Baltimore is known for its strong industrial manufacturing history, having the oldest public market system in America, and being the birthplace of the National Anthem.
Maryland’s most populous city, Baltimore is famous for its industrial history and rich cultural heritage showcased in its unique cuisines and diverse ethnicity. The city boasts so many attractions and sights that contribute to some fun facts about Maryland.
What Is Baltimore Known For?
Baltimore is known for its strong industrial and manufacturing history, having the oldest public market system in America, and being home to some of the nation’s most prestigious universities and hospitals.
It is the origin place of the United States’ national anthem. There are many other noteworthy things like the Orioles, the Ravens, and the National Aquarium in the state.
Baltimore is also known for being the filming location of The Wire and for playing a vital role during the Civil Rights Movement.
History, Culture, And Traditions
Baltimore Hon
One of the most iconic cultures Baltimore is famous for is the ‘Baltimore Hon’, a stereotype of the lifestyle and mannerisms of working-class women from the city. The term ‘Hon’ is an endearing and respectful term which the women in the city are addressed with.
The Baltimore Hon is ingrained in many parts of the city’s culture including its restaurants, bars, and festivals.
One of the biggest festivals in Baltimore, HonFest celebrates Baltimore Hon. During this annual event, women style beehive hair, wear cat-eye glasses, and kitschy clothes. This event attracts thousands of visitors from around the country to the city.
Preakness Stakes
A major national event Baltimore is known for hosting is the Preakness Stakes, a thoroughbred horse race that is part of the Triple Crown series.
This event was inaugurated in 1873 and is held on Armed Forces Day, at the Pimlico Race Course. It is the second jewel of the three races in the Triple Crown series.
This is one of the most important races in the American horse racing calendar. It attracts hordes of visiting spectators who also use the opportunity to explore the attractions and sights in Baltimore. If you happen to be in the city in May, be sure to join the crowd at Pimlico to enjoy the thrilling event.
African American History
Baltimore is famous for its rich African American culture and history. The city is associated with multiple black movements and people that have defined the course of African Americans in the US.
Baltimore served as home to famous figures such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman. It was also an important location for the Civil Rights Movement of the 20th century.
If you are interested in learning about African Americans’ history and contributions to the city, there are numerous museums and cultural institutions dedicated to showcasing these key events.
Chesapeake Bay Cuisine
Baltimore’s unique cuisine is heavily influenced by the Chesapeake Bay and its variety of seafood. From oysters to crab cakes, steamed blue crabs, and many other dishes, Baltimore’s abundant seafood is one of its best attractions.
Waterfront local restaurants are readily available to serve you the best, tastiest dishes, and there are seafood markets where you can get a wide range of fresh seafood to garnish your favorite dish with.
Along Chesapeake Bay, you will also find some of the best beaches in Maryland. Spend a day soaking in the sun and indulge in some delicious seafood treats after.
The Baltimore Harbor
One of the most significant parts of Baltimore’s history is the Baltimore Harbor. Established in the 18th century, the harbor has served as a hub of commerce, transportation, and industry, contributing greatly to the city’s economy.
Today, the harbor is a sightseeing hub that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Baltimore, including the Maryland Science Center and the National Aquarium.
Some of the trendiest bars and eateries are stretched along the harbor. You can also catch stunning views of the city from The Top of the World Observation Level. This scenic harbor is the meeting point of the city’s commercial history and its modern vibrancy.
One of the best things to do in Baltimore Harbor is to, of course, to take advantage of the breathtaking views and go on a sunset sailing cruise!
The Wire
Baltimore is famous for being where the highly-rated HBO show, The Wire was set and produced.
The Wire aired from 2002 to 2006, producing 5 seasons consisting of 60 episodes in total. The critically acclaimed show is considered one of the greatest crime drama TV series of all time. The show has helped in making Baltimore a globally known city.
One of the star actors, Lance Reddick happens to also come from Baltimore.
Areas And Districts
Fells Point
Fells Point is a 250-year-old neighborhood situated along the north shore of the Baltimore Harbor. It is a culturally diverse place, comprising immigrant European populations which have influenced the culture and traditions in Fells Point.
The neighborhood is a prime destination for visitors seeking to hop to fine restaurants and hip bars, experience the live music scene, and shop at the thronged marketplace. All these attractions are lined along the cobblestone streets on the harbor and main square.
Whether it is night or day, visitors can enjoy this historic and pleasant neighborhood to the fullest. Due to its proximity to Chesapeake Bay, this is one of the optimal places to do a history and food tour to really take advantage of the best of Baltimore.
Hampden
Another neighborhood Baltimore is famous for is Hampden, a quirky community that used to be home to local factory workers.
Years after it was annexed to Baltimore city, Hampden has become one of the loveliest tourist centers in Baltimore. The row houses have become a stretch of trendy shops, restaurants, and bars. Certainly a welcomed evolution for both locals and travelers.
Hampden hosts two of the most famous festivals in Baltimore: HonFest, a celebration of the Baltimore lifestyle; and Hampdenfest, an opportunity to enjoy Baltimore’s unique music and check out the art the city has to offer.
Canton
This historic waterfront neighborhood in Baltimore is known for being an all-rounder, from its family-friendliness to the urban lifestyle, and pulsating social scene.
Canton is home to some prominent historic landmarks Baltimore is famous for, such as the Canton Historic District, O’Donnell Square, and Patterson Park. Visitors can enjoy the fun at the waterfront or wander the street in between early 20th-century 3-story row houses.
If you are thinking of settling in Baltimore, Canton is a great choice to look at.
