Local Guides World
Top Historical landmarks in Baltimore, United States
Top Rated Historical landmarks in Baltimore
Eutaw Place Swan Fountain
General Alfred Booth Fountain
Baltimore Heritage Walk
Francis Scott Key Fountain
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
The Marble Fountain
The Wallace Monument
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Broadway Pier
Washington Monument
Marquis de Lafayette Statue
Washington Monument
Top Reviewed Historical landmarks in Baltimore
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Washington Monument
Washington Monument
Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum
Fort Armistead
Broadway Pier
Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse
Billie Holiday Statue
Cylburn Mansion
Marquis de Lafayette Statue
Baltimore Harbor Lighthouse
Marquis de Lafayette Statue
Francis Scott Key Fountain
Billie Holiday Statue
Washington Monument
Memorial to Armistead
The Wallace Monument
Fort Armistead
Eutaw Place Swan Fountain
Baltimore Heritage Walk
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum
Old Town Mall Historic Site
Baltimore, a city steeped in history, offers a plethora of historical landmarks that showcase its rich heritage. From the birthplace of the American national anthem to the intriguing tales of its maritime past, Baltimore's historical sites are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey through the best Baltimore historical landmarks. So, grab your walking shoes and prepare to step back in time.
1. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Our journey begins at the iconic Fort McHenry, a symbol of American resilience during the War of 1812. This star-shaped fort successfully defended Baltimore Harbor, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write the "Star-Spangled Banner." Walk through the visitor center and imagine the historic battle that took place here.
2. USS Constellation
Step aboard the USS Constellation, the last all-sail warship built by the United States Navy. This historic vessel, docked in the Inner Harbor, offers a glimpse into the life of sailors during the 19th century. The ship's history and its role in the Civil War make it a must-visit landmark.
3. Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum
For literature enthusiasts, the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum is a hauntingly beautiful attraction. This small brick house was once the residence of the famed poet and writer Edgar Allan Poe. Explore the rooms where Poe penned some of his most renowned works and learn about his enigmatic life.
4. B&O Railroad Museum
Travel back to the golden age of American railroading at the B&O Railroad Museum. This museum houses an impressive collection of locomotives and carriages, including the "Tom Thumb," the first American-built steam locomotive. Discover the role of railroads in shaping the nation's history.
5. Maryland Historical Society
The Maryland Historical Society offers a deep dive into the state's history. With an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and art, this museum provides a comprehensive overview of Maryland's past. Don't miss the opportunity to explore their archives and exhibitions.
6. George Peabody Library
Baltimore's George Peabody Library is a paradise for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike. This 19th-century library, with its stunning atrium and ornate decor, houses a remarkable collection of rare books and manuscripts.
7. Mount Vernon Place
Wander through Mount Vernon Place, a historic neighborhood that exudes charm and elegance. You'll find impressive 19th-century architecture, including the Washington Monument, the first architectural monument to honor George Washington.
8. Hampton National Historic Site
Hampton National Historic Site is a sprawling estate that showcases life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Tour the grand mansion, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, and gain insight into the lives of the Ridgely family and enslaved African Americans.
9. The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House
Discover the story behind the Star-Spangled Banner, the American national anthem, at the Flag House. This historic home was where Mary Pickersgill created the massive flag that flew over Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore.
10. National Great Blacks In Wax Museum
Our final stop is the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, a unique institution dedicated to African American history and culture. Through lifelike wax figures and immersive exhibits, this museum provides an invaluable perspective on the contributions of Black Americans throughout history.
In conclusion, Baltimore's historical landmarks are a testament to the city's pivotal role in American history and culture. From the inspiring defense of Fort McHenry to the eerie tales of Edgar Allan Poe, each landmark offers a unique glimpse into the past. So, plan your visit to Baltimore and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history that this remarkable city has to offer.
Reviews
It was a beautiful fall day and we got to walk along the river to the fort. It starts in the tourist center where there is a multimedia presentation that tells how the fort was the inspiration for the Star Spangled Banner. But there is much more to this fort than that. You will see artifacts, learn about the War of 1812 and how that was a pivotal moment in the history of the US (hint: we weren't always a super power). Layer on top of that the recruiting center for two world wars, an 1100 bed hospital that pioneered plastic surgery for the returning soldiers, statues, and expert guides and you are in for a wonderful experience. There are some really big cannons there too, and examples of different types of shells designed to be effective against people, rigging, or infrastructure.
Now if all you are interested in is people you have a great variety of those too. I could identify at least 12 different languages being spoken from all different parts of the world. The curators are very knowledgeable and it runs deep. Don't hesitate to ask lots of questions to gain some great insights into how things truly were (not exactly like I was taught in third grade).
