Situated on the Patapsco River, which flows directly into the Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore is a diverse city with distinct neighborhoods and unique downtown activities. Whether you’re planning a trip here to explore the history or see one of the top attractions, it helps to know what to except so you can put together the ideal trip. Learn more about the best time to visit Baltimore, where to stay, what to do, and more.
Best Times to Go
Baltimore experiences four distinct seasons, so what you want to see will play a role in when you visit. March through May offers mild temperatures that are ideal if you plan to do a lot of walking when you explore the city. Although June through August brings hot, humid weather and higher hotel prices, it’s also one of the best times to visit the city. You can find numerous festivals, performances, and events throughout Baltimore during these months.
If you’re looking for a good hotel deal, consider visiting in September through November. Just be sure to pack a sweater, since the weather starts to get chilly in the fall. While you won’t have to deal with crowds and you’ll find the lowest hotel prices if you visit from December to February, you’ll also have to deal with temperatures that can dip below freezing.
What to Eat
Baltimore is famous for its crab, so no trip to the city is complete without dining on some of these tasty crustaceans. One of the most popular spots in Baltimore to get steamed crabs is Bo Brooks Restaurant. Situated right on the waterfront in the neighborhood of Canton, this restaurant has served steamed crabs covered in their signature seasoning since 1964.
What to See
Whether you love history, shopping, or exciting attractions, you’ll find plenty to do in Baltimore. Take a trip to Fort McHenry National Monument and learn about the battle that inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Some of the top attractions in the city can be found at the Inner Harbor. Here you’ll find the National Aquarium, American Visionary Art Museum, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum, and more. You may also want to check out the trendy shopping and dining at Harbor East.
Where to Stay
From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, Baltimore offers plenty of perfect hotels for your trip. If you want to stay right in the heart of all the action, consider a hotel at the Inner Harbor. This is also where you can find some of the city’s top luxury hotels that offer extra amenities like an on-site spa, restaurant, outdoor pool, and room service. If you’re looking to save a little money on your hotel, look for one just outside of the city. These hotels offer an affordable option while still being just a few miles away from the good sightseeing spots.
Use the helpful tips in this guide to plan your trip to Baltimore so you can make sure you experience the best that the Charm City has to offer.