Baltimore for Beginners

Though it may be tough to leave the dragon boats behind, any explorer discovers that this port city is also a landlubber’s dream. This is the perfect time of year to join us as we find some favorite spots along Baltimore’s walkable streets.

Inner Harbor

From this hub, many other Baltimore neighborhoods fan out, easily accessible. But before branching out, don’t miss all the lively action centered in this bustling spot. Your first stop should be at the Baltimore Visitor Center, chock-full of brochures, maps, and kind volunteers who will point you in the right direction. Buy a Harbor Pass there, good for one-time base admission to the Maryland Science Center, National Aquarium in Baltimore, Top of the World Observation Level, and your choice of either the Port Discovery Children’s Museum or the American Visionary Art Museum. The National Aquarium, especially, with its popular Australian exhibit, lures visitors to see the lorikeets and the daily dolphin shows. Guests who would rather skip the crowds should try to be there early.

For an unforgettable sight, ride up to the Top of the World, which perches on the 27th floor of the World Trade Center, for a panoramic view of the city. At 429 feet, you’re in one of the tallest pentagonal buildings in the world.

While you’re in the Inner Harbor, take advantage of a Ride the Ducks - Baltimore tour. Gather right behind the Baltimore Visitor Center (purchase tickets online or by phone to ensure the best time for your schedule; http://www.baltimoreducks.com/ or 877-887-8225) for a great amphibious exploration in a vehicle that transforms from land vehicle to watercraft. Your driver tells how Cecil Calvert founded Baltimore City, and he’ll escort you past Edgar Allan Poe’s grave. Eventually you plunge into the water,
floating by Fell’s Point, the oldest part of the city.

After your land and sea overview, check out Harborplace & The Gallery, with its many shopping and dining options. A favorite, Phillips Seafood pleases with its popular crab cakes. Enjoy an ice-cream cone from Lee’s, and get ready to walk a bit. Mount Vernon is calling.

Mount Vernon

Put on your most comfortable walking shoes, grab a bottle of water, and explore arts- and museum-filled North Charles Street. If you’d rather save your shoe leather, take a cab. The ultimate goal is to get to the Washington Monument and Museum at Mount Vernon Place. It was the first such monolithic tribute to the father of our country. Climb the 228 steps - the view is worth the effort.

After this trek, be sure to stop in at Sotto Sopra. The house-made pasta can’t be beat nor can the atmosphere. Paintings and murals on the mirrored walls add to the European flavor.

Don’t miss the Walters Art Museum. You’ll see mummies, armor, 19th-century masterpieces, and more. The museum offers free tours on Sundays.

Every Saturday through October, the Baltimore Architecture Foundation leads a guided walking tour of Mount Vernon Place. The tour group meets at the Peabody Court Hotel lobby at 10am (Call 410-385-0424 for information or reservations). This historic neighborhood and park, referred to as the heart and soul of Baltimore, is where the cream of society built fine townhomes.

Stop in at Clayton Fine Books & Cyber Café to pick up an out-of-print volume along with an espresso and scone. Beadazzled tempts fans of all things sparkly to explore their shop at 501 North Charles. Your trip back is downhill all the way. Then it’s time for a water taxi ride over to Fell’s Point, where Baltimore began.