Best Places To Rest Your Head In Baltimore

If you're looking for a place to sleep for a day in Baltimore, there are a variety of options to choose from. Baltimore has a range of accommodations, from luxurious high-rise hotels to budget-friendly alternatives. Here are some suggestions:

- Luxury Hotels: Baltimore has several high-end hotels, including the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, which offers stunning views of the harbour and luxurious amenities such as a spa and infinity pool. The Inn at the Black Olive is another boutique hotel option with eco-friendly features, a rooftop garden, and organic bedding.

- Cozy Bed and Breakfasts: For a more intimate stay, consider a bed and breakfast like the Scarborough Fair Bed & Breakfast in the Federal Hill neighbourhood. This B&B offers romantic rooms with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs, and they can arrange special touches like chocolate-dipped strawberries.

- Airport Hotels: If you're just passing through or have an early flight, there are several hotels near Baltimore Airport (BWI) that provide free shuttle services. These include the Hilton Baltimore BWI Airport, Comfort Inn & Suites BWI Airport, and Wingate by Wyndham Baltimore BWI Airport, among others.

- Budget-Friendly Options: Baltimore also has some budget-friendly hotels, such as the Motel 6 Baltimore City MD in the Station North neighbourhood and the Baltimore Plaza Inner Harbor, which is conveniently located for exploring the city.

Baltimore Airport (BWI)

Sleeping spots

There are plenty of seats available at BWI, but most have armrests, and the benches are mostly wooden or metal. Concourse C has some armrest-free seating, while Concourses D and E have padded benches, narrow couches, and quieter corners for privacy. The observation deck is also a good spot to sleep as it's darker than other areas, but you'll need a sleeping bag or mat to add a layer of softness to the benches.

Sleeping pods

If you want more privacy, you can rent a sleeping pod at Minute Suites in Concourse C, near Gate C3. Each suite has a daybed that sleeps two, fresh pillows and blankets, a smart TV, free Wi-Fi, and an Amazon Alexa. Rates are $55 per hour, with discounted rates for military/first responders.

Hotels

There are no hotels inside the airport, but there are several nearby that provide free airport shuttles. These include:

• Aloft BWI Baltimore Washington International Airport
• BWI Airport Marriott
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, BWI Airport
• Courtyard by Marriott Baltimore BWI Airport
• Hilton Baltimore BWI Airport
• Holiday Inn Baltimore BWI Airport, an IHG Hotel
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baltimore BWI Airport
• Red Roof PLUS+ Baltimore – Washington DC/BWI Airport
• Wingate by Wyndham Baltimore BWI Airport

Tips

• The airport may be cold at night, so bring an extra layer.
• It can also be noisy, so bring earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones.
• Once the checkpoints close, you'll be stuck in the public/landside area until morning, so plan ahead.
• Keep your valuables safe. Hide them, padlock your bag to something, or sleep with your bag up against a wall.
• Stay near other travellers or close to security if you're alone.
• Be prepared to be woken up early by security as they wake travellers for morning flights.

Baltimore's Date Night Destinations

Baltimore is a city bursting with romantic potential, offering countless opportunities for couples to plan the perfect date night. From intimate dining experiences and unique adventures to relaxing outdoor escapes, Baltimore is teeming with diverse and romantic date ideas to help you connect with your significant other. Here are some suggestions for date night destinations in Baltimore:

Hotels

Baltimore boasts a range of luxurious hotels for a romantic getaway, including:

• Four Seasons: This world-renowned hotel in Harbor East offers a five-star spa, a rooftop pool, and a Harley Pasternak-designed fitness facility. For the ultimate treat, book the Night Spa Experience, which grants you private after-hours access to the spa facilities.
• Hotel Revival: Baltimore’s only boutique art hotel, inspired by the Mount Vernon community. Each room features a curated assortment of locally made antiques, ceramics, textiles, and prints, as well as impressive views of the city.
• The Ivy: This romantic modern hotel is a converted 1880s mansion with 17 spacious rooms and suites. It features a sun-filled courtyard, a library, and a piano and pool on the main floor.
• Sagamore Pendry: Located a short distance from the Inner Harbor, this hotel offers views of the Baltimore harbor, a waterfront pool deck, a garden courtyard, and 128 warm and inviting rooms.

