Many college students face unprecedented boredom and stagnant behavior when they go home for the summer. Being from Baltimore, all the time I here: “there’s nothing to do here” and “Baltimore is so boring;” these are popular phrases amongst natives of Baltimore. Now, coming from college (a college that’s on many “Party School” lists) and a city with a burgeoning nightlife like Washington, D.C., coming back to Baltimore can be quite underwhelming. Hopefully, this list can help make summer a little less boring in Charm City.
1. National Aquarium
The National Aquarium is in the Inner Harbor in Downtown Baltimore. Many people, after a certain age, forget about the aquarium and how fun it is. Now, it may be a little expensive, but on Fridays after 5 PM, it’s half off! Definitely swing by the aquarium if you’re looking for a fun experience and go on a Friday evening if you’re looking for an inexpensive one.
2. Festivals
Baltimore is filled with festivals in the summer. There’s Artscape, Afram, various festivals different types of music, and so much more. For a comprehensive list of these festivals and events go here.
3. Federal Hill Park
Federal Hill Park overlooks the Inner Harbor and has a beautiful view, especially at night. It’s beautiful, it’s peaceful, and it’s free (plus the park has swings!). If you just want to lay on the grass and relax, have a picnic, or you just want to swing on the playground, take a trip down to Federal Hill.
4. Museums
Baltimore has some very great museums including the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Walters Art Museum, the Reginald F Lewis Museum of Maryland African-American History and Culture, and more. While all of these aren’t free, you should still check them out if you’re into museums.
5. Maryland Zoo
Who doesn’t love zoos? Tickets are $18 and you can order them online if you want to take a visit to the zoo.
6. Take a trip to DC
Train tickets (roundtrip) are $14 to get to DC. You can spend a day, night, or weekend in DC and explore all of the fun things DC has to offer. You can check out my listicle on inexpensive things to do in DC right here.
7. Fell’s Point
Fell’s Point is filled with restaurants, bars, and other fun things to do. You can go here to find fun attractions and restaurants in Fell’s Point.
8. Concerts
There are countless concerts and festivals at Soundstage, Lyric Opera House, Pier 6, and Post Merriweather Pavilion. Go on the websites and see what musicians are coming in the area. If you’re adventurous, go to a cheap concert randomly.
9. Power Plant Live
Power Plant Live is another popular destination filled with restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. It’s an area with multiple venues and has various concerts and events on the weekends. If you’re interested go here for more information.
10. Inner Harbor
While I’ve mentioned certain events in the Inner Harbor, the Inner Harbor at large is filled with restaurants, live performances, and beautiful views. Just walking around with a group of friends is fun. In addition, there are various stores and shops such as The Gallery.
11. Farmer’s Market
The farmer’s market is one of my favorite places to go during the summer. It’s filled with diverse cuisine, unique crafts, and beautiful jewelry and clothing. You can also get all of the fresh produce, meats, or cheese you need. The farmer’s market is open Sundays from 7 a.m to 12 p.m at the following address: E Saratoga St & Holliday St, Baltimore, MD 21202.
