East meets West at The Walters. The museum was established in 1934, with a gift from prominent art collector Henry Walters as its initial collection. On one hand, its collection spans nearly the entire history of Western art. Its spacious galleries are home to Greek and Roman statuary, Baroque carvings, and a large collection of Renaissance paintings. On the other hand, its elegant Centre Street building holds one of the largest collections of traditional Asian art in the United States.
Considered one of the finest examples of Neoclassical architecture, the Baltimore Basilica is the nation's oldest Catholic cathedral. Begun in 1806 and completed in 1821, the cathedral was designed by Benjamin Latrobe, architect of the U.S. Capitol. With its six Corinthian columns fronting a grand portico, the cathedral resembles a Greek temple. Nine stained-glass windows fill the massive interior with light. Visitors in recent years have included Pope John Paul II and the late Mother Theresa.
Opened in 1992, this baseball stadium incorporates the old Baltimore & Ohio RR Warehouse building into its asymmetrical design. The home plate and right field foul pole came from the old Memorial Stadium, the former home of the Orioles. Ninety-minute tours are given on weekday mornings as long as there isn't an afternoon game. If the O's are in town, be sure to grab a ticket, as seeing a game here is a real treat!
'Visionary Art' is a term used to describe art that is created by people who use ordinary media to express their own intensely personal ideas about life. This museum has assembled a wonderful collection of this very Visionary art. Since Visionary artists generally lack formal training, and work outside of established art traditions, their works are as bold, innovative and inspirational as the visions that spawned them. Children under six years of age are free.
The sight of the American flag flying over Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the 'Star Spangled Banner'. The fort is best known for the part it played during the War of 1812, successfully holding off an attack by the British Navy. When Scott Key saw the flag still flying over the fort after surviving the attack, he wrote the poem that became the national anthem. Today, the fort is a National Historic Park. The restored barracks hold exhibits of military and historical artifacts and a well-kept trail runs along the water's edge, affording spectacular views of ships entering and leaving the busy harbor.
This aquarium is perhaps the greatest attraction in Baltimore's celebrated Inner Harbor. The exceptional exhibits start small with samples of marine life from local waters, however, visitors soon find themselves eye-to-eye with amphibians, reptiles, sharks, rays, and other wonderful sea creatures. Here, the simulated rainforest ecosystem and the regularly scheduled dolphin tours are not just popular but even awe-inspiring. A multiple awards winner for various categories like best aquarium and attraction, this aquarium is a big favorite of people of all sizes, especially children.
This gallery documents the history of architecture. If it's been blueprinted, you'll probably find it photographed, sketched or painted here. On the first floor, the nonprofit American Institute of Architects (AIA) Gallery displays the work of local artists. The prices are not cheap, but they're fair. Downstairs, exhibits on such topics as Baltimore's industrial buildings and the use of natural light in architecture are displayed. These works are usually not offered for sale.
East meets West at The Walters. The museum was established in 1934, with a gift from prominent art collector Henry Walters as its initial collection. On one hand, its collection spans nearly the entire history of Western art. Its spacious galleries are home to Greek and Roman statuary, Baroque carvings, and a large collection of Renaissance paintings. On the other hand, its elegant Centre Street building holds one of the largest collections of traditional Asian art in the United States.
Considered one of the finest examples of Neoclassical architecture, the Baltimore Basilica is the nation's oldest Catholic cathedral. Begun in 1806 and completed in 1821, the cathedral was designed by Benjamin Latrobe, architect of the U.S. Capitol. With its six Corinthian columns fronting a grand portico, the cathedral resembles a Greek temple. Nine stained-glass windows fill the massive interior with light. Visitors in recent years have included Pope John Paul II and the late Mother Theresa.
As the capital of Maryland, Annapolis is a busy city and its city dock is always buzzing with activity. This dock serves as a prominent port and has a long-standing history dating back to almost 350 years. Known for its sailing activities and sea-based culture, the city dock shows off the best of Annapolis. Awarded for its eco-friendliness, it's easy to see that the people of Annapolis love their heritage and aim to preserve it always. The city dock is one of the most noted tourist spots, where visitors like to stroll by the waterfront, enjoy a meal, or watch the boats pass by.
Serving as a leader of Baltimore's thriving theater community for over 50 years, Center stage is famous for its innovative presentation of contemporary and classic plays. This non-profit and professional theater company is located in the Mount Vernon neighborhood of the city, known for its cultural diversity. Past shows have include classics like Shakespeare's Twelfth Night and contemporary performances like Wild With Happy. Visit the website to know more about their upcoming season and shows.
The sight of the American flag flying over Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the 'Star Spangled Banner'. The fort is best known for the part it played during the War of 1812, successfully holding off an attack by the British Navy. When Scott Key saw the flag still flying over the fort after surviving the attack, he wrote the poem that became the national anthem. Today, the fort is a National Historic Park. The restored barracks hold exhibits of military and historical artifacts and a well-kept trail runs along the water's edge, affording spectacular views of ships entering and leaving the busy harbor.