Restaurants

Baltimore is known for its thriving food scene, with a variety of intimate dining experiences to choose from:

• The Bygone: Located on the top floor of the Four Seasons hotel, this restaurant offers plush velvet seats, cozy booths, and stunning views of the Inner Harbor.
• Charleston: Head Chef Cindy Wolf, a frequent James Beard Award nominee, combines classic French techniques with the comforting cooking of South Carolina.
• Cosima: Hidden along the Jones Falls, this contemporary restaurant serves Southern Italian and Sicilian cuisine in a warm and rustic setting.
• Sotto Sopra: This contemporary Italian restaurant nestled on Charles Street offers a luxe yet inviting atmosphere and a range of fresh, house-made pastas.
• The Prime Rib: Inspired by 1940s glamour, this restaurant features rich leather seating, tuxedoed waitstaff, nightly live musicians, and a complimentary valet.
• Petit Louis Bistro: This charming bistro in Roland Park offers fresh takes on classic French dishes and was voted Baltimore's best restaurant in 2020.
• Homeslyce Pizza: This neighborhood pizzeria offers a cozy ambiance, mouthwatering homemade fare, and a carefully curated selection of local craft beers and cocktails.
• Azumi: This upscale Japanese restaurant on the harbor offers panoramic water views, sushi, sashimi, and omakase tasting menus.
• Millie's: A romantic, dimly lit restaurant perfect for a candlelit dinner.
• Chez Hugo: Indulge in a multicourse menu and linger over a bottle of wine at this intimate bistro.
• Cazbar: The first Turkish restaurant in Maryland, offering authentic dishes like kebabs, stews, and pastries, along with live belly dancing performances.
• Grano Pasta Bar: A casual Italian dining experience with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a market, Grano Mercato, for take-home treats.
• Woodberry Kitchen: A farm-to-table restaurant showcasing the best of Baltimore's local produce and creative culinary offerings.

Cocktail Lounges

For a cozy nightcap, check out one of Baltimore's many cocktail lounges:

• The Bluebird Cocktail Room: A stylish and inviting second-story cocktail bar with a literary theme, offering seasonal drinks inspired by literature.
• W.C. Harlan: A speakeasy-inspired spot tucked into a Remington rowhouse, offering new twists on classic cocktails in a cozy, candlelit setting.
• Teavolve Cafe and Lounge: A cozy cafe with live music on Saturday nights and open mic nights on Mondays, featuring 30 varieties of tea, boba, and delicious eats.
• The Elk Room: A Harbor East speakeasy ranked as one of Esquire's best bars in the country in 2018, offering original cocktails in a chic, intimate space inspired by the 1920s.

Alternative Date Activities

If you're looking for something a little different, Baltimore has plenty of unique date activities to choose from:

• Top Golf: An unconventional driving range with climate-controlled hitting bays, food and drink options, music, and lounge games.
• Baltimore Chef Shop: Take a cooking class together and prepare a romantic meal for each other.
• Maryland Science Center: Stargaze at the Davis Planetarium and explore the guided tours of our solar system.
• Chesapeake Shakespeare Company: Spend an evening with Shakespeare, taking in top-notch productions in an intimate playhouse setting.
• City Cruise: Explore Baltimore by boat with a dinner or brunch tour, or charter a private yacht.
• Local Color Flowers: Design your own bouquet at this Waverly florist, which sources its stems from within a 50-mile radius.
• Amazing Glaze: Paint your own pottery at this Mount Washington studio, the first of its kind in Maryland.

Boutique Hotels

Baltimore has a range of boutique hotels, from historic buildings to modern accommodations. Here are some options for where to spend your day in the city:

Hotel Revival

Hotel Revival is Baltimore's only boutique art hotel. Each room is expertly curated with locally made antiques, ceramics, textiles, and prints, as well as eye-catching wallpapers and impressive views of the city. The hotel is inspired by the vibrant Mount Vernon community it inhabits. Don't forget to check out the on-site restaurant, Topside, which offers some of the best views of the Baltimore's historic Washington Monument.