Now if all you are interested in is people you have a great variety of those too. I could identify at least 12 different languages being spoken from all different parts of the world. The curators are very knowledgeable and it runs deep. Don't hesitate to ask lots of questions to gain some great insights into how things truly were (not exactly like I was taught in third grade).
I lOVE U.S. history! The fort that won the battle that produced the Star Spangle Banner - AWESOME!!!!
You need to watch the movie in the visitor center - all the way to the end. Very nice.
Read the signs inside the fort - so much to learn about the fort, during the war of 1812 and beyond,
You need to watch the movie in the visitor center - all the way to the end. Very nice.
Read the signs inside the fort - so much to learn about the fort, during the war of 1812 and beyond,
Not in the best neighborhood and had abandoned cars in front of house. After dodging sleeping people while walking up it a neat looking place but definitely not a must see place.
Dark, crowded and gloomy, Poe's home has been preserved and it's hard to imagine several adults living in these tiny cramped rooms. Winters must have been awful. The stairs are tight, twisty and dangerous. Worth the visit to walk the same floors that Poe did.
We had a great time visiting the fort with family. The staff was very helpful and pleasant. There are great views of the scenery on top of the fort too. I highly recommend stopping by if you are in the area. This is also a national park stamping point.
Wonderful place! Very well preserved! One of the most historical places in the United States!
A guided tour is absolutely the way to go and is so much easier than any other historical place I've been to!
The access to the different rooms and areas is fantastic! The views are fantastic! It's amazing to think what it would've been like from a historical sense but even today it is so picturesque.
Even if you didn't go as a tourist to the fort, the grounds serve as a nice walking/running path. During the time I was there, I saw numerous people who were clearly not tourists, walking around the area. What a great thing!
Would highly recommend making it a point to stop and see the birthplace of the National Anthem!
A guided tour is absolutely the way to go and is so much easier than any other historical place I've been to!
The access to the different rooms and areas is fantastic! The views are fantastic! It's amazing to think what it would've been like from a historical sense but even today it is so picturesque.
Even if you didn't go as a tourist to the fort, the grounds serve as a nice walking/running path. During the time I was there, I saw numerous people who were clearly not tourists, walking around the area. What a great thing!
Would highly recommend making it a point to stop and see the birthplace of the National Anthem!
Very nice historical site that takes care to tell the stories of its significance across the early years of the country up through its use as a hospital during WW1. The gounds are well kept and open with easy to navigate walkways that take you into the heart of the fort. Once there you can go inside the buildings that are there and see what life was like in the fort previous times. There is an good display of an officer's mess explaining how they would gather to discuss and teach teach tactics to the junior officers. One building is set aside to the significance of the battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812. Outside you can walk the defense line amongst some the cannons and take in the great view of Baltimore's harbor.
Although there is a lot of trash and stuff around still a magnificent place full of history. Plus a great view of the Bridge and sunset during the early morning
Great piece of history and self paced. Reservations are needed, but there were some walk ups. For fans and history buffs, plan to spend the full hour. The house is very small, so it's an easy walk thru and can be done in 20 minutes. House is very authentic and minimally decorated. April, who spoke about the home and time period, has been with the house for 30 years. She has so many wonderful stories and answered all our questions. It is an amazing part of the big Poe tour if you add it to multiple other sites like visiting the gravesite. Gift shop is small and sizes limited.
The Edgar Allan Poe house and museum was the main reason I went to Baltimore and in the end, I was incredibly happy I dud. The house itself is incredibly well kept, Cramped only because it's an old house that was made that way and just pretty overall from the inside and out! The people working there were pretty cool to! They knew there stuff and knew once they had said their piece, to let visitors walk about as needed! The Exhibits on display are varied and just neat. They're spread throughout the museum and vary from Poes family tree and some of his personal belongings! Accompanying information gives you the details on each Exhibit, from the bottom to the top! If there were any complaints I have, it's the Crampedness is a bit overwhelming and the area it is in is not so much BAD just not well kept! That aside the Edgar Allan Poe house and museum is great, highly recommended by me and a staple of Baltimore culture and at a reasonable price no less!
Videos and pictures are of the outside and inside of the Museum, Exhibits, and info on the Exhibits!
Videos and pictures are of the outside and inside of the Museum, Exhibits, and info on the Exhibits!
A beautiful fort with a lot of cool history! There’s a great intro video at the entrance of the park with lots of air conditioning. The city itself is also just beautiful looking. If I was a local, I would visit every day!
It is in just about the toughest part of Baltimore. So fitting for his art.
