When I got a chance to cover another city in the United States for this week's $10 series, I knew that I'd like to prioritize a city in the DMV area since I already covered Washington, D.C and Alexandria, VA some time ago.
The only state that I haven't covered yet in the series is Maryland, so I'm so excited to finally have one for the series this week. Today, thanks to Terri of Female Solo Trek, we are going to talk about what you could do in Baltimore, MD, for $10 USD!
So, what could you get in Baltimore within the budget? Read more for the deets!
Unleash your inner artist would be my top travel tip when visiting Baltimore, Maryland. This city is famous for its concentration of state and private art museums. You don't have to pay a cent to visit if you know about the special free admission days.
Did you know?
The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum was the first wax museum of African-American history throughout the country.
Signing up for free art workshop at various museums.
I recommend signing up for the Baltimore Museum of Art's free hands-on workshops, interactive gallery tours, and family activities on Sundays. Pretend you are Monet and bring your pastels or watercolor pens to sketch the BMA's fabulous outdoor Sculpture Gardens.
Turn yourself into a student by registering for drop-in art classes on Saturdays and Sundays at the Walters Art Museum. Although programs, tours, and events are on hold at the Walters due to the pandemic, the museum looks forward to resuming its programming.
Fells Point in Baltimore, Maryland.
In the meantime, Walters offers a Virtual Museum with new digital resources for all ages. If you are looking for a quick art-making activity, you can attend the Walters' weekly video series. It is led by a museum educator. There is an object-looking activity and a demo to help students.
You can also put your art supplies to good use by sketching the outdoor sculptures at the American Visionary Art Museum. Art, science, philosophy, humor and social justice and betterment are key themes for AVAM's exhibits.
Visit the oldest metropolitan church in the USA.
If you prefer Renaissance paintings, visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A top Baltimore destination, the Basilica is the nation's oldest metropolitan church. Every year, more than 100,000 visit.
Have a picnic lunch and enjoy the best out of the city.
And if you prefer to be entertained rather than create art, you can attend free musical performances at the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Since you didn't need to pull one dollar out of your wallet to see paintings, explore gardens and listen to music, why not treat yourself to lunch at the park?
Shop for a complete picnic lunch at the Lexington Market. There are great deals on fresh fruit, veggies & bread. Or you can enjoy a Chai Tea and a muffin for your own self-styled “Baltimore Tea” at a Starbucks—all for under $10.
Pirate boat seen around the Inner Harbor, Baltimore.
Join the free bus tour around Baltimore.
End your visit with a free bus tour. That's right, the Charm City Circulator offers free passage on its fleet of 24 buses shuttles.
They travel four routes in the central business district of Baltimore City. The Green Route which runs from City Hall to historic Fells Point is a perfect way to end your visit at the harbor. Buy a soda and sit on a bench to watch the sailboats. Or skip your picnic lunch and splurge on a Natty Boh, Baltimore's beloved beer, at a trendy bar.
(Note: Many Baltimore museum programs are on hold in winter 2021 due to COVID-19. Consult the museums's website on reopening details.)
Contributor: Terri of Female Solo Trek
Terri is a travel blogger from Washington, DC. This blog is for mature women who want to travel solo but are afraid to risk it. Terri's travels take her to all five continents so you can find the destination that fits you even if it is just being an armchair virtual participant.
