Baltimore’s Best Outdoor Escapes: Your Guide to the Top 5 Activities
Baltimore, a city that is so rich in history and culture, also happens to boast some fantastic spots to get your nature fix, too. From splashing around in the harbor to wandering peaceful trails, there’s very, very much something for everyone. So, whether you are very much a local looking for your next adventure or visiting this cool city and eager to get outside, keep reading because we’re exploring the top five outdoor activities that Baltimore truly has to offer.
1. Kayaking or Paddleboarding in the Inner Harbor
You know, have you really experienced Baltimore if you haven’t seen it from the water? Renting a kayak or paddleboard in the Inner Harbor offers a super cool, unique perspective on the city skyline. Glide along the water, so it’s almost like seeing the iconic landmarks, you know, like the National Aquarium and the historic ships, from a different vantage point, which is pretty amazing. The harbor is very often bustling with activity, yet, gliding on the water is just peaceful.
Plus, you know, it is a good workout! Several outfitters around the harbor provide rentals and instruction, so, even if you are very much a beginner, you could still easily get out there and enjoy the experience. Places like the Baltimore Water Taxi also offer options for simply cruising the harbor if you would like a less strenuous experience. Keep in mind that it gets busy, especially on weekends, that getting out early helps to avoid the crowds. Plus, mornings usually offer calmer waters, which is kinda nice.
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2. Hiking or Biking the Gwynns Falls Trail
Want to escape the city without actually leaving it? Check out the Gwynns Falls Trail. This incredible trail stretches 15 miles, winding through parks, forests, and neighborhoods, right along the Gwynns Falls stream. You can hike or bike, taking in some very, very nice green scenery and fresh air. This trail offers a welcome break from the urban scenery, so it can be quite refreshing.
The Gwynns Falls Trail really offers diverse landscapes. Some sections are paved and smooth, great for biking or a casual walk. Others are dirt trails, better for a hike. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too, from birds to deer – nature is abundant around here. Several access points make it easy to hop on and off the trail at different spots, depending on how long you might like to be out. This means you could customize your hike or ride to be exactly the length you want.
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3. Exploring Cylburn Arboretum
The Cylburn Arboretum, basically a stunning 200-acre city park, is quite a tranquil spot located in Baltimore. So, whether you like very calm strolls through beautiful gardens, wandering wooded trails, or learning about the area’s native plants, this place kinda has something for nature enthusiasts of pretty much all types. Check out the Cylburn Mansion, so it’s this lovely Victorian-era building that is usually hosting exhibits and events.
Walking around, too, you’ll just be encountering all types of cool plant collections, so you will see flower gardens that are rather manicured to wilder woodland areas, offering an almost really diverse natural experience. It is just that the Arboretum offers programs, you know, like guided tours and workshops. Check the Cylburn Arboretum Friends website. It helps enhance the knowledge of nature, too. This place is popular with birdwatchers, you know, that stop for a visit, especially during migration seasons.
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4. Rock Climbing at Fairmount Park
Just a short drive from Baltimore, in the Philly area, actually is Fairmount Park. The perfect spot to actually find a really challenging outdoor adventure with awesome climbing spots! This location brings climbers of very much all skill levels. Keep in mind, though, it’s necessary to have the gear for an exciting yet risky climb!
Make sure the ropes you’re using for these tall climbs, very, very, much more like ascents, are able to handle it, as well. There will be a number of rocky crags with an outdoor-sy view surrounding these climbs! After your heart stops and your legs regain feeling after doing any of these ascents or climbs, then the entire park will always be around!
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5. Picnicking at Sherwood Gardens
So, if you’re after something a bit more laid-back, plan a picnic at Sherwood Gardens, very famously known for the gorgeous display of tulips and other blooms each spring. The place really comes alive with color, attracting lots of visitors and, too, photographers from very, very much everywhere. Yet, it’s so worth a little time, you will feel really impressed once you actually get in. Though it does become crowded during this peak season, so getting there earlier could mean the difference.
Later on, too, throughout the warmer months, you can always set up a picnic blanket, enjoying a relaxed afternoon among flowers. The gardens also are ideal for just simply strolling around, so that could almost lead to some peaceful moments in a super charming setting. This would be very ideal for families, as there is space for kids to run around safely, plus there will always be nice views for anyone to take in as they chill. As with pretty much anything involving the general public, so packing a little trash bag could always make your stay nice.
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