Baltimore is a city marked by its rich historical background, diverse cultures, culinary hospitality and an indispensible political heritage. Located on the western coast of the Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore has always been the hub of maritime trading. Though often considered as the neglected child of the East Coast, as compared to New York City and Washington DC, Baltimore has a lot to offer to those who wish to explore it for its possibilities.

The heart of Baltimore lies in its Inner Harbor. Though it has been around since the 1600s, the recent cultural revival has morphed it into one of the most coveted tourist destination. 1 To get a quick overview of the experience the Inner Harbor Baltimore has to offer, the most viable option would be to "Ride the Ducks" or take the Sea port Taxi. The "Ride the Ducks" is a vehicle/boat that takes you on an hour and a half long tour along the Inner Harbor, showing most of the historical sites of Baltimore namely Camden Yards, Westminster Hall, where the graves of the founding fathers of the city of Baltimore are situated, Carroll Mansion and the Shot Tower. The driver doubles as a tour guide as well and points out the highlights of the historic city as well as gives a brief overview of the heritage of the place. Though at $25 it is pricier than most of the attractions, this tour is a must if there is a time constraint.

The Sea Port Taxi is the other option if time limitation or costs are a concern. Initially serving as a means of transporting residents, this water taxi has quickly become a major tourist attraction with stops on tourist spots such as the major venues of Inner Harbor, Fells Point with its Maritime Museum and the Harbor Point, and Canton, with the Chesapeake Wine Company and the Water Front Park. The taxi can be ridden with a flat daily charge of just $5 and tourists can make as many stops as they like.

However, if a bird's eye tour catches your fancy, the best bet would be the Top of the World Observatory Level and Museum located at the 28th at the World Trade Center at Baltimore. The building is shaped like a pentagon, so a five sided panoramic view of the city can be seen. The site also offers audio visual tours of the various points of interests, namely the harbor, the aquarium, Fells Point, Federal Hill and beyond. Binoculars are located, albeit for a charge, at different locations along the windows. The ticket costs a mere $5 and the location also includes a restaurant with a breath taking view, a gift shop and a museum.

Probably the most crowd pleasing attraction is The National Aquarium. The aquarium houses more than 10,500 specimens of at least 560 species.2 The aquarium is a must-see for all nature lovers. With live sharks and rays floating by and colossal sections of the biodiversity of life in Australia or the Amazon jungle or the Arctic Circle, this experience is both educational and awe-inspiring. For young and old alike, the dolphin show and the four dimensional theatre experience holds special charm.

Another point of interest would be the National Historic Seaport of Baltimore. This seaport has had its fare share of maritime exposure over the last three hundred years. It contains the USS Constellation which is the only vessel left from the civil war, Federal Hill, Fort McHenry and Fells Point, Knoll Lighthouse and many more, as points of interest.

The Maryland Science Center is also a popular spot. With exhibits on Physics, Astronomy and Biology, the Center also includes a 3D IMAX theatre. The theatre also holds other 3D movies from time to time.

Conversely if the aim is to sit back and relax while enjoying the sights, the best option would be to cruise along the Inner Harbor in one of the many cruises, the most popular being the Lady Baltimore, Bay Lady and Prince Charming. The cruises offer both local and international cuisines along with spectacular views. On special holidays, namely Christmas and the fourth of July, the ships are beautifully decked and offer more variation in terms of the entertainment provided.

On the other hand, if you happen to be a shopaholic, Harbor East is the place to go. Home to fine dining, hotels and the most expensive boutiques, this area includes Grille 700 and Victor's Café which are not to be missed. However, to get the feel of a small town, the Lexington Market should be visited. Located in downtown Baltimore, this 200 years market boasts of selling fresh produce by small vendors. The aroma, the colors and the noises make this market a very tourist attracting venue. The marketplace even has a stage where local events are held and depending on the time of the year, one can even see circus elephants on a stroll, or witness a crab race or enjoy an ice cream festival. However, if large crowds are to be avoided, it is advised to plan your visit accordingly.

