A Couple's Guide to Baltimore, MD

Baltimore might be a big city, but it has plenty of cozy accommodations to set the mood for your couple’s trip. The historic Admiral Fell Inn combines classic charm with modern amenities, with the opportunity to opt for a balcony or jacuzzi. The luxury Inn at Henderson’s Wharf is considered the top romantic hotel in the city, with rooms overlooking the harbor. For something more secluded, Rachael’s Dowry Bed and Breakfast, opened in 2010, reflects the furnishing and architectural style of its 18th-century beginnings, with a library and windows overlooking the gardens.

Baltimore is great for a couple’s night at the movies, with beautiful historic theaters such as The Charles and The Senator, or Bengie’s Drive-In, a true throwback to the ’50s. Plus, in the summer, you’ll find outdoor film festivals in Little Italy, Fells Point and more. If you’re into live theater, check out the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center’s Hippodrome Theatre for touring Broadway productions, Center Stage for innovative professional productions, or the Peabody Institute for full-scale operas put on by the talented conservatory students.

Round out your day with a lovely meal at one of the city’s top romantic restaurants. Baltimore’s Little Italy is packed with restaurants, including La Tavola, that offer fine wine and homemade pasta. Charleston and Wit & Wisdom offer harbor views and chic American cuisine. For art and culture, Tapas Teatro, next door to The Charles, has delicious Spanish tapas and more of a café atmosphere, and Gertrude’s overlooks the Baltimore Museum of Art’s sculpture garden. In addition, Annabel Lee Tavern’s walls are decorated with lines from Edgar Allan Poe’s Annabel Lee, giving the late-night restaurant a literary air.

Once home to Baltimore’s elite, Mount Vernon’s gardens and 19th-century architecture make it a beautiful area for couples to walk around. At its heart is the towering Washington Monument. If you’re up for a 227-step climb, you can go up and take in the view on certain days. Peek inside the area’s historic churches and libraries, and take a walk through the Walters Art Museum. End the day at Magdalena Restaurant, for fine French cuisine, or Sotto Sopra, a contemporary Italian restaurant with weekly jazz performances and a monthly opera night.

Walking along the cobblestone streets of Fells Point’s historic seaport already sounds like a nice afternoon. Add in a food tour with fabulous cocktails, local seafood, and other area cuisine? Even better! The 3.5-hour Fells Point Food Tour weaves stories of Fells Point’s past with samplings of the neighborhood’s best. All food and drinks are included in the ticket price.

As a waterfront city, there are plenty of ways for couples to get out on the water. Head to Team Chessie Paddle Boats and take your pick of a traditional couple’s paddle boat, an electric pirate ship, or the signature dragon paddle boat. Book a sightseeing tour or dinner cruise for fantastic views. Or, if you like history, take a tour of one of the historic ships in the harbor, like the grand USS Constellation.

“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” This Loren Eiseley quote nicely sums up The National Aquarium in Baltimore. One of the top aquariums in the country, the National Aquarium’s award-winning exhibits set a serene mood for a romantic outing. Buy tickets in advance online and plan to go after 3 p.m. for fewer crowds and more leisure. For a great deal, go Fridays after 5 p.m. for their Half-Price Friday special.