Where to Stay in Baltimore
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Baltimore
Inner Harbor
Mid-rangeA bustling waterfront hub filled with attractions, shops, and restaurants, catering heavily to tourists.
- +Abundant tourist attractions
- +Easy access to water taxis
- +Plenty of dining and shopping options
- -Can feel overly touristy and commercial
- -Higher prices due to tourist focus
🛡️ Generally safe during the day with many people around; at night, stick to well-lit and populated areas as some side streets can be deserted.
Federal Hill
Mid-rangeHistoric neighborhood with charming streets, offering great city views and a lively dining and bar scene.
- +Excellent restaurants and bars
- +Beautiful park with panoramic city views
- +Historic charm and architecture
- -Can get crowded on weekends
- -Parking can be challenging
🛡️ Generally safe, especially along the main commercial streets; be aware of your surroundings in quieter residential side streets at night.
Fells Point
Mid-rangeHistoric maritime neighborhood with cobblestone streets, lively pubs, and a vibrant music scene.
- +Historic atmosphere and charm
- +Excellent live music venues and pubs
- +Diverse culinary scene
- -Can be very noisy at night, especially on weekends
- -Cobblestone streets can be challenging for some
🛡️ Generally safe along the main waterfront and commercial streets; can become rowdy late at night with increased potential for petty crime in less populated alleys.
Mount Vernon
LuxuryBaltimore's cultural heart, known for its stunning Victorian architecture, museums, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
- +Rich in history and culture
- +Beautiful architecture and green spaces
- +Upscale dining and boutique shopping
- -Can feel quiet on weeknights
- -Some areas can appear neglected
🛡️ Safe during the day, especially around cultural institutions; some areas can feel isolated and less safe after dark, particularly on less traveled streets.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 250/day
Hidden Gems in Baltimore
Lesser-known spots the locals love
American Visionary Art Museum
This unique museum celebrates self-taught artists, showcasing vibrant and unconventional works that are often overlooked by mainstream institutions. It's a place filled with raw creativity and inspiring stories.
Lexington Market
FREEAs one of the oldest public markets in the United States, Lexington Market is a bustling hub of local flavors and diverse food vendors. Grab a classic Baltimore crab cake or explore a variety of ethnic cuisines from vendors who have been there for generations.
Safety in Baltimore
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Baltimore is a city with areas of both safety and concern. Stick to well-lit, populated tourist areas like the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill, and Mount Vernon during the day and early evening. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated or unfamiliar neighborhoods.
At Night
Exercise caution, especially after dark. Stick to busy, well-lit streets and areas known for nightlife. Avoid walking through quiet residential streets or areas that appear deserted. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers.
- 2Distraction thefts in crowded tourist areas.
- 3Fake charity collectors.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Baltimore