It was Francis Scott Key who, upon witnessing the failed bombardment of Baltimore by the British in 1812, composed the poem The Star-Spangled Banner that was later to provide the lyrics for the American national anthem. Baltimore has never forgotten its role in the revolution and sites like Fort McHenry are great places to explore a bit of history and gain insight into American values.
Today it is a diverse city of contrasting neighbourhoods; visit Fells Point for heritage, take in the arts around Mount Vernon or chill in Bohemian cafes and watch the cool kids go by in the Southwest area. There can be a real small town vibe to much of Baltimore but you can still head downtown for some sophisticated city treats. It’s been called Charm City, Mobtown and the City of Firsts; there are so many faces to Baltimore that it is likely to be called many more.
Where to stay
Homewood Suites has the one of best locations, a free fitness centre and a reputation for excellent service. The Hilton Garden Inn is similarly well placed with staff that go out of their way to please and great facilities for business travellers and conferences.
Where to eat
Mount Vernon Cultural District has a host of excellent restaurants, such as Restaurante Tio Pepe. Baltimore Magazine rates the Charleston, with its varied American menu, as the top spot in Baltimore, with the seafood treats at the Black Olive a close second.
What to see
Fort McHenry is a great heritage site that has been important in the development of the US; a haunted tour of Fell’s Point provides an alternative history of Baltimore. The Walters Art Museum has some excellent collections and also attempts to make its collections as accessible as possible even to non-art lovers.
