Things To Do In Inner Harbor, Baltimore
Baltimore skyline at dawn, including the Transamerica Tower and World Trade Center, reflected in the waters of the Inner Harbor | © Clarence Holmes Photography / Alamy Stock Photo
At first glance, the Inner Harbor in downtown Baltimore might seem to be focused on tourism, but it’s not simply Baltimore’s Times Square. While this area was once deprived of love and investment, it is now a thriving hub of culture, leisure, shopping and entertainment for all. Young professionals in the city have embraced it as the place to come out and party or relax on weekends. Redeveloped in recent years, the public space shows just how much Baltimore is thriving. Here is Culture Trip’s pick of Inner Harbor’s highlights for you to explore.
View from the top of the World Trade Center
The experience of seeing a city from the top of a ’70s skyscraper never gets old. The observation deck is on the 27th floor and provides a 360-degree view of both the city and the harbor. Enjoy a sunset or check out the exhibits which show the development of the city as a port and Baltimore’s importance as a global hub. A memorial to the victims of the September 11 attacks, containing parts of steel from the twin towers, is located on the promenade outside the building.
Reginald F Lewis Museum of African-American History and Culture
History Museum
Not many museums can be described as vibrant, but with rotating exhibitions, films and live musical performances from gospel jazz to steel drums this is a fantastic example of where education can also be fun. Learn not only about the history of soul food but also taste what may be the best
Baltimore has to offer on site. A detailed history of African Americans in the state of Maryland with the rise from slavery to freedom and a proud future beyond is on display.
Accessibility & Audience:
Family FriendlyBaltimore Water Taxi
The Water Taxi is not just a way to navigate your city trip but it also has the added bonus of being an adventurous way to experience Inner Harbor. With a cheap all day pass and 14 ports of call around the harbor, you get more than your value for money. Clean, efficient boats and friendly staff whizz you along with the spray of waves in your face and the wind in your hair.
Baltimore Beach
If you want to get a sweat on and meet new like-minded people there are seven beach volleyball courts on 2,000 tons of sand located right on the harbor. Exercise to a great backdrop with a smile on your face. All levels are welcome to drop in on weekend beach volleyball games. In the summer you have the added joy of the perfect breeze coming off the water.
Power Plant Live!
Music Venue, $$$
A perfect summer evening hang out, Power Plant Live! is animated with young professionals descending in celebratory mood on what is a complex filled with bars, restaurants and clubs. Eat, drink and play is the motto and once within the complex, the choices can go from an EDM night club to mechanical bull riding in a whiskey bar. It’s fun, lively and attended en masse.
National Aquarium
Aquarium
Gaze close up at hundreds of species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles, marine mammals and sharks. The aquarium’s mission is to inspire conservation and actively participate in the preservation of the world’s natural resources and living systems. That message rings true throughout. The humid rainforest recreation and of course the giant shark tank are big favorites. Come eyeball to eyeball with rare and very colorful creatures, that more than likely do not want to eat you.
Accessibility & Audience:
Accessible (Wheelchair), Family FriendlyAtmosphere:
Touristy, InstagrammableThese recommendations were updated on June 29, 2020 to keep your travel plans fresh.
