Unmissable Tourist Spots at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is a historic shipping district revitalized in the 1980s. While the city of Baltimore offers numerous tourist attractions, you could easily keep yourself busy for a weekend in the Inner Harbor alone. It boasts the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, Port Discovery Children’s Museum, multiple options for water cruises and taxis, live music and performance venues, diverse restaurant and shopping options, and historic ship tours. Of course, you could also take a stroll among the buildings and waterfront, soaking up the sun and sights with your friends and family. 

Depending on where home is for you, getting to Baltimore might require a bit of a drive. Make sure you’re set up in a set of reliable wheels by visiting Koons Clarksville Chevrolet Buick GMC. Check out their inventory of new and used cars, and get ready for a fun weekend exploring the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. We’ve put together a list of our top activities in the harbor, and we’re sure they’ll keep you busy for a fun weekend on Maryland’s coast.

Take a Stroll Through the Inner Harbor

Start your visit to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor with a visit to the Baltimore Visitors Center, located conveniently along the promenade. In addition to the recommendations we’ve made here, you can get the inside scoop from expert staff on current exhibits, activities, and entertainment. They also have maps and can provide directions to your next stop. 

After your visit, head out on foot along the harbor to soak up the sights and sounds. There’s plenty to enjoy for free just by walking along the waterfront promenade while you plan your visit. Then, relax with a meal or a drink at one of the many incredible restaurants (we recommend Rusty Scupper or Miss Shirley’s Cafe) before heading to the next attraction.

Cruise Through the Harbor 

If viewing the water from the shore just isn’t enough for you, consider hopping on a cruise or water taxi and seeing Baltimore from the water itself. Baltimore Water Taxi offers many tours, from their Brews Cruise or BYO Cruise to Bite of Baltimore to customized private charters and even dog-friendly experiences. Or join a sightseeing tour with Watermark Journey, such as their classic Baltimore Harbor Cruise with a recorded narration to tell you all about the harbor’s history and attractions. In addition, city Cruises by Hornblower has excellent dinner cruise options with a buffet, drinks, and music included. 

Meet Over 20,000 Animals at the National Aquarium

The National Aquarium in Baltimore (formerly the Baltimore Aquarium) has been ranked as one of the top three aquariums in the nation. And it’s easy to see why this famous aquarium received such an accolade as you view award-winning exhibits and learn about their unique and exotic occupants. Beyond the types of exhibits you would expect, you’ll find the Amazon River Forest, Australia: Wild Extremes, Dolphin Discovery, Maryland: Mountains to the Sea, and more.

Plan your visit: the aquarium is open every day of the week with varying hours. They schedule special shows, such as puffin feeding, shark experience, and 4D Theater films, with daily times posted on their website. You can even sign up for early access tours or behind-the-scene tours for an extra unique and exclusive experience.

Keep Entertained at Power Plant Live!

One of the biggest entertainment attractions next to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is Power Plant Live!, a premier dining and entertainment destination. There are numerous bars and restaurants to whet your whistle and give you the energy you need to enjoy a late-night out. Live music can be found at five different venues. We recommend visiting the website for Ram’s Head Live!, Baltimore’s premier music venue, to see what’s on the calendar ahead of your visit. Power Plant Live! is open to adults only in the evenings, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Explore the Maryland Science Center

The Maryland Science Center inspires scientists in visitors of all ages. By taking the questions, “how come?” and “what if?” they explore the origins of discovery and innovation. Hands-on experiences are great for young scientists. The Planetarium will have everyone enthralled as stars zoom across the sky right in front of you. The IMAX theater has regular shows that are larger than life. There’s truly something to entertain every family member at this museum. There’s also a science shop so that you can buy a unique souvenir from your visit to Baltimore.

Take the Kids to the Port Discovery Children’s Museum 

For more family-friendly activities, head to the Port Discovery Children’s Museum. This museum is ranked as one of the top five children’s museums in the United States and will certainly keep your family entertained for hours. Kids and parents alike can try their hand at animation, learn about ships and harbors, practice performing arts, climb on the SkyClimber exhibit, and much more. Because of this venue’s popularity, we recommend that you book tickets in advance.

Tour Historic Ships

Docked within the Baltimore Inner Harbor, you’ll find historic ships dating back to the 1800s. Many of these offer special tours and visiting hours for people with an affinity for maritime history. For example, you can explore the gun deck and captain’s cabin of the USS Constellation or the torpedo room of the USS Submarine Torsk. Crew members can answer any questions and provide interesting facts to visitors. The harbor also has a lighthouse from 1856, which is definitely worth visiting.

Enjoy Your Weekend Visit to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor

Whether you’re a Baltimore native looking to experience something new, or you’re heading to Charm City for the first time, we hope this list has inspired you. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained for a weekend, or more, right here in the Baltimore Inner Harbor. So let us know if we missed your favorite museum, venue, or activity. 

Head to the Inner Harbor in a New Set of Wheels From Koons

Be sure to get yourself set up in a new car before you head to Baltimore by visiting Koons Clarksville Chevrolet Buick GMC. With their extensive selection of new and certified pre-owned GM vehicles, you’re bound to find the best car for you. Their friendly and trustworthy staff look forward to your visit and getting you behind the wheel and on your way to Baltimore.
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Image via Pixabay by BruceEmmerling

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