Baltimore Travel Review - History - Attractions - Guide - Tips

One of the major ports on the East Coast, Baltimore played a role not only in the economic, but also the political, social, cultural and military history of the United States. A newly revitalized waterfront, museums, art galleries, restaurants and numerous area attractions give the city a reputation as a fun spot for people to visit.

History
Baltimore offers history buffs numerous places to explore with over 100 monuments, including the monument to President Washington and Robert E. Lee Memorial Park. A major port and shipping center since the 1700’s, seafood lovers can enjoy a crab feast on nearly every corner. Baltimore was a thriving metropolitan area by 1861 and was actually the site of the first death during the Civil War in the President Street train riot, which occurred as Federal troops were being brought through the city. President Abraham Lincoln viewed Maryland as a critical ally to the Union in the Civil War because of its proximity to Washington and the fact that the Capitol was literally surrounded by factions somewhat sympathetic to the Confederacy. Fortunately, Maryland politicians agreed to be at least neutral to the Union and allow government activities and troop movements necessary to win the four year long war. Maryland was the site of many battles during the Civil War, including Antietam, a bloody struggle early in the war which was largely a stalemate, but viewed as a sign the North could at least hold its own against capable commanders of the South.

Fort McHenry is the topic of the immortal poem "The Star Spangled Banner" which begins with "O say, can you see.." and became our National Anthem, describing the heroic struggle against the British during the War of 1812. Historic Fells Point has many homes and pubs which date back to Colonial days. Edgar Allen Poe- author of "The Raven", "The Cask of Amontillado", "A Telltale Heart" and many other works of macabre and mystery is perhaps Baltimore's best known writer. Higher education is represented by fine institutions like Johns Hopkins University, well known for its excellent academic programs, including a world class medical school. More History...

Restaurants
Seafood lovers love Baltimore- not only because of the many places to enjoy fresh seafood right off the boat (the "catch of the day")- but because one is constantly reminded of the fresh Maryland Blue Crabs, oysters and many types of fish brought in to the port each day. We recommend that you enjoy some great seafood at Legal Seafood , McCormick and Schmick's , Mother's Federal Hill Grill , Pisces , Phillips Seafood , the M&S Grille , Charleston or any of the other fine dining establishments. Do some shopping along the Inner Harbor and then have cocktails at the top of the Renaissance Hotel with a spectacular view of the waterfront at night. You may simply want to relax at a pub along the water and do some people watching as the sun sets over the bay. More Restaurants...

Clubs and Music
The Explorer's Lounge, James Joyce Irish Pub, the Havana Club and Celebrities Lounge are all fun spots to relax and enjoy a cocktail. The Hard Rock Cafe on the waterfront downtown is a great place for a cold beer and some rowdy times after a ballgame. The ESPN Zone is one of the more active spots near the water front for sports fans. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra offers a higher level of cultural fare for classical music lovers. More Clubs and Music...

Area Attractions
Baseball fans crowd Camden Yards during the late Spring and Summer to see the Orioles play and football fans are almost fanatical about the Baltimore Ravens. The Sports Legends Museum right next to Camden Yards is a great place to re-live moments from the teams who gave Baltimore a reputation as a fun sports town. For many years, Baltimore lagged other East Coast cities like New York and Washington, D.C., but a major renovation of the Inner Harbor area has brought the town back to life. With the National Aquarium , the Science Center , the U.S.S. Constellation, Fort McHenry , the B&O Railroad Museum and other attractions, Baltimore offers a wide variety of things to enjoy. To avoid the sometimes oppressive heat and humidity, we recommend you visit during March- May or September-November for the best weather and less crowded conditions. More Attractions...

To learn more, we highly recommend: "Baltimore", by Alexander D. Mitchell, "Walking in Baltimore", by Frank R. Shivers, Jr. and "Zagat 2006 Washington, D.C./Baltimore Restaurants"- see our BALTIMORE Travel Store link where you can buy these and other products at no additional charge through Amazon.com.