like the whimsical dragon or pirate boats, or if you prefer to stay on land, stroll around and enjoy the views.
One of the highlights here is the National Aquarium, where you can check out marine life from all over the world. There’s also the Maryland Science Center, which is perfect if you’re traveling with kids (or if you’re just a big kid at heart!), and Top of the World Observation Level for some awesome city views.
You’ll also find restaurants, shops, and even street performers, making it a lively spot to take in the energy of Baltimore.
Federal Hill Park
For some of the best views of the city, head over to Federal Hill Park. This historic hilltop offers sweeping views of Inner Harbor and the Baltimore skyline, making it a perfect spot for a morning walk, a peaceful picnic, or catching the sunset.
The park itself is rich in history, dating back to the War of 1812 when it was used as a lookout. Today, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the views while taking in a bit of Baltimore’s past.
Patterson Park
Patterson Park is known for its peaceful atmosphere and the charming Patterson Park Pagoda. This cute and quirky pagoda is a standout feature and offers great photo ops, plus the park itself is perfect for a stroll.
Bmore Licks
After exploring Federal Hill or Patterson Park, treat yourself to some of the best ice cream in Baltimore at Bmore Licks. Their menu features at least 30 homemade flavors daily, and trust me, they are delicious! I went with the seasonal pumpkin cheesecake flavor, and Remi was obsessed with the churro—both were phenomenal. It’s the perfect stop after your park visits!
Where to stay in Baltimore
I stayed in the downtown area and, while our hotel was enjoyable, I think there are better locations for visitors. I’d recommend staying in Inner Harbor or Fells Point. Both areas offer great access to activities, restaurants, and beautiful waterfront views.
Fells Point:
- Admiral Fell Inn (budget)— a charming boutique hotel that offers a cozy, colonial vibe with modern comforts. It’s a great spot if you want to be close to the water, restaurants, and lively nightlife.
- Sagamore Pendry Baltimore (luxury)— this high-end hotel in Fells Point has an elegant design, waterfront views, and top-notch amenities. It also features a gorgeous outdoor pool and an upscale restaurant, perfect for those looking to splurge. It’s probably one of the most well-known hotels in Baltimore!
Inner Harbor:
- The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore (mid-range)— this hotel offers spacious rooms and upscale amenities. Located right along the harbor, it has an indoor pool, fitness center, and some of the best harbor views in the city!
- Baltimore Marriott Waterfront (luxury-ish)— a sleek, modern hotel with more fantastic views of the Inner Harbor, it has comfortable rooms and easy access to major Baltimore attractions like the aquarium and Harborplace.
Check out all available accommodations and prices for your weekend in Batlimore dates here.
Are you ready for your fun weekend in Baltimore?
There you have it—a weekend in Baltimore filled with history, incredible food, fun activities, and a dash of quirkiness! Whether you’re indulging in Maryland’s famous crab cakes, sipping on coffee with a sprinkle of Old Bay, or strolling through the Inner Harbor, this city is full of experiences. Let me know which activity you’re most looking forward to in the comments!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other US blog posts:
New England fall road trip itinerary
Fun things to do in Wilmington, NC