The staff is wonderful and supportive.
It is not ADA supportive. Tight quarters as they warn us.
I was wowed.
The staff is wonderful and supportive.
It is not ADA supportive. Tight quarters as they warn us.
I was wowed.
A living preserved artifact of the past, For McHenry is an awesome national monument! The Fort itself is befit by a nice visitor center and park like Path befit by plaques and small dedications to the surrounding area! The Fort section is just as great! From the outside and going in there are TONS of things to see, with personal highlights for me being the inner center were the buildings are and inner artillery around the walls! Everything is incredibly well preserved and looks just as they did during the days they were first put to use! The staff were great too, being incredibly friendly, talkative and interactive, case in point being when the flag was lowered by them and some tourists in the area! My only gripe is I wish I had gotten a better Souvenir but the pamphlet I got was really nice on its own! Other than that? The small admission fee without any paid parking is a small price to pay for visiting such a cool place! Highly recommended, go there if you're in the area!
Pictures and videos are of the whole monument as a whole and the pamphlet I mentioned!
Pictures and videos are of the whole monument as a whole and the pamphlet I mentioned!
What a surprising but neat little monument dedicated to the Scottish Hero wound up finding in Baltimore! The area is really nice and review worthy in its own right! As for the monument itself, it's really well kept, looks awesome up close and at a distance and is just awesome as a whole. Free of charge to visit, though I wonder WHY such a specific monument to William Wallace is in Baltimore I am glad it is and highly recommend visiting it if you're in the area!
Pictures and videos are of the area and monument itself!
Pictures and videos are of the area and monument itself!
‘FREEDOM!’
How beautiful this National Park is. Spend the day outdoors. Bring a picnic lunch, chair, and a good book. Sit by the water and enjoy the views. It does cost to walk inside of the Fort and explore, but it does not cost to walk the beautiful trail in the surrounding area. This is mainly a self guided tour and all outdoors. Bring a hat and plenty of sunscreen if you're planning to visit during summer. In the fall/winter dress appropriately. Sweatshirt for the cooler Temps of fall since u are right on the water. Be sure to stop and watch the quick video about the battle and the Star -Spangled Banner. On your way out, don't forget the gift shop. There are some great gifts you can purchase. My favs are always the National Park patches and medallions for my walking stick. If you're a National Park Pass holder, it is free for two people. You can stamp your passport book at the front counter as you check in.
Hard to describe. Had read about the location as an abandoned relic from the 19th and early 20th century so when I was in the area I decided to give it a visit. The road in is not in great condition, abandoned boats, piles and bags of trash (despite the landfill on the way in), and dubious vehicles parked with occupants along the way. The parking lot is vast, one broken bench to be seen and a smashed trashcan to accompany the heaps of trash and further occupied parked cars. Just down the hill is a pier and boat launch which we're getting use. A fair number of people fishing from the lower stretches into the Bay. The paved trail into the fort itself is overgrown and a few eroded shortcuts have been cut straight from the parking. The fort itself has some interesting art, but you are also hard pressed to find a spot without sexual references in the graffiti. There was an odd man walking back and forth along the lower portion where the entrances into the structure were so I stayed clear on top. Almost as if patrolling (and definitely not state or city sponsored security) and I did not wish to find out what for. Overall an interesting site, but felt uneasy and unsafe almost the entire time I was away from sight of the water and those fishing. Too bad, has great potential but sadly neglected.
historic
I pass it omw to get dope
Great little museum, sharing a portion of Edgar Allan Poe’s life in Baltimore. The house is very modest, showing where Edgar’s family lived around 1832. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and shared all he knew!
Nice place to go fission but there’s a lot of trash lot of potholes and a lot of trees need to be cut. The city needs to clean it up.
The first monument to Washington in the United States. The marble column forms the centerpiece of the four park squares of Mount Vernon Place, a National Historic Landmark District. Entrance into the monument is free, visitors can also purchase a $6 ticket to climb the 227 steps to take in the impressive view of downtown Baltimore.
Showed up without reservation and luckily was able to squeeze in before the 16 person capacity. They accept credit card and you get a freebie with a donation!
For those that read all the plaques like me, it will be a 1 hour foray. Prep for a great experience by reading a poem from Poe's early years!
Accessibility:;
There are about 12 steep and narrow steps up to the attic, that barely the ball of your foot can plant, so elders with walking devices not advised for this part.
For those that read all the plaques like me, it will be a 1 hour foray. Prep for a great experience by reading a poem from Poe's early years!
Accessibility:;
There are about 12 steep and narrow steps up to the attic, that barely the ball of your foot can plant, so elders with walking devices not advised for this part.