The downtown of Baltimore also houses some of the most interesting museums. The Jewish Museum of Maryland contains items which encompass the Jewish lifestyle in Baltimore. The museum rotates its exhibits making it a perennially fresh tourist spot. It also contains a book store and a gift shop. Furthermore, if you wish to explore more regarding the Jewish memorabilia, the Holocaust Memorial may also interest you. Built in the 1980s, and depicting boxcars used to transport Jews, it serves as a reminder to the world of the horrors of the Holocaust. The house of the famous writer Edgar Allen Poe, also serves as a museum. Located in downtown Baltimore, it is open to exhibit and consists of items used by the author in his lifetime. Mother Seton House is also a very important structure in American history as the owner of the house was the first American woman to be raised to the status of sainthood. After her death, the house has been labeled as a historical site and is open to public on weekends through a prior appointment. Also listed as historical site, is the Emerson Bromo Seltzer tower. Built by Captain Isaac Emerson in 19113, it is based on the tower of Palazzo Vecchio in Italy. The initial design had a lighted blue bottle revolving on the top which was later removed in 1936. The four sides of the building show huge clocks at the very top of the building. The Westminster Hall, also in down town Baltimore should not be omitted as it is the resting abode of the most noted men in the history of Baltimore, namely the founding fathers, the first four mayors as well as Edgar Allan Poe.

For the sports fan, the Oriole Park and The Babe Ruth Birth Place and Museum, both located in downtown Baltimore, are an unbeatable experience. The Oriole Park is a beautiful stadium with a lovely view. Close to the Inner Harbor and other downtown attractions, it boasts to be one of pioneers of the modern day baseball stadiums. Besides watching a game, tourists can also tour the stadium on weekdays where the stadium is free to learn about the history of the making of the stadium. The stadium also has a high standard restaurant in comparison to the others which only have hotdogs and beer to offer. Needless to say, these items are also available if your preference lies in the latter. The Babe Ruth Museum is housed near the stadium and for a mere $6 for adults, gives the tourists and fans a peek in the life of Baba Ruth before he became a Yankee. Also lying adjacent to the Oriole Park, near the Hamburg Street station, is the M&T Bank Stadium. A must see for football fans, this stadium is the latest as well as the most modern of the stadiums in the United States. Besides hosting national level football games, it also hosts occasional games of lacrosse, high school and college level football matches.

Besides the downtown, Baltimore has other neighborhoods which are dotted with both cultural and historical spots. Mount Vernon for example is just one of them. Lying close to the downtown, Mount Vernon owes its popularity to the Saint Alphonsus Church, The Baltimore Basilica, the Washington Monument and the Johns Hopkins Peabody Institute. Known for its Gothic architecture, the Saint Alphonsus Church is a historical landmark where the Blessed George Matulaitis and St. John Neumann are said to have prayed. Built by the famous Robert Cary Long, it took three years to build, by 1845, and the tower another ten. With high ceilings and a shimmery interior, the church is an architectural marvel. Most of the windows still possess the original stained glass artwork and adds to the tranquility of the atmosphere.

However, much older than the Alphonsus Church is the Baltimore Basilica. Built by Benjamin Latrobe, Its construction took fifteen years, from 1806 to 1821. The cathedral has been modeled on ancient Greek temples with the six pillars defining the architecture. Still maintained to most of its original glory, the Basilica also contains ornately stained glass windows. Most importantly, it is the oldest catholic cathedral in the United States.

The tallest and the most visible structure at Mount Vernon would be the Washington Monument. The marble Statue of George Washington stands tall on a 178 feet marble column. The column comprises about 230 steps, which over a breath taking view of the area, but should be attempted by only those who are not acrophobic. For those who might not be brave enough to climb, the base of the column also contains a museum.

Regarded as the musical voice of Baltimore, the Peabody Institute is also situated at Mount Vernon. Founded in 1857 by George Peabody, it consists of the most lavish concert halls where musicians from all over the world come to perform. Now a part of the Johns Hopkins University, this conservatory offers music lessons to those who can afford. However the students, teachers and various performers offer free concerts from time to time.

The neighborhood of Fells Point is another historic location that is a must see. It houses the famous Maritime Museum, which consists of old naval artifacts, the Harbor point, with its ice skating rink, among other attractions, and the Baltimore American Indian Center which is the hub of Native American Culture. For art lovers, The Art Gallery of Fells Point as well as the Angeline's Art Gallery is also present. The former displays local art, where most of the items are for sale. The later, however, is more of a gift shop with items such as pieces of local arts as well as trinkets and baubles can be found there. It is an excellent place to go to shop for souvenirs. For the sailors at heart, cruises are available. The Ketch Pintita, offers night sailing and breakfast in the morning on the deck. Sailing courses are also available. The Catawampus II also offers sailing lessons as well as private charted cruises. These are ideal for a small party or a private wedding.

