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48 Hours in Baltimore: Where to Eat, Sip, Stay & Play

Photo credit: Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

Trying to pack in as much fun as possible before the summer ends? Instead of heading to your normal Jersey Shore destination for a weekend away, visit Baltimore instead! The bustling city is known for so much more than its iconic harbor, it’s a hub of all things food, drinks and fun (plus there’s mega hotel deals and discounts during the final stretch of summer!). From Federal Hill to Canton, the Aquarium to the Orioles at Camden Yards, there’s so much to explore! To experience Charm City like a local during your weekend stay, here’s what you need to check out:

Eats

After its opening on August 6th, you can start your morning off right with a stop at Little Bird Coffee Bar. The Italian-inspired café will serve specialty coffees and espresso drinks with a side of house made pastries. As for lunch, opt for local favorites Rye Street Tavern and Ida B’s Table. Rye Street is the brainchild of James Beard award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini and dishes up fresh seasonally-inspired meals sourced from local farmers and fishmongers. Ida B’s is a modern soul food hotspot named after the legendary journalist and civil rights activist, Ida B. Wells. Come dinner, make your way to Food Network star Giada De Laurentiiis’ newest restaurant, GDL Italian and carbo load on signature Italian dishes with California flair. For the cherry-on-top of a food-filled day, head to The Charmery at UNION Collective. The Old Bay Caramel and Otterbein Sugar Cookie flavors are local favorites.

Sips

It’s summer so obviously you need to indulge in a few spirits as well. To get you started, head to the Sandlot, James Beard award-winner Spike Gjerde’s spot. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Baltimore’s stunning harbor front. Plus there’s live music, family-friendly games and an exclusive beer called “Soak Up The Sun” by The Brewer’s Art. If you’re looking for a little culture and history while you imbibe, take a tour of the first Guinness Brewery  based on American soil in 64 years (the grand opening is August 3rd!), or head to the Bluebird Cocktail Room, a Hampden-based bar known for its literary-themed libations like “Mrs. Dalloway” and “Jack Rose.” At night, you’ll want to experience The Elk Room. Named one of the best bars in America by Esquire Magazine for good reason, the speakeasy-style spot boasts a lengthy list of cocktails, charcuterie and bites. They also have a strict no cell phones or photographs allowed policy. How refreshing!

Play

Baltimore has so much to offer beyond the harbor, like incredible one-of-a-kind exhibitions. This year through January 2019, The Jewish Museum of Maryland is hosting a thrilling interactive exhibit called Inescapable: The Life and Legacy of Harry Houdini, where guests can try out a few of his infamous illusions. Looking for something a little more active or outdoor? Take a Light Street Cycle tour. You’ll see Baltimore like you’ve never seen before with the option of five guided tours. Last but certainly not least, take the kiddos for a budget-friendly trip to Oriole Park at Camden Yards. For the entire Baltimore Orioles season, kids can get in free! For each regularly-priced Upper Deck ticket purchased, adults can receive up to two additional Upper Deck tickets for children under the age of nine.

Stay

No matter your stay-style, there’s a hotel to suit the whole family in the heart of Baltimore. For a touch of history, book an overnight at the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore. The luxury Fell’s Point hotel sits atop Recreation Pier, which once welcomed immigrants from around the world and later served as a television set before being abandoned. If you’re searching for an artistic oasis, try the Hotel Revival. The once private mansion owned by an art enthusiast and the former site of the Baltimore Museum of Art’s inaugural 1923 exhibition, is now home to an incredible assortment of locally curated artwork, mosaic wallpapers and eclectic antiques. It’s guaranteed to upgrade your Instagram. If location is your biggest concern, opt for the Crowne Plaza Baltimore. Located smack dab in the center of the Inner Harbor, the newly renovated spot offers stunning views and short walks to all the major attractions.

To find more of Baltimore’s most-loved local spots, follow #MyBmore on social media. You’ll get a glimpse of the city through the eyes of those who know it best. Then make sure to tag your own photos to share what you experience during your stay in Baltimore!

 

 

 

 

Experience the Baltimore you’re missing by booking your visit now at baltimore.org.