The Ivy Hotel

The Ivy Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel located in a historic Mount Vernon mansion. It features 17 beautifully furnished guest rooms and suites, charming public spaces, and a small luxury spa. The property offers a range of amenities, including a garden, a library, a piano, and a billiards table. The surrounding Mount Vernon neighbourhood is filled with charming streets, a vibrant waterfront, boutiques, galleries, theatres, and coffee shops.

Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

Sagamore Pendry Baltimore is a boutique hotel located in the cobblestoned neighbourhood of Fells Point. The hotel sits directly on the Harbor and is surrounded by cool shops, wine bars, and restaurants. It offers unparalleled views of the Baltimore harbour, a waterfront pool deck, a garden courtyard, and 128 rich, warm rooms.

Inn at Henderson's Wharf

The Inn at Henderson's Wharf is a beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Fells Point. It offers a great value and a quiet location just a few blocks from the wild side of Fells Street.

Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown

Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown is a former YMCA turned boutique hotel, nestled between the public library and the Walters Gallery. It is located in a lovely section of town with parks, churches, beautiful homes, and the Peabody Conservatory. The hotel features clean and modern decor while preserving the historical attributes of the building.

Ulysses

Ulysses is a boutique hotel in Mount Vernon, Baltimore, with 116 elegantly designed guest rooms and suites. It features three unique event spaces and is located near the city's cultural attractions. The hotel also has three bars: The Coral Wig, a cocktail bar inspired by the clubs of 1980s-era Manila; Ash—Bar, a daily cafe, market, and bar inspired by old-world cafes; and Bloom’s, a plush cocktail lounge.

Baltimore's Best Food

Baltimore's food scene is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of longstanding favourites and exciting newcomers. Here is a guide to some of the city's top culinary destinations:

Ethel's Creole Kitchen:

New Orleans meets Baltimore at Ethel's Creole Kitchen, where chefs Ed Bloom and Nick Creamer put a local spin on New Orleans classics. Under the tutelage of the late Louisiana chef Paul Prudhomme, Bloom picked up a love for Creole and Cajun cuisine. The menu features jambalaya, gumbo, and fried Chesapeake oysters served with remoulade. The restaurant has a vibrant, two-story space in the heart of the city.

Chiyo Sushi:

Chiyo Sushi is a go-to spot for sushi lovers in Baltimore. Located in Mt. Washington, it offers standard nigiri and sashimi, as well as specialty rolls like the Orioles roll. The restaurant has recently expanded, adding an upstairs dining area to its intimate dining room and bustling bar.

Petit Louis Bistro:

Petit Louis Bistro is a charming French bistro in the pedestrian-friendly Roland Park neighbourhood. For over two decades, it has been serving classic French dishes like escargot, duck confit, and trout amandine. The chilled glasses of Sauternes and French onion soup will transport you to Europe. The restaurant also offers plenty of outdoor seating.

Cafe Campli:

Cafe Campli is a love letter to the Abruzzo region of Italy. Husband-and-wife duo Paul and Samantha Mincarelli fell in love with the sparkling Adriatic coastline and lush Apennine mountain views. Their restaurant in Lauraville showcases the region's signature ingredients, such as white anchovy, oxtail ragu, and spaghetti alla chitarra. The bar programme features minerally white wines from Pecorino and herbaceous Italian amari.

The Local Fry:

The Local Fry is a compact restaurant located in The Rotunda, redesigned to resemble hanging French fries. It offers a variety of loaded fries, including Korean barbecue and kimchi, as well as banh mi, po'boys, rice bowls, and chicken wings. The restaurant has expanded to a stall in Camden Yards and plans to open more franchised locations.

Dylan's Oyster Cellar:

Dylan Salmon, who started his business as a pop-up in Mt. Vernon, now has a brick-and-mortar corner restaurant in Hampden. Dylan's Oyster Cellar showcases the importance of oysters in Baltimore's culinary backbone. The raw bar features a rotating variety of raw oysters, and the menu includes whole fish dishes and a green chile cheeseburger.

The Urban Oyster:

The Urban Oyster is a permanent fixture in Baltimore, planted in the chef-owner Jasmine Norton's childhood neighbourhood. The aquamarine walls are dotted with pop art, and the menu features playful dishes like a lobster corndog and fried oyster deviled eggs, alongside more dressed-up options like grilled branzino and vegan garden risotto.