An intriguing location for any urbex explorer - Open to the public, but not maintained, so be cautious as always!
Nice place to sit back and gather my thoughts. Peaceful
The staff were very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. It took us about 30 minutes to go through, read everything and talk to the guides which it was enough time because it is only 600 sq. feet. There are signs in every room telling the story of Poe and the family, and what stories he wrote while there and five people lived in this house.
Amazing staff!! They gave me lots of info and had an answer for every question. The stairs were worth it, amazing view!
New buildings should bring new life to those areas! Out with the bad in with next gen.
Art work is amazing, the place is a very neat spectacle to see. Would advise to go with a friend and have protection. The parking lot has alot of parked cars with possible questionable activities. Would not advise being there at night.
Dirtiest, scariest park we’ve been to in a long time despite the photo. Love to know what meetups a done here but I can guess. Luckily there was a police car on road in and out.
Beautiful monument to a great American
This park is in a beautiful location but the upkeep is horrible. Trash everywhere, abandoned cars, potholes and overall neglect. The potential here can be great! Nice views of the Key bridge and Chesapeake Bay
Yesterday I discovered that I have claustrophobia, please can you include some information for Spanish-speaking tourists, I have basic knowledge of English and I lost some details in the explanation, I could not finish to go upstairs since I felt very bad for the reduced space and the few windows, I almost fainted. Apart from that, the place is beautiful and the staff is very friendly. please improve the signs at the monument. Thank you.
Safe walking, decent food options. Poor parking but one would exspect that in Baltimore.
Wonderful
The cost is $6.00 to go to the too of the monument. The view is absolutely fabulous. There are 227 steps to reach the top. Worth it though. Not too much space at the top. Will get crowded with 4-5 people.
I came here yesterday and was greeted warmly by the friendly staff. I was intrigued by the history of the very first "Washington Monument" that was built in George Washington's honor. To enter the monument is for free, but there isn't too much to see inside. For a small fee of $6 you can go up 227 narrow stairs to the top. Going up felt like going up a lighthouse, except the space seems a tad tighter. Once you get to the top you have a nice view of the Downtown/Mt. Vernon area with a slight breeze. Be forewarned that in order to enter and/or do the climb, masks are still required. Overall, this is definitely a landmark for anyone to visit while staying in Baltimore.
One of my favorite landmarks in Mount Vernon, and also in Baltimore in general. Fascinating history, the uniqueness of the statue at the top, the various other elements surrounding the plaza - honestly, I'm still shocked we have had so much trouble picking a nickname for our city when James Madison said it best. 'Baltimore, the Monumental City'. It's got a nice ring to it, and sure sounds more plausible than 'The City That Reads', or 'The Greatest City' or even 'Charm City'. Maybe 'Birdland' is as accurate, but I digress. I have been here for the lighting ceremony, and that was a heckin' good time, I'll tell you what. I also have climbed the tower, which I strongly recommend if you are curious what your heartbeat sounds like to the other people with you on the climb. Doesn't sound to hard, but when you are roughly 450,000 stairs up it sure doesn't feel like the 210 or so originally promised. Or maybe my cardio is flagging somewhat. Either way, if you want to see black spots in your vision as you look over some amazing views of downtown Baltimore, this climb is for you! This was quite a fun place to visit, and I will be back here again! At the base, where the steps aren't.
Excellent
It was quiet n clean, plenty of parking spaces
Hellooo!! The monument is very well maintained... It is free if you want to get inside but you need to pay $6 if you want to go to the top for a view. No elevator. Jus stairs.
Theres a monitor where you can see live stream by cameras of the view from the top.
The area around is very nice too, especially the church in front...
Theres a monitor where you can see live stream by cameras of the view from the top.
The area around is very nice too, especially the church in front...
Beautiful!!
Only stopped because my daughter is an admirer of Billie Holiday's music. It's in a terrible, run down neighborhood of block after block of ruined and run down row houses that looks like a war zone. I didn't feel unsafe, but man, it's just a hopeless looking neighborhood. A sad area for a sad artist who lived a rough and short life. Otherwise, there's probably no reason I'd ever go see it again.
This monument ihas so many layers to it that you will be moved at the detail that was put into it! Billie Holiday was a very intricate woman and this statue did her justice. From the flowers on her hair qnd in her hand, to the emotion that is sculpted as her face, blown away. I personally liked hat each corner of the base has a song title that she sung, as well as something of importance etched. One side features a man who had been lynched with the song, "Strange Fruit" below. Listen, it's a forgotten gem of the city. Yes, the monument is located in a slummyareq, but, it's a perfect location for it. Lady Day was a rose that grew from concrete, herself.
cute ☺️
this once thriving outdoor shopping district built in 1818 has fallen into disarray. but i still find it to be beautiful in its own way!
