With a history that spans three centuries, Baltimore is a true renaissance city. Its transformation over the last 25 years is nothing short of phenomenal. It's also one of the most affordable cities on the East Coast and is full of distinctive charm: just consider Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, row houses, marble steps, and a friendly local greeting that's unique, "hon." Baltimore is a big city with a small-town feel, and its many neighborhoods with their distinct cultures turn an ordinary trip into an adventure. The Inner Harbor is acknowledged as the gem of the city and offers a multitude of activities for tourists, business people, and local residents. For a city of its size, Baltimore boasts outstanding cultural institutions. A listing of local attractions includes: Art Museums
American Visionary Art Museum
Baltimore Museum of Art
The Walters Art Museum Musical Organization/Institutions
Baltimore Symphony
The Peabody Institute Major Sports Teams
Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore Ravens Inner Harbor Attractions
Harbor Cruises
Harborplace
Hard Rock Café Baltimore
Maryland Science Center (with IMAX)
The National Aquarium
ESPN Zone Baltimore is only an hour away from Washington, D.C. Drive a bit farther to the east of the city and you'll feel the cool waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Go about the same distance to the west, and you'll need ski and snowboards to get around. For all these reasons and more, Maryland is aptly named "The Land of Pleasant Living." For more information about the area, visit the Baltimore Area Convention and Visitor Center at www.baltimore.org.
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