Things To Do In Inner Harbor, Baltimore

Baltimore might look like any old American city, but its blend of cultures show you otherwise
Baltimore might look like any old American city, but it's blend of cultures show you otherwise | Chris Boswell / Alamy Stock Photo
Frank Lopez

Writer

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.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

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

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.

Baltimore 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!

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

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.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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