Top Rated Attracties in Baltimore

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.

Inner Harbor has come to be a significant place in the city of Baltimore and is considered a must-visit attraction. The small waterfront, which serves as a top destination, rose to prominence during the 1950s when it was revitalized for recreational and leisure activities along with grass-covered parks for its people. Over the next decade, parks and plazas, buildings and hotels, and even corporate conventions and government units were added to the Inner Harbor. Places like Maryland Science Center, Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and Ripley’s Believe it Or Not - Odditorium are major attractions that delight people of all ages. The area still embraces its glorious history and the Baltimore Museum of Industry is an apt example. Admirers of the past can take a step back in time by visiting any or all of the five historic ships that are permanently stationed at the Inner Harbor. The elevated 27th floor of the World Trade Center situated in the Inner Harbor allows a bird-eye view of the city of Baltimore.

Johns Hopkins University owns and operates this 48-room, 1850s Italianate mansion decorated with post-Impressionist paintings and sculptures, rare books, Tiffany glass and chandeliers, Chinese porcelains, Japanese netsuke and 17th-century Belgian tapestries. The impressive home contains Baltimore's only private theater designed by Leon Bakst, who is best known for Ballet Russes sets. Call for information on lectures, sculpture shows and other activities. Guided one-hour tours are offered on the hour. Closed major holidays.

With several designated recreation areas, Patapsco Valley State Park is a verdant expanse for anyone who is looking to spend some time in the great outdoors. The Patapsco River snakes its way across the park, inviting you for a memorable canoe ride or a very rewarding fishing session. Walk amid the tall trees, explore vantage points, hidden brooks, and small swimming holes, admire the local wildlife, and bask in the glory of nature. If you have a bike or horse, fret not, for there are special trails designed for these activities as well. Those planning to stay the night can make use of the campsites ranging from those equipped to serve RVs to simple camps where you can stay in a tent for the night.

The Ma & Pa Heritage Trail follows the historic Maryland and Pennsylvania Railroad. Overall stretching up to 6.25-mile (10.1 kilometers), the charming trail encompasses three link trails, such as Bel Air Trail, Forest Hill Trail, and Fallston Link. All three trails are popular for their rustic setting, ideal for a wholesome outdoor experience. Nature enthusiasts can explore the beauty by running, walking, bicycling, and horseback riding.

Nestled in one of the most picturesque parks in the city, the Maryland Zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals. Although the zoo boasts contemporary exhibits where lions, giraffes, elephants, and several species of monkeys roam freely, remnants of the Victorian era remain. Some mammals are housed in large barred cages built a century ago. The Maryland wilderness exhibit, where visitors explore a cave populated by timber rattlesnakes and walk under swimming river otters, is very popular, as is the farmyard with friendly domestic animals.