La Cuchara:

La Cuchara brings vibrance to Baltimore's historic Meadow Mill, formerly home to the London Fog raincoat company. Chef Ben Lefenfeld prepares Basque dishes like pan con tomate, strip steak with black garlic butter, and chilled seafood. The menu changes daily, reflecting the season's freshest ingredients.

Alma Cocina Latina:

Alma Cocina Latina is a Venezuelan oasis in Station North, with a transportive dining room filled with plants and playful murals. Rising Venezuelan chef David Zamudio meticulously plates Latin gyoza, Caribbean scallops, stuffed arepas, and a stunning burrata salad. The menu is mostly gluten-free, with many vegan and vegetarian options.

The Helmand:

The Helmand is a venerable Afghani restaurant that has delighted Mount Vernon residents for over 30 years. Their signature dish, kaddo borwani, is pan-fried and baked baby pumpkin dolloped with yogurt. The menu offers a range of exotic yet approachable dishes, including zardalu challow (lamb with sun-dried apricots and prunes) and mourgh challow (chicken sautéed in yellow split peas and tomatoes).

Tio Pepe:

Tio Pepe is a subterranean, white-tablecloth Spanish and Mediterranean restaurant that has been a Baltimore staple since the late 1960s. Generations of Baltimoreans have celebrated special occasions here, often including an order of their famous puffed potatoes. The menu is stuck in 1968, but that makes it cool again. Start with the hollandaise artichokes and Serrano ham with melon, and don't miss the masterpiece suckling pig.

Faidley's Seafood:

Faidley's Seafood is an iconic seafood stall in the iconic Lexington Market, serving fist-sized crab cakes handmade by Nancy Faidley Divine. They also offer lake trout, soft-shell crabs, clams, and oysters. You can even get their crab cakes shipped if you're craving a taste of Baltimore from afar.

Clavel:

Clavel is a Mexican cafe and bar in Fell's Point, known for its lively atmosphere and hearty dishes. The menu features queso birria tacos, tortas, breakfast burritos, and huevos rancheros. The pink-hued dining room and heartfelt hospitality make every meal feel like a party.

Little Donna's:

Little Donna's is a stylish and whimsical restaurant in Upper Fells Point, created by industry veteran Robbie Tutleswki and his wife Kaleigh Schwalbe. The menu features plush sausage-filled pierogies, a crisp Serbian-influenced crab pancake, and thin-crust tavern pizzas. The local love shines through on the drink menu, including a Daddy's Beer on Ice: a Union Zadie's lager with Clamato, hot sauce, and lime.

Ekiben:

Beloved by co-owners Steve Chu and Ephrem Abebe, Ekiben has locations in Fells Point, Locust Point, and Hampden. They source flavours from Ethiopia, Taiwan, Thailand, and India, offering dishes like tempura broccoli, "tofu brah" with spicy peanut sauce, and Taiwanese curry chicken. The busy restaurant has a strong Instagram presence, keeping followers updated on the latest memes, menus, and food truck whereabouts.

Costiera:

Costiera is a Mediterranean-inspired spot with a focus on comforting pastas and seafood dishes sourced from the mid-Atlantic. Start with the experimental crudos, then move on to the squash and stracciatella-studded pesto rigatoni or the whole wheat tagliatelle with beef and pork ragu. Large plates like the grilled halibut with saffron cream or the harissa-rubbed half chicken are sure to satisfy.

Peter's Inn:

Peter's Inn is a quaint and quirky restaurant in Fells Point, known for its martini service and incredible garlic bread. Their menu features a one-bite scallop dish, signature steak entrees, and a famed chocolate pot du creme. The restaurant has had several lives, previously being a rowdy biker bar before Bud and Karin Tiffany transformed it into a dining destination.

NiHao:

NiHao is a James Beard-nominated Chinese restaurant in Canton, owned and operated by Lydia Chang and pastry pro Pichet Ong. The menu features eggplant and garlic sauce, mapo tofu, green peppercorn flounder, dim sum, and their signature Peking duck. They also offer a range of baijiu cocktails, made with the national spirit of China.

