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Free Things to do in Baltimore

Discover the hidden gems and unique charm of Baltimore with our guide to free things to do in Baltimore. Check out some cool local spots and exciting activities that won’t cost you a penny. Get ready for a fun, budget-friendly adventure!

Free Things to do in Baltimore

Whether you are on a budget or simply a lover of free things to do, there are plenty of activities in Baltimore, the biggest city in Maryland. Found just 40 miles northeast of Washington, D.C., ‘Charm City’ and its picturesque harbor offer a variety of experiences, including free stuff to do. Guests can explore parks, museums, libraries, and more, all without spending a dime. From wandering through beautiful green spaces to diving into the city’s rich history, there are endless free things to do in Baltimore that will keep you entertained.

Charm City Circulator

Free Things to do in Baltimore

Getting around Baltimore doesn’t have to cost you a dime—use Baltimore’s Charm City Circulator. This hybrid bus offers a free and convenient way to explore the city’s top attractions. With 4 routes and stops every 10-15 minutes, you’ll easily connect to popular spots and access Baltimore attractions free, rail, and subway lines. Plus, it’s a great way to discover free things to do in Baltimore and make the most of your visit without spending a cent. Whether you’re looking for stuff to do or simply want to enjoy the city’s charm, the Circulator has you covered.

 

See the Skyline from Federal Hill Park 

Free Things to do in Baltimore

Situated on the south side of the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill Park is one of the best free things to do in Baltimore. This beloved spot offers stunning views of Baltimore’s horizon, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic. With its recreation center and more than 10 acres of green space, it’s a great place to enjoy some of the free stuff to do in the city. Notably, this historic site is where 4,000 patriots gathered to celebrate Maryland’s approval of the U.S. Constitution in 1788. Whether you’re looking for stuff to do or simply want to soak in the city’s charm, Federal Hill Park is a must-visit.

American Visionary Art Museum

Free Things to do in Baltimore

In walking distance from Federal Hill Park is the American Visionary Art Museum, a standout among the Baltimore free things to do. The museum is renowned for its non-traditional art and features a glittering mosaic outside that you can admire without spending a dime. While it’s free to explore the outdoor art, it’s also worth paying to go inside to experience the museum’s unique collections and exhibits. Whether you’re interested in Baltimore free stuff to do or willing to invest in a memorable visit, the American Visionary Art Museum offers something special for every visitor.

 

Thinking of Visiting Other Major US Cities? Check out City Pass to save money.

Stop by the Edgar Allan Poe Memorial 

Free Things to do in Baltimore

Pay homage to one of Baltimore’s most celebrated inhabitants, writer and editor Edgar Allan Poe, by visiting his noteworthy gravesite and memorial inside Westminster Hall and Burying Ground. As a free thing to do in Baltimore, this historic site offers a glimpse into the life of the man who pioneered the detective fiction genre and was among the first to compose short stories in the nation. It’s a fascinating and educational stop, perfect for those looking for interesting stuff to do without spending a cent.

Explore the Baltimore Museum of Art 

Free Things to do in Baltimore

Guests to the Baltimore Museum of Art will be pleased to discover a treasure trove of Baltimore free museums. This museum boasts an impressive collection ranging from the nineteenth century to contemporary works, including the largest number of Henri Matisse pieces in the world, as well as works by Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and many others. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to stroll through the museum’s Sculpture Garden, which spans nearly three landscaped acres. The museum, open Wednesday through Sunday, offers free admission all year round, with the exception of certain events and special occasions. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy some of the best Baltimore free museums without spending a penny.

Explore Patterson Park

Free Things to do in Baltimore

Once an encampment for Union troops during the Civil War, Patterson Park is now a roughly 130-acre public playground, making it one of the top Baltimore free things to do. This expansive park features an ice-skating rink, swimming pool, lake, and basketball and tennis courts. Don’t miss the Victorian pagoda, which offers fantastic views of downtown and various neighborhoods and landmarks. Activities are available year-round at the “Best Backyard in Baltimore,” with some, like swimming and ice skating, requiring a small fee. It’s a great spot to enjoy a range of Baltimore free things to do while soaking up the local atmosphere.

