Alex & Brandon
Things To Do
Oriole Park at Camden Yards
If you're planning to enjoy the long weekend here in Baltimore, spend Memorial Day with the O's as they take on the Minnesota Twins.
Pride of Baltimore II
The Pride of Baltimore II is an 'historically-evocative' Baltimore clipper ship (historically-evocative means period look, but modern safety features and procedures). During most years the Pride is available for both deck tours and day sails, no word yet on the 2021 season, but if she's sailing, you won't want to miss it. Baltimore is prettiest from the water.
National Aquarium in Baltimore
The National Aquarium in Baltimore is one of the best in the country. Highlights include the Black Tip Reef, shark alley, the touch pool, and the pavilion that houses both the dolphins and the jellyfish exhibit. If you feel like getting some fresh air afterwards, take a walk past the Power Plant and say hi to Mr Trash Wheel, one of the city's beloved, googly-eyed, litter-collecting barges.
Cross Street Market
Located in the heart of Federal Hill, this market is home to more than a dozen locally-owned restaurants including Ceremony Coffee, Sobeachy Caribbean food, and Taharka Bros ice cream. If you can't find something to whet your appetite inside, take a stroll around the neighborhood. It's packed with enough bars and restaurants to keep even the pickiest eaters happy. If you like the idea of a food hall, but want to explore other parts of the city, Baltimore has lots of options. Unfortunately the granddaddy of them all, the World Famous Lexington Market, is still closed for renovation but you can check out Broadway Market in Fells Point, Mt Vernon Marketplace in Mt Vernon, R House in Remington, or Whitehall Mill Market near Hampden. ***Added bonus: Franklin Cowak (and his fur parents) live about 100 yards from here, so you can stop by and say hello. He is sadly too shy to attend his parents' nuptials but will be welcoming visitors in Federal Hill
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Ft McHenry has guarded the Port of Baltimore since 1803 but its most famous role is unquestionably as the inspiration for the Star Spangled Banner. In fact, if you stand on the ramparts of the fort on a clear day, you can see the star spangled buoy that marks where Francis Scott Key watched the Battle of Baltimore unfold. Ft McHenry has lived many lives, from critical military defense to political prison and later, wartime hospital. Exhibits inside give you the chance to learn about the fort in all of its iterations.
Washington Monument
This Washington Monument isn't quite as famous as its sibling to the south, but it does have the distinction of being the oldest. The statue at the top faces Maryland's capital city, Annapolis, where Washington surrendered his commission as commander in chief of the Continental Army. There are digital, interactive exhibits in the gallery at the base of the statue, and those who are looking to get in some cardio can buy tickets to climb the 227 steps to the lookout (before you go, check the website to confirm that the lookout is open to visitors). If you're not sure about making the climb, head to the Hotel Revival and take the elevator all the way up to grab a bite or a drink at Topside. The view of the monument and the surrounding Mt Vernon area is just as beautiful.
Baltimore Museum of Art
One of Baltimore's preeminent art museums, the BMA is home to thousands of important works from around the world and brimming with fascinating exhibits. While you're there, make the time to take stroll through the sculpture garden and enjoy a crab cake at Gertrude's.
Clavel
Best Mexican food this side of, well, Mexico. It's a strong claim, but Clavel lives up to the hype. Make sure to get at least one quesadilla and don't miss the spicy mezcalitas. It's a first-come-first-served establishment, so if you have some time to kill, head down the street to WC Harlan. This tiny craft cocktail bar is designed to evoke a 1930s speakeasy, right down to the unmarked door and dim lighting. Street art enthusiasts should sneak a peek around the corner, the alley wall features a gorgeous mural by local artist Gaia.