Free Things to Do in Baltimore

With so many things to see and do in Baltimore, it can be challenging to budget them all. Sometimes, it is nice to slow things down and enjoy one of the free activities or attractions. Baltimore is a diverse city with plenty of charm, so even the free things to do are worth adding to your Baltimore visit itinerary.

Inner Harbor

There is plenty to see and do along Baltimore's Inner Harbor promenade. Start by visiting the Sail Baltimore website to see what ships will be mooring in the harbor. These floating maritime museums are often free to board and explore. You will see old military, merchant, and sailing ships. Some date back to the Civil War. As you explore the harbor, you can see the Seven-Foot Lighthouse and cool off at the Walter Sondheim Fountain. This interactive fountain has 53 jets. Stop by the amphitheater during the warm months to enjoy a free concert or play. Several events take place at Inner Harbor throughout the year. These include the 4th of July fireworks, the August Wine & Food Festival, Fleet Week in October, Free Fall Baltimore, and the Christmas Village.

Baltimore Museum of Art

The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) has built an impressive art collection over the last 100 years. You can see it all for free. Today, the museum boasts an impressive collection of over 95,000 works. It has the largest collection of Henri Matisse's works in the world. The collection contains pieces from around the world dating back to 528 AD. There is also a continual rotation of guest exhibits. Outside the museum, there is an impressive garden home to 33 sculptures. There is a gift shop and restaurant located on the museum grounds.

Washington Monument

Visit Baltimore's Washington Monument and learn about America's first president, George Washington. It was the first of such monuments built in the US. It stands 178 feet tall and is made of white marble. Today, you can walk around the monument and take a self-guided tour with the displayed screens.

Baltimore Farmers' Market & Bazaar

Visit Baltimore's largest farmers' market to get a taste of the local culture. The market has 56 food vendors, 33 farms, and 39 artisans. You can browse shop stalls, try samples, and enjoy local street performers. A little of everything is sold at the market, including produce, artisan-prepared foods, body care, home goods, art, clothing, and accessories. The market is open every Sunday from 7 am to 12 pm.

Baltimore Basilica

As the first cathedral built in the United States, the Baltimore Basilica has stood since 1821. The basilica's interior has been carefully restored to reflect what it looked like when it was first built. However, look up, and you will see a new addition. The ceiling features elegant paintings from local artists.

The basilica is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 8 pm. However, this is a working parish; check the online services calendar before visiting. You do not need to buy tickets or make a reservation to attend one of the tours. While the tours are free, a $5 per person donation is requested.

Book your stay at Roost and explore Baltimore on a budget with these interesting free things to do.