This is a nice abandoned site to wander around and get great pics. It must have been great in its day.
The nations first Washington monument, situation in the middle of a historic square. It's definitely worth checking out if you visit the city, you can even climb the monument for some awesome views of the city, there is a entrance fee only if you want to climb the monument. The square itself is worth seeing, it has two beautiful fountains as well as several bronze sculptures. Plenty of benches and small tables with chairs to stop and enjoy the beautiful neighborhood! Lots of good food within blocks.
I love it and it looks a lot better then it did at first more people comes to see her
An impressive statue in front of the Washington monument.
Not much on fishing but lots of people like fishing here. I go here to fly my drone around and over to the fort. You can also get some nice sunset pictures with the bridge and sometimes sailboats for backdrops.
Golden gate
Enjoy walking around and reading about him. Too bad, it was a windy and freezing morning. Didn't stay long.
If they could fix it up it would be av nice place but for now no one should go.
Great Hero for Freedom.
There is a Memorial statue of George Armistead here as well. He is the officer who served as the commander of Fort McHenry (Baltimore attraction) during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812.
My main review of the park that this monument is in: My boyfriend had researched and saw that this park has the nicest view of Baltimore. It does have the best view of Baltimore (Inner Harbor) so far. From this park we saw the Hard Rock Cafe, museums, restaurants, aquarium, baseball field, the harbor, ships/boats, the volleyball courts right next to the water, etc. It is an awesome place to visit. It is on a big hill. We found parking for free near the park and just parked there and walked around for about 30 minutes. So far it is my favorite place in Baltimore. It feels really relaxing here. It has a ton of trees for perfect shading. We did not see any restrooms though so keep that in mind if you have a picnic here or plan to stay for a while. A lot of people walk their dogs here and play with the dogs with frisbies, etc. It is a very clean park. There is a gated playground (not locked) for children (dogs are not allowed in this portion of the park). There were several people with their dogs and children at the park, couples (one couple was getting professional photos done with the Baltimore background), people alone, runners, walkers, and people just hanging out/sitting on the several benches that are all over the park. There is a monument of US Senator/ mayor of Baltimore/Major General Samuel Smith in this park. This was the first monument I saw while walking around. Worth checking out this park. We sat on the bench and just relaxed. I loved this park and hope to go back again someday.
My main review of the park that this monument is in: My boyfriend had researched and saw that this park has the nicest view of Baltimore. It does have the best view of Baltimore (Inner Harbor) so far. From this park we saw the Hard Rock Cafe, museums, restaurants, aquarium, baseball field, the harbor, ships/boats, the volleyball courts right next to the water, etc. It is an awesome place to visit. It is on a big hill. We found parking for free near the park and just parked there and walked around for about 30 minutes. So far it is my favorite place in Baltimore. It feels really relaxing here. It has a ton of trees for perfect shading. We did not see any restrooms though so keep that in mind if you have a picnic here or plan to stay for a while. A lot of people walk their dogs here and play with the dogs with frisbies, etc. It is a very clean park. There is a gated playground (not locked) for children (dogs are not allowed in this portion of the park). There were several people with their dogs and children at the park, couples (one couple was getting professional photos done with the Baltimore background), people alone, runners, walkers, and people just hanging out/sitting on the several benches that are all over the park. There is a monument of US Senator/ mayor of Baltimore/Major General Samuel Smith in this park. This was the first monument I saw while walking around. Worth checking out this park. We sat on the bench and just relaxed. I loved this park and hope to go back again someday.
The mall is no longer in operation, but it is in a prime location just a few steps away from Fells Point and in the shadows of the Baltimore Skyline.
Fantastic work of art and historically potent. A wonderful tribute to Jazz legend Lady Day, Baltimore's own.
But sadly, the statue is calling for a more regular spit shine and site sanitation schedule.
But sadly, the statue is calling for a more regular spit shine and site sanitation schedule.
A nice place to go for a walk and see the inner harbor from above!
it's nice ig
One of America's greatest singers. Nice statue with "Strange Fruit" on the back.
He owned slaves, but still honored and celebrated.
Nice place to take in the view of the city. Kid friendly!
loved the views
Great view over the inner harbour.
Beautiful park overlooking the bay. Has a playground for the kids and nice breezes.
Beautiful monument in a scenic park. Great spot for taking photos!
Very pretty square, if somewhat oppressive in the summer sun.