Magdalena, A Maryland Bistro:

Magdalena is an epitome of elegance inside The Ivy Hotel. The posh dining rooms and Eden-like patio showcase a bistro-style menu that draws from local fishermen and farmers. Dishes like crispy sea bass with chanterelles and golden Amish chicken with pickled okra showcase the seasons. The whiskey selection and Wine Spectator-awarded bottle list make for ideal accompaniments.

Le Comptoir du Vin:

Le Comptoir du Vin is a French-ish bistro and wine bar in Station North, created by Rosemary Liss and Will Mester. The intimate dining room and basement wine cellar evoke a sense of old-world charm. The menu features rustic countryside dishes like cassoulet, lentil stew, and rolled pig's head. Their famous mussel toast with saffron aioli is a must-try.

Ammoora:

Ammoora is Baltimore's first fine-dining Syrian restaurant, located inside the Ritz-Carlton Residences. Executive chef Dima Al-Chaar's menu is an ode to her native country, offering dishes like chargrilled lamb kofta and tangy cucumber yogurt dip. The space exudes serious swagger, with mother-of-pearl-inlaid furniture and glistening Arabic coffee carts.

Cinghiale:

Cinghiale is a beautiful Harbor East enoteca and osteria, owned by Tony Foreman and Cindy Wolf. The menu features a world-class selection of imported cheeses and meats, including foie gras and bluefin tuna crudo. Be sure to try the mushroom lasagna and the grilled swordfish in hazelnut-anchovy brown butter. The impressive multipage wine list will satisfy any oenophile.

CookHouse:

CookHouse is an intimate and charming bistro in Bolton Hill, owned by chef-owner George Dailey. The inventive cocktails and spectacular dishes explain the restaurant's popularity. Bar director Gabriel Valladares crafts artful drinks, while Dailey prepares intricate and inventive dishes like panko-encrusted chèvre and grilled octopus in romesco sauce. The vegan "scallop" curry with king oyster mushrooms is a standout.

True Chesapeake:

True Chesapeake is a sophisticated Chesapeake cuisine restaurant inside the historic Whitehall Mill. Most of the menu highlights hail from the raw bar, as the restaurant has its own local oyster farm. The oysters are served in a variety of ways, including roasted, fried, and topped with Old Bay and butter or Gruyére and black truffles. The cocktail list, made at the centerpiece bar embedded with crushed oyster shells, is the perfect accompaniment.

Thames Street Oyster House:

Thames Street Oyster House is a Chesapeake-meets-New England eatery in Fells Point. Owner Candace Beattie and executive chef-partner Eric Houseknecht have helped remind Baltimore about the importance of oysters. Their raw bar features impeccably shucked oysters, and the menu includes a buttery whole-belly clam roll and a five-pound lobster stuffed with blue crab, shrimp, and scallops. The seasonal sides, like brown sugar baked lima beans, are not to be missed.

The Tilted Row:

The Tilted Row is a destination-worthy restaurant in Bolton Hill, with a deceptive casualness that makes diners feel comfortable. The menu features falafel-encrusted salmon, charred octopus with black-garlic aioli, and lamb kofta with hummus and preserved lemons. They offer an excellent Sunday brunch and Blue-Plate specials like fried chicken and biscuits.

Foraged:

Foraged is a chef-driven independent restaurant in Station North, owned by James Beard Award semifinalist Chris Amendola. The menu is ever-changing, reflecting Amendola's passion for using the freshest, most local ingredients. Signature dishes include a mushroom stew with ricotta and poached egg, and a Maryland-style mushroom "crab cake." The restaurant is committed to sustainability and foraging local ingredients.

La Scala Ristorante Italiano:

La Scala Ristorante Italiano is a classic Italian restaurant in Little Italy, owned by chef-owner Nino Germano for over a quarter-century. The servers are dressed like steam-train conductors, and the pasta is made in-house. The calamari fritti and veal scallopini are outstanding, and the Bolognese, puttanesca, and gamberi fra diavolo pastas are ethereal. Finish your meal with a demitasse of espresso and tiramisu.

Azumi:

Azumi is a waterfront sushi restaurant on the ground floor of the Four Seasons Hotel, featuring an omakase menu and fish flown in daily from Tokyo's Toyosu Market. The nigiri is divine, and the miso black cod is particularly good. Splurge on the Emperor's Sushi Feast for a true culinary experience.

