The Ivy Hotel

Baltimore, also known as Baltimore City, is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Maryland. It is the 30th-most populous U.S. city with a population of 585,708 at the 2020 census and estimated at 569,997 in 2025, while the Baltimore metropolitan area at 2.86 million residents is the 22nd-largest metropolitan area in the nation. The city is also part of the Washington–Baltimore combined statistical area, which had a population of 9.97 million in 2020. Baltimore was designated as an independent city by the Constitution of Maryland in 1851. Though not located under the jurisdiction of any county in the state, it forms part of the Central Maryland region together with the surrounding county that shares its name.

As soon as you arrive in Baltimore, you will feel the city’s energy immediately. The city is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, such as the Inner Harbor and the National Aquarium. The Inner Harbor, the heart of Baltimore, is a hub of activity with plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. If you’re interested in learning about the city’s history, take a stroll to the nearby American Visionary Art Museum, which showcases innovative and unique art created by self-taught artists.

Baltimore is also renowned for its seafood, particularly the famous Maryland crab cakes. You can find this signature dish in almost every restaurant in the city, but for the best experience, we suggest heading to Faidley's Seafood, a local institution since 1886. The market is located in Lexington Market and offers a variety of fresh seafood options that will tantalize your taste buds.