12 Fun Things to Do in Baltimore, Maryland

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If you’re looking for fun things to do in Baltimore, Maryland, get ready for a city that gives you a little bit of everything: waterfront views, historic neighborhoods, colorful street art, great coffee, local markets, and all the Maryland crab cakes.

Baltimore has that classic “Charm City” personality where one minute you’re walking along the Inner Harbor and the next you’re sipping an Old Bay latte or wandering through a tucked-away art alley.

This guide covers my favorite things to do in Baltimore, Maryland, including where to grab coffee, what to eat, a few quirky stops, and the areas I’d actually recommend staying in if you want to be close to the best Baltimore attractions.

Things to Do in Baltimore, Maryland

1. Grab a Local Cup of Joe

Baltimore seriously impressed me with its coffee scene. If you’re a fellow coffee lover, you’re in luck, because this city has plenty of cozy, creative spots to start your day.

Artifact Coffee is a super cute spot near Hampden and Woodberry that’s perfect before exploring the north side of the city. I tried their pumpkin spice latte, which wasn’t overly sweet, but the coffee flavor was so good that I didn’t even mind. That is growth from me, truly.

My number one pick though? Ceremony Coffee Roasters. They served a terrapin iced latte, a chocolate and caramel iced latte with pistachio syrup, topped with a dash of Old Bay. I was hesitant at first, but it was amazing. The Old Bay is subtle, a little savory, and somehow completely works.

2. Round Falls

Round Falls is a hidden little nature stop tucked right into 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, because it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.

It’s a quick, scenic, refreshing spot that’s perfect for a breather or photo op before heading to your next thing to do in Baltimore.

Location address: 2948 Falls Rd, Baltimore, MD 21211. It’s perfect for a quick breather, a few photos, and a tiny nature reset before heading back into the city.

3. Graffiti Alley

For a burst of color and creativity, head to Graffiti Alley, the only legal space in Baltimore where artists can freely create street art. Located near the Station North Arts District, this vibrant alley is constantly changing, with new murals and tags layered over old ones.

Whether you’re into street art or just want a fun photo backdrop, this is one of the more unique things to do in Baltimore.

4. The Baltimore Basilica

The Baltimore Basilica, officially known as the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is such an architectural gem. It’s recognized as America’s first cathedral and was constructed between 1806 and 1821.

Designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who also worked on the U.S. Capitol, it’s an iconic piece of American history and a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. Whether you’re admiring the grand dome from the outside or stepping in to see the bright, beautiful interior, it’s a worthwhile stop.

Free tours are available, so check the current schedule if you want to learn more about its history while you’re there.

5. Edgar Allan Poe’s Grave

For another unique Baltimore stop, 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, mysterious work.

Located at Westminster Hall and Burying Ground, Poe’s grave is marked by a large monument dedicated in 1875. It’s a quick visit, but it adds such an interesting literary-history layer to your list of things to do in Baltimore.

6. Get Some Maryland Crab Cakes

You can’t make a list of the best things to do in Baltimore without making room for crab cakes. It would feel illegal. Baltimore has so many great spots for them, and the ones we tried were meaty, flavorful, and packed with that classic Maryland seafood goodness.

We grabbed ours from Penny Black while exploring the charming streets of Fells Point, which is such a cute, historic waterfront area. Another super popular spot is Faidley’s Seafood at Lexington Market, an iconic local favorite for crab cakes.

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 really good, but after all those crab cakes, we had to branch out and try something different. Bottom line? Baltimore knows how to do crab cakes right.

7. Check Out a Local Brewery

Add Ministry of Brewing to your list if you love a brewery with a little drama. It’s housed inside the former St. Michael’s Church, and it is easily one of the most memorable brewery spaces I’ve ever been in.

With 32 rotating taps and 53-foot barrel ceilings, the atmosphere alone makes it worth visiting. The beer selection is great too, but honestly, I’d recommend stopping in even if you just want to see the building and take in the view from inside.

8. 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. This cute local market is packed with hidden gems, from retro clothing and accessories to handmade goods.

I was actually surprised at how reasonable the prices were compared to Tampa. As of the latest updates I found, the market runs Saturdays from 10 AM to 3 PM at Broadway Market in Fells Point, but still check their Instagram before you go since local markets can change locations or schedules.

9. Inner Harbor

The Inner Harbor is one of Baltimore’s most recognizable waterfront areas and an easy place to spend a few hours. You can take fun boat rides like the dragon or pirate boats, stroll along the water, pop into nearby attractions, or just enjoy the harbor views.

One of the biggest highlights here is the National Aquarium, where you can see marine life from all over the world. There’s also the Maryland Science Center, which is perfect if you’re traveling with kids or just want something interactive, and Top of the World Observation Level on the 27th floor of the World Trade Center for 360-degree city views.

You’ll also find restaurants, shops, and plenty of people out and about, so it’s a great spot to take in the energy of Baltimore without needing a super rigid plan.

10. Federal Hill Park

For some of the best views of the city, head over to Federal Hill Park. This historic hilltop overlooks the Inner Harbor and gives you a gorgeous skyline view without needing a ticket or reservation.

The park itself is rich in history, dating back to the War of 1812 when the hill served as an important military observation point. Today, it’s perfect for a morning walk, a peaceful picnic, or a sunset stop after exploring the harbor.

11. Patterson Park

Patterson Park is one of those easy, pretty stops that gives you a little breathing room between busier parts of the city. The standout feature is the charming Patterson Park Pagoda, a roughly 60-foot Victorian-style observatory dating back to 1891.

It makes such a cute photo stop, and the park itself is also lovely for a stroll, especially if you want something calm and local-feeling on your Baltimore things-to-do list.

12. 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 is huge, with 30+ homemade hard ice cream flavors plus tons of soft serve and milkshake options.

I went with the seasonal pumpkin cheesecake flavor, and Remi was obsessed with the churro. Both were phenomenal. It’s the perfect “we walked a lot and deserve a little treat” stop.

Where to Stay in Baltimore

I stayed in the downtown area and, while our hotel was enjoyable, I think there are better locations for most visitors. For a first trip focused on the best things to do in Baltimore, I’d look at Inner Harbor or Fells Point. Both give you better access to restaurants, waterfront views, and the attractions you’re most likely to be visiting.

Fells Point

• The William Fell Baltimore (mid-range): a charming boutique hotel with a cozy, historic feel. It’s a great pick if you want to be close to the water, restaurants, and nightlife without going full splurge.
• Sagamore Pendry Baltimore (luxury): probably one of the most well-known hotels in Baltimore, with elegant design, waterfront views, an outdoor pool, and an upscale feel. This is the splurge stay.

Inner Harbor

• The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore (mid-range): spacious rooms, upscale amenities, an indoor pool, and a great location right along the harbor.
• Baltimore Marriott Waterfront (luxury-ish): a sleek, modern hotel with fantastic Inner Harbor views, comfortable rooms, and easy access to major Baltimore attractions like the aquarium.

Are you ready to explore Baltimore, Maryland?

I hope this list of fun things to do in Baltimore, Maryland gets you excited for your trip! Whether you’re eating crab cakes in Fells Point, sipping a latte with a sprinkle of Old Bay, walking through Graffiti Alley, or taking in the skyline from Federal Hill, these Baltimore activities make the city so fun to explore.

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other US blog posts:

Things to Do in NYC

New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Fun Things to Do in Wilmington, NC