INNER HARBOR • Baltimore (Continued from page 33) The admission-free Walters Art Museum delivers art and artifacts spanning more than 5,000 years, while across from the Walters, the Johns Hopkins-a liated Peabody Institute contains an art gallery, public library and music academy, and hosts music and dance performances. From here, visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Completed in 1821, it is known as “America’s First Cathedral” and is considered one of the fi nest examples of neo-classical architecture in the world. As you approach Baltimore’s famous waterfront area, other cultural attractions take center stage. These range from the Royal Farms Arena, specializing in concerts and professional sporting events, to the Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center. Cornerstone of the city’s recent westside renaissance, the Hippodrome presents rich and diverse entertainment amid early 20th-century grandeur. National Aquarium, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Maryland Science Center, Port Discovery Children’s Museum and the American Visionary Art Museum o er fun for all ages. Guided heritage walking tours are also o ered, connecting 20 historic sites and museums. Just south of the main harbor area is Federal Hill, where Cross Street Market sells the usual fresh seafood and locally grown produce along with a variety of unusual products like pigs’ ears, pickled eggs and ox tails. If you are looking for more conventional dining options, enjoy a nice meal at one of the many taverns, restaurants and pubs that line the streets. After dark, explore the energetic nightlife. Fans of professional sports will want to visit Camden Yards, home to the Baltimore Orioles baseball team, and M&T Bank Stadium, the roost of football’s Baltimore Ravens. Learn about Maryland’s proud athletic heritage at the Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum and Sports Legends at Camden Yards. Stop by the Baltimore Visitor Center to pick up a Harbor Pass for discounted entry to several of these attractions, as well as the Top of the World Observation Level, located atop the world’s tallest pentagonal building, the World Trade Center in Baltimore. ■ Inner Harbor Area The Inner Harbor area, Baltimore’s main commercial center, is a hub for restaurants, shopping and waterfront attractions. The SIDE TRIP VISITBALTIMORE Follow the Belgian Block streets of Fells Point to pubs, eateries and eclectic specialty shops. This waterfront National Historic District is also a gathering place for artists such as Robert McClintock, whose studio is located on Thames Street. Baltimore.org/neighborhoods-maps-transportation/fells-point VISITBALTIMORE modern architecture, with the highlight being Charles Center, a striking metal and glass building designed by modern architectural pioneer Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. 1-877-333-4455 | www.visitmaryland.org | 35 MARYLAND LORE: Baltimore’s fi nancial district is a mix of old and
MD Scenic Byways Digital Guide: Page 35
