Welcome to Baltimore

Editorial & Photos by Steve Sherack 

With not much going on yet back at Pimlico's stakes barn as the GI Preakness S. field continues to assemble, what better way to spend an afternoon than in Baltimore's Inner Harbor? 

It didn't take long for me to feel like I was back at home. 

“What do you know about the New York Mets,” asked a passerby referring to my blue-and-orange t-shirt. 

Not missing a beat after a thunderstorm filled three-hour drive from the Jersey Shore, I quickly replied, “Well, I know that we just swept you guys in a two-game series last week.” 

Turns out my new friend was a native of Flushing, New York, and, like myself, also attended St. John's University in Queens. Small world. 

Back to the task at hand. M & S Grill is always a good place to begin. With plenty of waterfront outdoor seating–including a terrific view of the USS Constellation–it's a great spot to take in the lively surroundings of the beautiful Inner Harbor while also enjoying some classic American cuisine. Within a couple of minutes of settling in, you'll immediately spot plenty of business people, families, joggers, musicians, students, tourists, etc., all going about their days. Talk about an eclectic mix of people. 

With more than 17,000 aquatic animals–including dolphins and sharks–and plenty of eye-catching and informative exhibits, the National Aquarium is one of the more family friendly destinations on site. Admission is a bit steep–$34.95 for an adult ticket–but there is certainly more than enough to take in to get your money's worth. If you bring the kids, be sure to stop by the Living Seashore exhibit, where you can touch moon snails, jellyfish and more. I'll have to remember to bring along my soon-to-be 4-year-old nephew next time. 

Looking to do some sightseeing? There are plenty of opportunities to do so from either the water or from up above. 
Top of the World, located on the 27th floor of the World Trade Center Baltimore, boasts 360-degree panoramic views of the city skyline, harbor and more. A 9/11 Memorial–constructed with steel from the New York World Trade Center and limestone from the Pentagon–honors Marylanders who perished in the tragic terror attacks from 2001. It's really worth spending some time here before entering the world's tallest pentagonal building. 

Cruises on the Bay and Baltimore Spirit Cruises are another great way to explore the city, especially under these summer-like temperatures that have hit Central Maryland this week. A 45-minute cruise with recorded narration goes for $18. Water Taxis are also out in force for trips to the surrounding neighborhoods. Four-person paddle and electric boats, including the colorful Chessie Dragons, are also available for half-hour rentals. 

Any history buffs out there? The aforementioned USS Constellation–the only Civil War era vessel still afloat–as well as the USCGC Taney and the USS Torsk, are among the impressive collection of military vessels located within walking distance of each other at the Inner Harbor. Discounts are available if you decide to tour more than one of the historic ships. 

Don't worry if a pop-up shower surfaces, either. 

With plenty of umbrella-covered outdoor seating, Phillips Seafood (hard to miss with the massive 17-foot tall red lettering adorned in Baltimore's skyline), located right next to the Hard Rock Cafe Baltimore, is one of the more popular lunch/dinner destinations in town. With a menu consisting of award-winning crab cakes and a crispy calamari 
appetizer with a tasty sweet chili dipping sauce, you won't be disappointed if seafood is your thing. 

There's also plenty to do/see in the adjacent Pratt Street Dining and Shopping Pavilion, including Ripley's Believe It or Not!, if you need to take cover or even cool off on a steamy day. 

With visits to approximately half of the major league baseball stadiums under my belt, it's hard to find a more enjoyable place to take in a game than Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Within walking distance of the Inner Harbor, just follow the sea of orange and black to the stadium. Or in this case, the lone Mets fan ready to root on the home team before taking in the second jewel of the Triple Crown this weekend.