Bunny's Buckets & Bubbles:

Bunny's Buckets & Bubbles is a whimsical dining destination in Fells Point, created by Top Chef alum Jesse Sandlin. The pink walls, rabbit-themed art, and bubble chandeliers set the tone. The menu features buckets of crisp fried chicken, flaky biscuits, and perfectly paired bottles of Champagne. The shrimp and grits, smothered in shrimp cream, is a coastal comfort food masterpiece.

Charleston:

Charleston is a paragon of white-tablecloth dining, owned by Tony Foreman and James Beard-nominated Cindy Wolf. After 26 years, they continue to hit it out of the park with their attention to detail and artistry. The menu showcases Wolf's culinary travels to Michelin-starred spots in France. The front of the house is flawless, with oenophile Foreman and genial maître d'hotel Peter Keck providing impeccable service.

Loch Bar:

Loch Bar is an upscale Maryland seafood house in Annapolis, showcasing the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay. The rockfish ceviche and scallops with ponzu-shiitake brown butter are fresh and flavourful. It can be challenging to get a reservation during the warmer months, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

Puerto 511:

Puerto 511 is a hidden gem in downtown Baltimore, tucked away off a side street. Peruvian chef-owner Jose Victorio Alarcon's minimalist dining room offers a perfectly orchestrated series of dishes, like shrimp in sweet chile sauce and grilled veal skewers. The restaurant is BYOB, and they also offer pisco sours, the traditional Peruvian cocktail.

Duck Duck Goose:

Duck Duck Goose is an outstanding French restaurant in Fell's Point, owned by Ashish Alfred. The menu features classic Parisian appetizers like escargot and duck liver pâté, and the roasted duck breast is rich and tender. The croissant bread pudding, topped with caramel, is a light and delectable dessert.

DiPasquale's:

DiPasquale's is a great Italian market and deli in Highlandtown, recommended for the best subs and Italian food in Baltimore.

Clavel:

Clavel, located in Fell's Point, is at the top of every list and conversation about the best food in Baltimore.

Faidley's:

Faidley's, a seafood stall in Lexington Market, is a must-visit for visitors wanting to try Baltimore's famous crab cakes.

Thames Street Oyster House:

Thames Street Oyster House is a go-to spot for oysters and a great take on Baltimore's orange crush cocktail.

Magdalena:

Magdalena, located inside The Ivy Hotel, offers innovative interpretations of Maryland cuisine and an extensive selection of whiskeys and cocktails.

Le Comptoir du Vin:

Le Comptoir du Vin is a French bistro in Station North, serving rustic countryside food with a creative twist.

Tio Pepe:

Tio Pepe is a long-running Spanish and Mediterranean restaurant in Baltimore, known for its puffed potatoes and soft-shell crabs.

Azumi:

Azumi, located in the Four Seasons Hotel, offers an omakase menu and fish flown in daily from Tokyo.

Loch Bar:

Loch Bar, in the heart of Annapolis, showcases the best of the Chesapeake Bay with a modern twist.

Ekiben:

Ekiben has multiple locations and is known for its Taiwanese curry chicken and steamed broccoli.

Alma Cocina Latina:

Alma Cocina Latina, in Station North, serves Latin gyoza, Caribbean scallops, and a stunning burrata salad.

The Oregon Grille:

The Oregon Grille is a rustic and elegant restaurant in Baltimore County that recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation. Their new menu includes a potato skin-caviar appetizer and a bison rib-eye that is a must-try.

Ananda:

Ananda is a terrific Punjabi restaurant in a Fulton development, owned by brothers Binda and Keir Singh. The menu features traditional dishes like garam masala goat and chicken biryani, as well as modern creations like burrata salad. They have their own nearby farm, ensuring the finest and freshest ingredients.

Antrim 1844 and The Smokehouse Restaurant:

Antrim 1844 and The Smokehouse Restaurant offer a dining experience that feels like a vacation. Located in a 19th-century estate-turned-quaint-hotel, the restaurant provides a cozy and elegant atmosphere. The six-course tasting menu showcases French-inspired cooking, including grilled octopus and pan-seared halibut.

