Inner Harbor has it all: a large collection of nationally famous shops and mouth watering restaurants, an aquarium favored by visitors and locals, historically significant ships, and a beautiful landscape set against Baltimore’s waterfront. A trip to Baltimore wouldn’t be complete without visiting this part of town, while plenty of attractions keep visitors returning.

The historic ships located in Inner Harbor are an interactive way to relive Baltimore’s past. The USS Constellation dates back to the late 1700s and is open for the public to walk around and admire her grand scale and size. Stepping onboard the USS Constellation is an eye opening experience in understanding how men aboard the ship spent their time working and unwinding in relatively tight quarters.

With four decks to explore, the USS Constellation reveals how the difference in lifestyles the common men had. They sleept in hammocks, while the captain and higher ranking officials had private quarters. Rows of cannons still line the interior of the ship, creating a unique vantage point to their world.

Stationed nearby the USS Constellation is the USS Torsk, a submarine that was actively used during World War II. Visitors are able to walk through the entire length of the narrow submarine and see exactly how this massive structure helped protect the United States. The rooms aboard the USS Torsk are full of floor to ceiling buttons and controls, making for one of the most captivating experiences in all of the Inner Harbor’s historic ships.

A walk through the submarine reveals how men in the navy managed the large vessel, slept in small bunks, and dined in a communal dining hall. Towards the end of the walk through, visitors can see where the USS Torsk once launched its torpedos while at war.

After taking in the sights of the historic ships at sea level, stopping by the World Trade Center’s observation deck is a prime spot for getting a panoramic view of the Inner Harbor, along with the whole city of Baltimore. Located just steps away from the historic ships, the twenty-seventh floor observation area is a wrap around scenic overlook that opens up to breath taking views of the city.

Walking around the pentagon shaped layout of the building gives way to the peacefulness of the harbor and majestic views of Baltimore’s skyline. The observation deck at the top of the World Trade Center is a perfect way to see Charm City from up above. One of Inner Harbor’s most popular attractions is the National Aquarium. Located in a uniquely designed glass structure, the National Aquarium houses favorite underwater animals, along with birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

There are over 16,000 specimens in the National Aquarium and plenty of exhibits that bring an educational, yet fun, approach to learning about these animals. A 4D immersion theater brings people up close to the animals through a movie, while Our Ocean Planet is an exciting way to see a dolphin show.

Aside from Inner Harbor being the epicenter for attractions in Baltimore, it is also a favorite shopping and dining destination. Harborplace & The Gallery are full of nationally known retail stores, where shoppers can indulge in stores such as Coach, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, and Forever 21.

It’s easy to build up an appetite after a day full of sightseeing and shopping, and Inner Harbor makes it extremely easy to find a delicious restaurant in the vicinity. Diners can choose from generous portioned plates at The Cheesecake Factory, get a slice of deep dish pizza at UNO Chicago Grill, or grab a burger at Five Guys Burgers & Fries. A full day can be spent just by shopping and dining in Inner Harbor, as it is one of the most visited areas in all of Baltimore.

With close proximity to Inner Harbor, only two blocks away, the SpringHill Suites is a welcoming, contemporary hotel perfect for unwinding after a full day of sight seeing. A part of the internationally known Marriott hotel company, SpringHill Suites is housed on the property of an old bank, where extravagantly large ceilings and marble staircases can be seen as qualities of the bank’s past. As all the rooms are suites, there is the option of having a studio, one bedroom, or two bedroom suite.

This hotel brings an air of elegance while remaining down to earth. A standard studio suite comes with a separate living room and bedroom space, finely finished bathroom, and a small kitchenette with a refrigerator, coffee maker, and microwave. With all the amenities a traveler could ask for, the spacious suites at this hotel make for luxurious accommodations.

The SpringHill Suites in Baltimore’s Downtown/Inner Harbor location offers freshly made breakfast daily. A large spread of traditional American food is laid out in the oversized lobby. Guests at the SpringHill Suites can start their day with an array of bagels, fruit filled muffins, eggs, and sausage. A variety of yogurt, cereal, and donuts are also available.

A waffle maker is on hand for those who want to prepare warm waffles, and a juice and coffee station helps kick off the day to a fresh start. Complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are available in the lobby all day long as well. Along with a business center, fitness room, and a unique meeting room located within an old banking vault, the SpringHill Suite’s location and charm make it a special place to rest while in Baltimore.

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About the author

Sarah Dayan
I'm a Brooklyn native with a strong love for New York City, traveling, photography, writing, and music. I have my Bachelors degree in psychology and communication, and my Masters degree in school counseling. Through my writing, I want to share all my fun experiences in New York City.

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