Enjoy Creativity at the Maryland Institute College of Art 

Free Things to do in Baltimore

Scattered throughout the grounds of the Maryland Institute College of Art are several exhibitions featuring a diverse array of work by emerging student artists, as well as local, national, and global artists. This makes for some of the best Baltimore fun and free things to do in the city. With a mix of architectural styles ranging from neoclassical to modern, the entire campus can be viewed as a work of art itself. With around 100 shows held annually on the Bolton Hill campus, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy free stuff to do in Baltimore and appreciate creativity in various forms.

Get Back to Nature at Cylburn Arboretum 

Free Things to do in Baltimore

Spanning 207 acres of land, Cylburn Arboretum is a nature preserve right within city limits, offering one of the free things to do in Baltimore. This scenic spot features a Victorian chateau/mansion adorned with watercolor canvases and is surrounded by lush forests and trails. Visitors can explore a diverse range of local and non-local trees, plants, and blossoms, including notable flowers like beeches, hollies, Japanese maples, magnolias, and Maryland oaks. The arboretum is open to the public all year from Tuesday through Sunday and is free to enter (leashed dogs are welcome), making it a perfect place for enjoying some of the top stuff to do in Baltimore.

Browse at Antique Row 

Free Things to do in Baltimore

The oldest antique district in the U.S. is situated in Baltimore, along the 800 block of N. Howard Street and the 200 block of W. Read Street. Known as Antique Row since the 1840s, this area offers a delightful stroll through shops filled with English, American, and various other antiques, including decorations, artworks, rare books, and more. Wandering through these stores is one of the best free things to do in Baltimore. While exploring Antique Row is free, you’re likely to find a treasure worth spending money on amidst the collectibles.

Conclusion

Baltimore is not just a hub of history and waterfront wonders, but also a playground for those with a keen eye for free experiences. From wandering the eccentric streets of Fells Point to soaking in the artsy vibes at the Walters Art Museum, the city truly unfolds its magic without asking for a dime in return

Common Questions

All free museums and attractions to visit in Baltimore
  • Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Baltimore, MD. …
  • Walters Art Museum. Baltimore, MD. …
  • Rawlings Conservatory. …
  • Baltimore Museum of Art. …
  • Peale Museum. …
  • Irish Railroad Workers Museum. …
  • Maryland Art Place. …
  • Living History Museum.

There are plenty of things to do in Baltimore, thanks to its thriving arts culture, world-class sports teams, and unmatched museums. Most Americans wouldn’t consider Charm City (a common nickname) a major place to visit, but its spectacular waterfront views and rich history make this city a must to explore.

Baltimore is ranked 72 out of 273 cities across the US in terms of cost of living. The cost of living in Baltimore is 103.2% of the national average.

You’ll find that Baltimore’s public transportation system, run by the Maryland Transit Administration, offers an easy and affordable way to get around town.

The Smithsonian has the distinction of being the world’s largest museum complex, with more than a dozen free museums in Washington, DC, alone. Many of them are located around the National Mall, including the Air and Space Museum, the American History Museum and the Natural History Museum.

Maryland (United States) has a lot to offer for you culturally, even if you’re on a budget, including free museums, free activities and free attractions. 63 museums and attractions in Maryland can be visited without charge.

Spend a day in Baltimore and you’ll understand how its beautiful waterfront views, people and experiences earned it the name “Charm City.” Explore the wonders of the undersea world at the National Aquarium. Open your mind with out-of-this-world art at the American Visionary Arts Museum.

169.42 mi
 
The shortest distance (air line) between New-York and Baltimore is 169.42 mi (272.65 km). The shortest route between New-York and Baltimore is according to the route planner. The driving time is approx. .

Baltimore is the 14th most walkable large city in the US with 620,961 residents.

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