Ash Bar:

Ash Bar, located in the Ulysses Hotel, offers elevated bistro fare with a fun and festive vibe. The menu features a delicate pan-roasted salmon, rigatoni Bolognese, and a classic roast chicken. The preparations are solid, and the price point is reasonable.

Hersh's Pizza and Drinks:

Hersh's is a top pizzeria in South Baltimore, located in a big brick building that once housed a barbecue joint. The Neapolitan-style pies, cooked in a 5,000-pound wood-burning oven, are spectacular, with a classic margherita and a New Haven-style clam pie. The pasta is also excellent, and the swordfish over couscous is a satisfying entree.

La Cuchara:

La Cuchara is a Basque-country restaurant inside historic Meadow Mill, offering a feast of classic and creative dishes. Chef Ben Lefenfeld's ever-changing menu showcases the region's famed grilled dishes and seafood. The whole-grilled eggplant with ricotta and strip steak with black-garlic butter are standout dishes.

Magdalena:

Magdalena, located inside The Ivy Hotel, offers a bistro-style menu that draws from local fishermen and farmers. The crispy sea bass with chanterelles and golden Amish chicken are seasonal highlights. The whiskey selection and Wine Spectator-awarded bottle list elevate the dining experience.

La Scala Ristorante Italiano:

La Scala Ristorante Italiano is a classic Italian restaurant in Little Italy, with a quarter-century of history. The pasta is made in-house, and the calamari fritti and veal scallopini are outstanding. Finish your meal with a demitasse of espresso and tiramisu.

Ammoora:

Ammoora is Baltimore's first fine-dining Syrian restaurant, located inside the Ritz-Carlton Residences. The menu is an ode to Syria, with dishes like chargrilled lamb kofta and tangy cucumber yogurt dip. The space exudes elegance, with mother-of-pearl-inlaid furniture and Arabic coffee carts.

Cinghiale:

Baltimore's Maritime History

Baltimore has a rich maritime history, which is showcased in its Inner Harbour, home to several historic ships and a lighthouse that serve as floating museums. These vessels played a significant role in shaping the city's maritime heritage and offer a unique insight into life at sea. Here is a detailed account of Baltimore's maritime history:

The USS Constellation is a majestic sloop-of-war that was constructed in 1854. It holds the distinction of being the last all-sail warship built by the Navy and the last Civil War-era ship still afloat. The USS Constellation was part of the African Squadron, valiantly intercepting slave ships and rescuing over 3,700 men, women, and children. The ship underwent a meticulous restoration process between 1996 and 1999, preserving much of its original material. Visitors can explore its four decks, each serving different purposes, including artillery storage, crew quarters, and sailing operations.

The USS Torsk, a Tench-class submarine, is another notable vessel in Baltimore's maritime history. Commissioned by the US Navy in 1944, the USS Torsk achieved fame for sinking the last enemy ships of WWII. After the war, it alternated between training duties and active deployments. The submarine has been a memorial and historic site in Baltimore since 1972, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of submariners during the war.

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter WHEC 37, also known by its hull ID, is the last surviving ship that fought in the attack on Pearl Harbor. This vessel served for over 50 years before being decommissioned in 1986 and designated a National Historic Landmark two years later. The WHEC 37 performed a range of duties, from search and rescue operations to drug busts, and even provided civilian aid during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the deck, berthing areas, mess deck, and officer's quarters, gaining a deeper understanding of its illustrious past.

Lightship 116 (LV116) Chesapeake, completed in 1930, was once a guiding light for other vessels, patrolling and inspecting maritime traffic. With a crew of 16 men, it served for 40 years before technological advancements rendered it obsolete. The Chesapeake is now a floating museum, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the life of its crew.

The Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse, built in 1856, is one of the oldest Chesapeake lighthouses still standing. It was once an isolated station, manned by the US Lighthouse Service and later the US Coast Guard, serving as a general aid for ship navigation. Lighthouse keepers diligently kept the lamp lit from sundown to sunrise and sounded the fog bell continuously during foggy conditions. The lighthouse now houses an extensive exhibit of artefacts and information on lighthouses in the Chesapeake region, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Frequently asked questions