This independent city boasts stunning architecture spanning over two centuries, innovative cuisine and seemingly endless photo opportunities. Baltimore, pronounced "Balamer" by locals, is a small city with a huge personality.

"Charm City" is flanked by water, the Patapasco and Chesapeake Bay, which injects the beauty of Mother Nature into this quaint town. Rich in history, Baltimore was a key player in the American Revolution and is where the "Star Spangled Banner" was penned. It was even the capital of the United States for one brief year and is a must-see destination for history buffs. However, everyone quickly falls for the charms of Baltimore regardless of age or hobbies. A number of attractions, such as the Top of the World Observation Level and Babe Ruth Museum, are just steps away from Baltimore's convenient BEST WESTERN PLUS locations.
Quaint Neighborhoods
Maryland Zoo
Edgar Allen Poe House
Fort McHenry National Monument
Exploring the historical landmarks of Baltimore demands a tour of the Fort McHenry National Monument, where guests can "Hold the Fort!" in a game of survival and strategy, the Inn at Government House, which is an architectural marvel, and a night cruise on the Pride of Baltimore II, where guests experience a re-creation of an 1812 schooner privateer.
The Maryland Zoo is a favorite family destination where guests can view African lions, polar bears and rhinos.
American Visionary Art Museum features unique exhibitions like the anatomy of a runway show and storytelling, while the Edgar Allen Poe House offers a chance to explore the mysterious death and eerie works of the poet in his 1830's home.
For those of you wishing to "try your luck", visit the Maryland Live Casino!
Baltimore is a veritable smorgasbord of culinary delights where seafood reigns supreme. However, there's a lot more to the gastro scene than the crab cakes, although they're sublime.
Baltimore Magazine rated Charleston as the best restaurant in town in 2012. Renowned as a romantic hot spot with delectable prix fixe menus, the lobster curry soup is a staple.
The Black Olive is brilliant in its simplicity and features seriously fresh catches of the day that are filleted table-side.
Mr. Rain's Fun House is a place unlike any other, and children of all ages adore it. From the Pez dispensers at the entrance to the colorful murals, it's the perfect ambiance for creative dishes and ambitious desserts in cocktail glasses.
Baltimore has nine distinct neighborhoods, and each offers a different shopping experience. Guests are sure to find their perfect area for shopping, whether antiquing or going to the mall is more their style.
Arundel Mills and Prime Outlets are both fantastic places to get a great deal on clothes, gadgets, and household items.
Hampden is considered the shopping mecca for the "real" Baltimore and showcases small boutiques and up and coming designers. It's also a staple of a college neighborhood, and trendsetting styles are easy to find here.
No trip to Baltimore is complete without a stop at Broadway Market, an outdoor farmer's market-esque display that sells much more than fresh produce. This market has a long history and is a cornerstone of the city's culture.
Best Western makes it easy to customize your Baltimore vacation with unique tour packages. There are many tour packages to choose from including: touring the sights of the city by water or land, a photography workshop or cycling around the city.
After a day of site-seeing and great dining, you can rest and relax at one of the Best Western Baltimore hotels rooms, equipped with all the comforts of home. For Baltimore hotel room rates begin your search here. To read more about Baltimore vacation attractions visit the Official Site of the Maryland Office of Tourism.