Other points of interest could be the Federal Hill with Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, the Federal Hill Park and the Riverside Park. Marking a very historic chapter in the history of the United States, this is a popular tourist spot.

Besides those mentioned, the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the Conservatory at Druid Hill Park, the Chesapeake Wine Company, the Canton Water Front Park, the Johns Hopkins University, the Baltimore Museum of Art and Little Italy with its Italian restaurants, are some of the other must visit spots. Besides, Baltimore is dotted with a number of eateries. Famous for its Blue Crabs, Baltimore's seafood can be enjoyed on various locations along the inner harbor and the down town area. Exotic cuisines like Ethiopian, Indian, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish and Italian are also available.

Baltimore has a rich history that dates back to the time of the conception of the United States. Its historical and cultural neighborhoods, new high rise hotels, shopping venues, numerous restaurants, bars and pubs make it attractive to every style and taste. The experience of Baltimore cannot be summed up in a few words, or penned down on a page. It has to be experienced firsthand, and over and over again, to get the real understanding of how great a city this is.

Best Reason to Visit - The Boardwalk

Leading off this best of list is by far Ocean City's number one attraction, apart from the ocean. There is simply nothing more Ocean City than the Boardwalk. While it might not be the biggest in the world, at two and a half miles in length, it is impressive regardless. On the average night, the Boardwalk is the center of the people-watching universe. For the young at heart, stroll into an arcade for some ski ball, or jump into the car of a roller coaster. It seems like every third storefront is a restaurant, most serving fresh seafood. On top of all of that, add souvenir shops, slat water taffy shops, kite shops, and almost anything else you could imagine. In a simple statement, the Boardwalk has just about everything.

The history of the Boardwalk stretches back over 100 years. It came into being around 1902, when a group of hotel owners decided that it would be a good idea to make everything located along the beach more accessible to their guests. They decided that the best way to do this was to stretch out a wooden walkway between their hotels. At night, the then temporary Boardwalk was taken up and stored on the front porches of the hotels, only to be stretched back out the next morning. The first permanent Boardwalk came to Ocean City in 1910, but it only stretched about five blocks. Over time, the community extended the boards to its current length, beginning at the inlet, and stretching up to 27th Street.

Access to the boards could not be simpler, with a large parking lot at the base near the inlet. For all of the fun the Boardwalk has to offer, I suggest staying at one of the many hotels that are located there. That way, you are only ever steps away from entertainment.

Best Place to Scream Your Head Off - Trimper's Rides and Amusements

No self-respecting boardwalk is complete without a few thrill rides, and Ocean City is no exception. Here, Trimper's Rides and Amusements fills this roll. The business has been family owned and operated since its inception over 100 years ago. The current vice president and manager, Granville Trimper, is the grandson of the founders.

It all began in 1902, when the Trimper family purchased a carousel, which is still in operation today. Originally powered by steam, the now electric merry-go-round is one of the oldest still in operation in the entire United States. Not just the home of horses, the carousel also has a dog, cat, lion, deer, goat, dragon, and pig, just to name a few.

Over the years, the park has grown to over forty rides from which to choose. Trimper's has something for everyone. If you are up for something a little more exciting than a carousel, try The Tidal Wave, their most popular roller coaster.

Best Breakfast - The Dough Roller

Bill Gibbs, founder of The Dough Roller, grew up with the dream of converting the porch of the Breakers Hotel into a restaurant. Almost twenty years after he came up with the idea, his family purchased the site and did just that, establishing what has become my favorite place to eat breakfast in Ocean City.

What can you have for breakfast? Pancakes are a good choice, but the Roller also has some fantastic omelets, as well. Alternatively, you could have the pancakes. The have other traditional breakfast items as well, but, frankly, the pancakes and omelets are so great that I have never actually tried any of the other items. Based on the high quality pancakes and omelets, I am sure anything you pick will be great.

While there are six locations in and around Ocean City, I highly recommend the 3rd Street and Boardwalk location. Get there early. Where else can you watch the waves roll in while you eat your breakfast?

Best Lunch - Sail Loft Deck Bar

Not far from breakfast is lunch, and not far from The Dough Roller is the Sail Loft Deck Bar. Tucked between 2nd and 3rd streets on the boardwalk, this is a great place to drop into, all gross and sweaty from the beach, and no one will care. The Sail Loft Deck Bar, which itself is the second level of Conner's Beach Cafe, offers a light fare of something for everyone, ranging from fried clam strips to garden burgers.

