Looking for fun things to do in Baltimore that aren’t the typical top spots you read about?
As a Baltimore local myself, I’ve compiled this list of unique things to do in Baltimore that don’t actually suck!
Some of these activities you can go off and do on your own, whereas some of them you can enjoy with your whole family.
We’re going to cover some of the best places in downtown Baltimore for anything from a great coffee spot to the top Baltimore attractions.
If you’re looking for ideas on what to do in Baltimore, this list is sure you to inspire you!
Let’s get started…
Things to Do in Baltimore if You Want to Travel Like a Local
Anyone can find Baltimore’s historic sites with a quick search on TripAdvisor, but if you’re looking for things to do in Baltimore that the locals do, then this list below is for you.
Have Your Coffee at the Top of Federal Hill Park
The view from the top of Federal Hill Park is incredible, and what better way to experience Baltimore than to see it looking down from above.
Grab yourself a coffee and take a morning stroll up to the top.
Bike Around the Harbor From Federal Hill to Canton
See the entire Inner Harbor in under an hour by bicycle!
Rent bikes and follow the pathway from Federal Hill to Canton – it’s about a 4 mile trip.
Experience the incredible water views, cool breezes, and local businesses to shop along the way.
Not comfortable with biking? You can also walk or run the path as well.
Get a Buzz at the Sagamore Spirit Distillery
Sagamore Spirit Distillery was founded by Kevin Plank, who had previously founded, Baltimore based, Under Armour.
When you visit this local distillery, you get a 30 minute walking tour as well as a 30 minute guided whiskey tasting.
You’ll surely leave with a buzz and a new found appreciation for this spirit!
Walk the loop at Fort McHenry National Monument
If you love to exercise, you’re going to absolutely love this national historic landmark.
Fort McHenry is surrounded by water so it’s a wonderful walking loop to explore.
Fun Fact: The valiant defense of the fort during the Battle of Baltimore on September 13-14, 1814 inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the U.S. national anthem. The fort’s history holds many other stories too, from the Civil War to WWII.
Stop at One of Baltimore’s Weekend Farmer’s Markets
Peruse one of Baltimore’s weekend farmers markets for anything from local foods to works of art.
It’s a great spot to spend a weekend morning. Choose from 3 locations in Fell’s Point, under the I-83 bridge, or at the Baltimore Museum of Industry.
Shop Local in Harbor East or Fells Point
If you’re looking for some more upscale shopping, then you will love the luxury shops in the Harbor East and Fell’s Point neighborhoods.
Both are just a short walk from each other!
We recommend Brightside, Sassanova, and Su Casa.
What to Do in Baltimore as a Tourist
Experiencing Baltimore like a local is awesome, but if you’ve never been to do Baltimore before you still need to do some of the touristy things.
This next list of what to do in Baltimore will ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Get an Instagram Worthy Selfie at the Peabody Library
Trust me… the Peabody Library is a pretty cool place!
If you love a good photo-op, you must take a selfie here. It has an incredible backdrop worth visiting.
This is a great rainy day activity since it’s completely indoors.
Go To a Ravens Game at M&T Bank Stadium
No matter what team you’re a fan of, the Ravens stadium is a pretty iconic place to see.
It’s in downtown Baltimore so it’s pretty cool that it’s walking distance from a lot of fun Charm City bars like Don’t Know Tavern, Magerk’s Pub and Pickles.
Go an a Sunset Cruise Through the Baltimore Inner Harbor
Get views of a sunset over Baltimore’s Inner Harbor on an evening sunset cruise! This one aboard the Summer Wind is top-rated.
Listen to relaxing music and feel free to bring along your favorite bottle of wine to enjoy.
Make a Dinner Reservation to Experience Baltimore’s Top Notch Food Scene
Baltimore has a top notch food scene which is highly under-rated. If you’re a foodie, then make sure to secure dinner reservations in the heart of Baltimore as a great way to enjoy the city.
Some local favorites are Thames Street Oyster House, the Charleston, and One-Eyed Mike’s.
We’ve actually published a full list of the best seafood restaurants in Maryland… and of course, these Baltimore favorites are on it!
Get Tickets for a Concert at Pier 6 Pavilion
Love to travel for special events?
Concerts at Pier Six Pavilion on the Baltimore Harbor are always a good time!
Locals Tip: You can enjoy the live music by setting up your own picnic on one of the neighboring piers.
Hop Between Each of Baltimore’s Neighborhoods via Water Taxi
Easily hop between neighborhoods like Federal Hill, Power Plant, Little Italy, and Canton with the Inner Harbor’s water taxi.
Especially if you are traveling with young kids, you don’t have to worry about car seats!
Things to Do in Baltimore Maryland Specifically For Kids
If you’re traveling as a family, sometimes it’s nice to plan kids-specific activities to enjoy with them.
This next list of things to do in Baltimore Maryland will surely be one of your child’s top things they did on the trip!
Bring Your Kids to the Baltimore National Aquarium
The National Aquarium has some of the top exhibits in the world like the Amazon River Forest, Dolphin Discovery, and the Atlantic Coral Reef.
It’s a great place for children ranging in age from infants to teenagers. It’s right in downtown Baltimore near the visitor center.
There are tons of restaurants nearby as well as all of the historic ships you can walk on and tour too.
Take Your Family to See an Orioles Game at Camden Yards
Your kids will love a day at the Baltimore Orioles ball park during the spring and summer months!
Oriole Park is the first of the “retro” major league ballparks constructed during the 1990s and early 2000s.
It feels like an old, authentic stadium but with the modern comforts we all enjoy.
Tickets are very affordable too!
Let Your Kids Experience Port Discovery
The Port Discovery Children’s Museum is seriously incredible and not one to miss. Your kids could easily spend an entire day in here!
It’s the perfect place to spend the day if it’s winter or just a rainy day.
There are 3 floors of interactive exhibits like Wonders of Water, the SkyClimber, Tiny’s Diner and a Toddler Play Area.
It’s currently ranked among the top five children’s museums in the United States.
Give Your Kids an Educational Experience at the Maryland Science Center
If you need another indoor kids activity that’s filled with both fun AND educational programs, you will love the Maryland Science Center.
Let your children get lost in the Kid’s Room and gaze in wonder at the IMAX theatre!
It’s also walking distance from the American Visionary Art Museum which specializes in some pretty cool specializes in original thematic exhibitions that are great for older children.
Enjoy Your Child’s Wonder at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is considered the third oldest zoo, having opened in 1876.
Of course it has since been updated and is considered a fun place to take your kids often.
They have lots of fun special events such as Brew at the Zoo, Zoo Boo! for Halloween, and Zoo Lights during the holidays.
Final Words on the Best Things to Do in Baltimore
We hope you loved this in-depth list of the best things to do in Baltimore!
Some are touristy and some are less-known hidden gems.
Either way, you and your family are sure to have a memorable trip that’ll be one for the books!