Planning an escape to Baltimore this summer? You still have time to build your trip around Artscape, the largest free arts festival in the nation.
Scheduled for July 20-22 this year, Artscape brings together visual and performing artists, along with food, crafts and kids' activities. It averages 350,000 attendees each summer in Charm City. While you're there, check out the rest that Baltimore has to offer, from nightlife and history to sports and museums.
It’s more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from Raleigh to Baltimore in that time frame, and the prices aren't too shabby.
So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)
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Cheapest Baltimore flights
Currently, the cheapest flights between Raleigh and Baltimore are if you leave on July 19 and return from Maryland on July 22. Spirit Airlines currently has roundtrip tickets for $79.
Spirit Airlines also has tickets at that price point earlier in the week, if you can get away in time. If you fly out of Raleigh on July 17 and return from Baltimore on July 21, Spirit Airlines can get you there and back for $79 roundtrip.
Top Baltimore accommodations
Regarding where to stay, here are some of Baltimore’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.
The Hilton Baltimore (401 W. Pratt St.)
For an all-around top recommendation, consider The Hilton Baltimore. The hotel has a 4.4-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $135.
This downtown Baltimore hotel is located adjacent to Oriole Park at Camden Yards and very close to the USS Constellation, the Hippodrome Theatre and the M and T Bank Stadium. The hotel is directly connected to the Baltimore Convention Center via an indoor walkway.
The Baltimore Marriott Waterfront (700 Aliceanna St.)
If you're looking to treat yourself, try The Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, which has rooms for $179/night.
Set in the heart of Baltimore, this hotel is close to the Pier Six Concert Pavilion and the National Aquarium in Baltimore, as well as the American Visionary Art Museum. Additional attractions include the USS Constellation, the Fell's Point pub district and the shops at Harborplace.
The Home2 Suites by Hilton Baltimore Downtown (8 E. Pleasant St.)
If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, there's The Home2 Suites by Hilton Baltimore Downtown. The 4.4-star hotel has rooms for $71/night.
Featured Baltimore food and drink
Don't miss Baltimore's food scene, with plenty of popular spots to get your fill of local cuisine. Here are a few of the top-rated eateries from Skyscanner's listings.
The Food Market (1017 W. 36th St.)
If you're looking for a local favorite, head to The Food Market, which has an average of 4.8 stars out of five reviews on Skyscanner.
The Food Market's website says it specializes in "approachable, serious comfort food," with a menu offering small plates such as tacos and fried oysters and large plates of crab cakes, shrimp, duck and roast beef.
"Chef Chad's menu is to say the least stunning," wrote visitor Charles. "Service is great."
G&M Restaurant (804 N. Hammonds Ferry Road)
Another popular dining destination is G&M Restaurant, with 4.7 stars from 11 reviews.
G&M Restaurant features Greek and Italian cuisine and boasts of serving "Maryland's best crab cakes."
"The full-service bar has a decent selection of beer and cocktails, but most people are here for the crab cakes, day and night. Personally, I can't finish a single crab cake in one sitting, but there are plenty of strong-willed eaters who can take down two at once," wrote reviewer RAWarren.
Nick's Fish House (2600 Insulator Drive)
Also worth considering is Nick's Fish House.
Located on the water offering spectacular views, Nick’s Fish House and Grill has indoor and outdoor seating and serves steamed-to-order blue crabs, fresh sushi, grilled steaks and burgers, seafood, including jumbo lump crab cakes, and bountiful sandwiches.
"It’s right by the water, so the best part is the view. If the weather’s nice, try to get a table outside," wrote Laura.
Vaccaro's Italian Pastry Shop (222 Albemarle St.)
Finally, there's Vaccaro's Italian Pastry Shop.
"Vaccaro's is famous among both locals and visitors," wrote Daniel. "Located in the heart of Little Italy in Baltimore, patrons flood in to have lunch or pickup a tasty treat with a warm beverage. I recommend the Napoleon over the cannolis since they come in multiple vibrant sweet flavors."
Featured Baltimore attractions
Baltimore is also full of sites to visit and explore. Here are some popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.
Wockenfuss Candies (6831 Harford Road)
The top-rated visitor attraction in Baltimore, according to Skyscanner, is Wockenfuss Candies, which is one of the oldest candy makers in Baltimore.
Wockenfuss Candies marked a century in business in 2015. The family-owned business is now in its fifth generation of candy-making.
"Dark chocolate Oreos, dark chocolate pretzels, dark chocolate everything, " wrote visitor John. "I'm addicted, can't get enough!"
The National Aquarium (501 E. Pratt St.)
Then, there's The National Aquarium.
An entertaining dolphin show, “4-D Immersion” sensory theater, and (of course) lots and lots of marine creatures are just some of the things you can see at the National Aquarium.
"This by far was the best aquarium I've been to thus far," wrote visitor @_Mick_E. "Great for all ages and you can easily spend half a day here. There's a unique jelly fish exhibit as well as a dolphin show."
The American Visionary Art Museum (800 Key Highway)
Lastly, consider checking out The American Visionary Art Museum.
The American Visionary Art Museum is a unique, critically acclaimed art venue and a great stop for any visitor to Baltimore. The museum hosts shows organized by theme rather than by artist and strives to step out of the accepted art canon displayed at many American museums.
"This museum is a temple of unabashed creative energy unlike anywhere else in the state," wrote visitor Kelly. "This museum constantly showcases inventive and daring art from local and international artist alike."
This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
