Downtown Baltimore - Baltimore, MD

A rich testament of the country's history, the city of Baltimore was incorporated by British settlers as early as 1729. The city fended off British attacks during the War of 1812, and suffered further unrest during the Civil War. In 1904, Downtown Baltimore experienced a devastating fire that consumed hundreds of buildings. However, like a phoenix, the Maryland city managed to rise from the ashes stronger than ever.

From the 1970s onwards, efforts at revitalization have resulted in a culturally exciting downtown area. A dazzling variety of festivals and annual events take place in this area, including the Baltimore Book Festival, an Inner Harbor event that brings together avid bookworms and local and national authors.

As a way to blend education and fun, drop by the Port Discovery Children's Museum at Market Place. Kids of all ages enjoy the water room, which includes an expansive three-story climbing structure.

North Charles Street serves as an unofficial restaurant district, but compelling eateries lie scattered throughout the downtown region, giving you plenty to discover on your culinary tour of Downtown Baltimore.

Sotto Sopra breathes new life into Italian favorites. It features a cozy, romantic ambiance and a menu that brims with savory creations. Located on North Charles Street, this ideal date-night spot invites you to try out lobster ravioli, seafood cioppino, lamb tartare and grilled octopus salad. Locals know to head to Sotto Sopra for special celebrations or intimate dining experiences. To sample the cuisine for yourself at a reduced price, visit Sotto Sopra during Baltimore's annual Restaurant Week.

B&O American Brasserie stands within the Hotel Monaco, but you don't need to be a hotel guest to enjoy the decadent American cuisine served at this swanky, railroad-style eatery. A smart choice for Baltimore brunch, the downtown restaurant satisfies your craving for hearty meals with unique twists. Sriracha and honey wings blend spiciness and sweetness together, while the grilled cheese sandwich takes it to the next level with the addition of pork belly. Come back frequently, as the menu evolves and changes.

Tucked away on West Clay, Puerto 511 is off the beaten path, but once you stumble across this Peruvian gem, you'll come back again and again. Be sure to bring along your own bottle of wine, as Puerto 511 operates on a bring-your-own-beer principle. If you purchase the alcohol for your favorite cocktail, the staff can whip up mixed drinks for a small fee. The appetizers stand out as the true stars of the show, featuring flavorful Peruvian recipes such as Ceviche Clasico and Yuquitas Doradas. Top off the meal with a quinoa flan, a dessert that changes everything you thought you knew about the tastiness potential of quinoa.

When it comes to nightlife, Baltimore's downtown dwellers often head to Howl at the Moon, a club with a flair for the dramatic. Positioned along Market Place, Howl at the Moon invites you be more than just a face in the crowd. Audience participation at this dueling piano bar is more than welcome; it's expected. The bands take requests, belting out everything from Golden Oldies to the current Top 40. Bachelorette parties frequently take place at the lively venue, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Be sure to arrive early during Happy Hour for a good seat at this popular spot.

Transportation is an area where Downtown Baltimore really shines. With a high density of businesses and attractions and thorough sidewalk infrastructure, the downtown area stands out as an extremely pedestrian-friendly area.

Biking happens to be a popular option among plenty of downtown professionals and residents, and downtown Baltimore offers generous bike amenities. For $8 a month, you can gain access to the secure Lexington Street Garage.

A free alternative to buses, the Charm City Circulator serves Downtown Baltimore. Running year-round, except on select holidays, this shuttle bus provides service to major attractions and transportation hubs. While partially intended for tourists, the Circulator invites locals to enjoy the convenience of four comprehensive routes. Shuttles reliably arrive every 10 to 15 minutes at official stops.

Hailing a cab in this area tends to be quick and easy. Catch a traditional taxi, from companies such as Yellow Cab of Baltimore or Diamond Cab of Baltimore, on the go. Alternatively, use your phone or app to order a cab. Uber and Lyft, major ride-sharing services, help you get around Downtown Baltimore.

In addition, the Maryland Transit Authority offers you an array of options. The light rail system, the Metro Subway and the MTA bus system all provide access to the greater Baltimore area, as well as connecting you to many spots in Downtown Baltimore. The MARC train, which has a station located on St. Paul Street, takes you to surrounding cities in Maryland and West Virginia.

Travel by water when you use the Harbor Connector and the Baltimore Water Taxi, two services that provide access via the harbor. An all-day pass for the Water Taxi costs only $12, making it an affordable option. Also, from downtown Baltimore, you have access to five interstates, including I-95, I-295, I-395, I-695 and I-83.

Downtown Baltimore plays home to beautiful examples of urban greenery. Federal Hill Park, at Inner Harbor, offers gorgeous views, making this free park a prime spot for local photographers. Kids can explore the playground equipment, and runners get a good workout by using this park as a starting and stopping point for a city jog. Walk your leashed dog at Federal Hill for a taste of the fresh air.

Patterson Park provides space for local sports leagues, with tennis courts and open greenery. A dog park within the bounds of Patterson Park, plus a playground, mean that this spot has something for every visitor.

Annual events keep residents coming to these city parks. Try out free yoga lessons at Center Plaza, and if all that stretching leaves you needing a drink, attend Pints in the Park and sample a range of brews.

Dogs get to run free and meet other pooches at the Liberty Dog Park, a fenced-in area that gives dog-owners useful amenities such as drinking water for pups and on-site doggy bags to clean up messes.

The privilege of living in such a booming neighborhood comes along with a price. The cost of living in downtown Baltimore hovers at about 32 percent higher than the overall Baltimore average. Renting a one-bedroom home in the area can be somewhat pricey. Apartments and lofts cost an average of $1,045 per month. Grabbing a beer at a pub won't break the bank. The average cost of beer in Downtown Baltimore stands at about $8, lower than the national median. Gas prices tend to be comparable to the national range, with prices in Downtown Baltimore standing at only 2 percent less expensive than the average.

Downtown Baltimore's shopping scene encompasses interesting boutiques and unexpected gift shops scattered throughout the area. Mid-range specialty shops, verging towards the more expensive, characterize the retail experience.

The Women's Industrial Exchange has graced Baltimore since the 19th century, making this craft store a true local institution. Maryland artisans create the wares, meaning you can purchase a little piece of Baltimore's spirit and heart every time you shop at this North Charles Street gem. Shop for holiday items or home interior decorations. You may also find unique jewelry and clothing items here. Hippodrome Hatters on West Baltimore Street brings you back to a time when proper hats were essential accessories. Hippodrome specializes in men's hats, and staffers provide custom tailoring and fitting. This old-fashioned, full-service store helps you stylish for work or play. From a felt homburg to a straw fedora, discover headwear for all seasons. Lexington Market stands out as one of the must-visit shopping attractions in downtown Baltimore. Shop for specialized gourmet goods or basic kitchen staples. Make sure to carry cash, as some food stalls do not accept other forms of payment. This sprawling indoor marketplace includes freshly prepared meals and ingredients for your own homemade feast. Find produce, meat and seafood vendors. If all of this shopping gives you an appetite, grab some take-out fried chicken, Chinese cuisine or deli creations to enjoy at home.

For everyday groceries and other essentials, downtown residents can stock their kitchens at stores such as Whole Foods Market. Po Tung Trading, an Asian marketplace, stocks fresh fruits and vegetables. Specialized ingredients fill the shelves at this comprehensive grocery store, from lumpia wrappers to curry paste.