Museums and Historical Sites in Baltimore, MD

Baltimore, MD, is a city rich in history and culture, making it an exciting destination for military servicemen and women, government travelers, corporate visitors, and their families. Whether you’re on a brief stay or a longer assignment, the city's museums and historical sites offer not only a break from work but also a chance to connect with Baltimore's storied past. From art and literature to industry and science, Baltimore has something for every type of traveler.

The Walters Art Museum

The Walters Art Museum offers a fascinating journey through art history, with collections spanning more than 7,000 years. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to stunning 19th-century European paintings, this museum is a favorite for art enthusiasts. It’s also an ideal stop for military personnel and government travelers who might want a moment of peace and inspiration. The museum is located in the charming Mount Vernon Cultural District, making it an accessible, enriching experience.

  • Located in the Mount Vernon Cultural District

  • Features ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art

  • Regularly hosts family-friendly, interactive exhibits

  • Offers free admission year-round

After enjoying the vast collections of The Walters Art Museum, visitors can easily transition to one of Baltimore’s most iconic historical sites, Fort McHenry.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Fort McHenry stands as a proud symbol of American resilience, and it was here that the defense of Baltimore during the War of 1812 inspired Francis Scott Key to pen "The Star-Spangled Banner." Military and history enthusiasts will find Fort McHenry particularly compelling, with guided tours, historical reenactments, and immersive exhibits. The site not only provides a deep dive into the War of 1812 but also offers a family-friendly experience with educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages.

  • Key historical site tied to the War of 1812

  • Home of "The Star-Spangled Banner"

  • Offers guided tours and historical reenactments

  • Family-friendly with educational exhibits

From Fort McHenry’s patriotic history, visitors can explore Baltimore’s industrial might at the Baltimore Museum of Industry.

Baltimore Museum of Industry

If you’re interested in how cities like Baltimore helped shape American industry, the Baltimore Museum of Industry is a must-visit. Housed in a former cannery, this museum brings Baltimore's industrial past to life, highlighting its crucial role in manufacturing, shipping, and steel production. Corporate travelers will appreciate the insights into the city’s economic history, while families can engage with interactive exhibits about trades like printing and steelmaking.

  • Showcases Baltimore’s industrial past

  • Situated in a former cannery building on the waterfront

  • Features hands-on exhibits about trades like printing and steelmaking

  • A great option for corporate travelers and history buffs

From industry to infrastructure, the B&O Railroad Museum offers a unique look into the nation's first railroad company.

B&O Railroad Museum

The B&O Railroad Museum celebrates the history of the first commercial railroad in the United States, making it a unique attraction for those fascinated by infrastructure and technology. The museum boasts a remarkable collection of 19th-century locomotives, interactive exhibits, and a train ride experience that delights visitors of all ages. Government and corporate travelers, especially those with an interest in infrastructure, will find this museum both educational and entertaining.

  • Largest collection of 19th-century locomotives in the U.S.

  • Focuses on the history of American railroads

  • Offers train rides for visitors

  • Ideal for families, government, and corporate travelers

For literary fans, the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum offers a more intimate historical experience.

The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum

The Edgar Allan Poe House offers a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most iconic literary figures. Nestled in the heart of Baltimore, this small museum preserves Poe's former home and provides a personal look into his troubled yet creative life. It’s a must-visit for literature fans and anyone interested in the darker corners of American history. The museum is small but intimate, offering visitors a quiet, reflective experience.

  • Preserves the history of Poe's time in Baltimore

  • Small museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits on Poe’s life

  • Located in Poe’s former home

  • Perfect for literary fans and those seeking a quieter, offbeat attraction

Next, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum offers an in-depth look at African American history in Maryland.

The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture

The Reginald F. Lewis Museum is dedicated to telling the stories of African Americans in Maryland, from the colonial era to today. Military and government travelers will gain a deeper appreciation for Maryland’s cultural diversity and historical significance. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including rotating displays and permanent collections, all designed to shed light on the rich contributions of African Americans throughout history.

  • Focuses on the history of African Americans in Maryland

  • Features rotating exhibits and permanent collections

  • Family-friendly with educational programming

  • Conveniently located in downtown Baltimore

Finally, the Maryland Science Center offers an educational experience for all ages, especially for families traveling with children.

Maryland Science Center

For those interested in science and technology, the Maryland Science Center is a great option. With interactive exhibits on space, physics, and biology, it’s the perfect spot for families, corporate travelers, and science enthusiasts. Located on the scenic Inner Harbor, the Science Center also features an IMAX theater and a planetarium, making it a well-rounded educational experience for both kids and adults.

  • Interactive exhibits about space, physics, and biology

  • Features an IMAX theater and planetarium

  • Ideal for families, corporate travelers, and science enthusiasts

  • Located on the scenic Inner Harbor

Museums in Baltimore, MD: Your Next Visit

Baltimore’s museums and historical sites offer something for everyone, whether you’re traveling for military duty, government work, or corporate business. From the art collections at The Walters Art Museum to the national pride at Fort McHenry, these attractions enrich any visit to the city. Make your stay even more enjoyable by finding comfortable accommodations. 

Click here to view furnished apartments for rent for government travelers, corporate and film housing, or emergency housing, ensuring your stay in Baltimore is as enriching as your museum experience.

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