Architecture And Landmarks
Fort McHenry Monument And Historic Shrine
Built in 1798, Fort McHenry served as a defense of the Port of Baltimore from enemy attacks.
It was particularly famous for its crucial role in the War of 1812, where the Americans successfully warded off an invasion of the British navy at Baltimore Harbor. During the British attack, the pentagonal fortress endured multiple bombardments from British rockets and guns.
The fort was then used by the U.S. Armed Forces through World War I and by the Coast Guard in World War II.
It is not only a significant landmark in Maryland but also an important historic place to the entire nation because it was where the U.S. national anthem “The Star-Spangled Banner” was composed.
Baltimore Museum of Art
The Baltimore Museum of Art is a 210,000-square-foot building that houses over 95,000 objects. The attraction is located along Art Museum Drive, imposing with its neoclassical architectural style.
The building is home to several collections by notable artists from around the world, such as Henri. Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and many more.
One of the most notable collections in the museum is the Cone Collection, donated to the museum by sisters Claribel and Etta Cone. This collection includes more than 1,000 works by Henri Matisse.
Other highlights include galleries showcasing art collections from Africa, as well as a range of artworks by contemporary artists. This is an impressive landmark Baltimore is known for and a must-visit for art lovers.
National Aquarium
This family-friendly landmark is a favorite tourist destination in Baltimore. It draws over 1.5 million visitors every year, which makes it the largest tourist attraction the state of Maryland is known for.
The National Aquarium is home to more than 17,000 specimens from over 750 species. Visitors can check out the sea life and explore some impressive, award-winning exhibits, including the Atlantic coral Reef, Amazon Rain Forest, and Australia: Wild Extremes.
There is also a 4D Immersion Theater in the aquarium, where children can have an up-close interface with the sea animals. It’s an incredibly fun place for families.
Sports Teams In Baltimore
Baltimore Orioles
One of the most prominent sports franchises Baltimore is famous for is none other than the Baltimore Orioles. The Orioles are a baseball team that competes in Major League Baseball(MLB).
Originally founded as the Milwaukee Brewers, the franchise changed its name to Baltimore Orioles in 1954, which was in honor of the official state bird of Maryland.
The Orioles have won a total of nine division titles, seven Pennants, and three World Series. And definitely counting…
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens franchise was established in 1996 and has since competed in the National Football League(NFL). The team plays its home games at the M&T Bank Stadium.
Although the franchise is only more than two decades years old, it has become the most popular sports team in Maryland, thanks to its inspiring success in the league.
The Ravens have won at least two Super Bowls, two conference championships, and six division championships. This haul has pulled lots of Baltimoreons into the fanbase.
Famous People From Baltimore
Michael Phelps
Former competitive swimmer, Michael Phelps is one of the most famous people from Baltimore. Phelps holds the record as the most decorated Olympian of all time.
Michael was born in Baltimore and attended both middle and high school in the city. He began swim training at age 11, and at 15, he made his first appearance at the Olympics. While he did not win a medal in his maiden outing, Phelps went on to win a total of 28 Olympic medals, 23 of which were gold.
Babe Ruth
One of the greatest pitchers in the history of baseball, Babe Ruth was born and brought up in Pigtown, Baltimore.
Ruth began playing in Major League Baseball at the age of 19, debuting for the Boston Red Sox. Five years later, Ruth joined the New York Yankees, where he achieved his greatest fame and success as a professional player.
Ruth is widely considered the greatest baseball player of all time, with many individual and collective honors to back this. He has one MVP award, seven World Series titles, and many other notable awards.
Ruth is also one of the five inaugural members of the Baseball Hall of Fame. He is arguably the greatest sportsperson Baltimore is known for.
Anna Faris
Actress Anna Faris was born in Baltimore and lived in the city until she was six when her family moved to Washington.
Anna is known for her comedic roles and gained global acclaim for her starring role in Scary Movie, a film series that premiered in 2000. Her excellent acting has earned her numerous nominations and awards.
Famous Food In Baltimore
Maryland Blue Crabs
Maryland Blue Crabs is a famous Baltimore food that will leave your taste buds for more, once you try it.
This sumptuous seafood dish consists of steamed blue crabs, seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, a powerful blend of spices that is a staple of Maryland cuisine.
The food can be bought at local seafood restaurants or you can get the crabs at seafood markets to cook at home. This is a must-try dish when visiting Baltimore.
Berger Cookies
Berger Cookies is one of the most iconic foods Baltimore is famous for. You can’t separate one from the other. This shortbread cookie was created in 1835 by German immigrant brothers George and Henry Berger.
The cookie is characterized by its fudgy chocolate icing on a soft vanilla cookie. Since its invention, the recipe has yet to change significantly, which is one of the reasons it is still in high demand in Baltimore.
Pit Beef
Another popular dish that is seasoned with the staple Old Bay Seasoning, amongst other blends of spices, is the Pit Beef. Pit Beef is a sliced beef that is cooked with charcoal.
The cooked beef is served on a kaiser roll and goes well with horseradish sauce. The aroma of the Old Bay seasoned is enough to compel you to have a bite.
Be sure to indulge in some of the best foods in Maryland when you visit!
Discovering More Things Baltimore Is Known For
The city’s history and culture are at the core of Maryland. From their importance in U.S. history, the thriving sports scene, and delicious food, it’s no wonder that Baltimore is known for so many amazing things
Whether you’re a sports fan or an avid seafood lover, there are plenty of reasons why Baltimore should be on your list of places to visit. Plan a trip to experience all the state has to offer, and you are bound to discover more things that Baltimore is famous for.