If you are a fan of seafood, this place has its share. Check out the soft shell crab sandwich or the crab cakes, both of which are fantastic. Also worth a try are the sweet potato fries, which are unlike anything I have ever had.

Plan ahead, and drop by their homepage before you begin your trip. There you will find a coupon for a half price appetizer or a free domestic beer. You can get a soft shell crab sandwich and a beer for less than $10. You bet.

Best Dinner - Shenanigan's Irish Pub and Grille

Maybe Ocean City, Maryland does not exactly scream “Irish pub,” but maybe it should. Shenanigan's Irish Pub and Grille has a slogan that they often put on their boardwalk sign: The only thing we overlook is the ocean. Having been there, I would have to agree.

If you cannot find something to eat at Shenanigan's, I feel sorry for you. Their menu is extensive, with creative appetizers like the Chesapeake Portabella, which is covered mozzarella, tomato, and jumbo lump crab. The main course includes steaks, seafood, pasta, bangers, and salads. Like any good boardwalk restaurant, feel free to sit outside.

Do you need another reason? It's an Irish Pub.

Best Tradition - Thrasher's French Fries

Now that we have had our fill of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it is just about time for a snack. They have been making Ocean City's best tradition at Thrasher's French Fries since 1929, and that is all they have been making. That's right; just fries.

Why does Thrasher's limit themselves to only fries? Well, frankly, they found something they were great at, and stuck with it for the last seventy odd years. The deep fried treats come in 16, 32, and 53-ounce cups to satisfy appetites of all sizes. Do not expect ketchup; these fries only come covered in vinegar and salt.

Best Place to Buy a Pastime - The Kite Loft

Just about every day that goes by, the people at The Kite Loft, located at 6th Street and the Boardwalk, put out a display of kites in front of their store. Inside, you can buy most any of the kites you see flying outside. If you are new to flying, you can start with a single line diamond kite, or if you want something with a few more moves, upgrade your choice to one of many sport kites in stock.

You can even walk out with a 21-foot lobster kite with an attitude. Just make sure you bring your wallet and 500-pound test line.

Best Day Trip - Assateague Island National Seashore

Best known for the throng of wild horses that call the island home, Assateague is just a short 15-minute drive away from the Ocean City Boardwalk. For all of the difference in scenery, it might as well be a world away. The sparsely populated beaches offer camping, biking, shell collecting, and a host of other activities. If you are feeling a little more adventurous than a bike ride, you can rent a canoe or kayak from the park offices.

Make sure you hunt up a few wild horses while you are there. You will not have any trouble finding them.

Best Recycled Building - The Ocean Gallery

Actually, "best" might not be the best word here. The Ocean Gallery is Ocean City's only recycled building, constructed using parts of 68 different buildings from all over the world. The building itself looks like a rummage sale going wrong, with little pieces of those 68 different buildings attached to the outside walls.

As eye catching as the building is, however, the real attraction is inside, where you will find posters, prints, and maybe even original work by owner Joseph KroArt. After you have your print, be sure to stop by the parking lot just outside to see the Batmobile. It is part of the spectacle, too.

Best Attraction - Ocean City Life-Saving Station

One afternoon, after you have swam all you care to swim, eaten all you care to eat, and done everything else your beach-going little heart desires, take a walk south on the boardwalk. When you get to where you thought the boardwalk ended, keep going. Stop when you find yourself outside the Ocean City Life-Saving Station. You are now standing outside the best attraction in Ocean City, Maryland.

Start outside with a fantastic free attraction, a 1210-pound tiger shark, which holds the record for largest fish caught off the coast of Maryland. Then go into the gift shop and get your tickets to the self-guided tour, family priced at $3 for adults and $1 for children under 12. For less than it probably cost you to park your car, you gain access to a building over one hundred years old, and all the exhibits included inside. Those exhibits, by the way, include an extensive history of the station, examples of the equipment used, an aquarium room, items recovered from shipwrecks, and a whole room on bathing suits through the years. My personal favorite contains a collection of sand from various beaches around the world.

Not bad for less than it cost to park your car.

That wraps up the Best of Ocean City. Grab your sunscreen, and I'll see you at the beach.