Charm City Tales and Culture

America As You Like It • 15 January 2025

Renowned for its world-famous seafood and home to the largest public collection of Matisse works, accessible to view for free, Baltimore is a must-visit destination. From exploring Baltimore's vibrant art scene and the Maryland Science Center to discovering the Baltimore Blueway, a unique network of paddling trails that offers a scenic and exciting way to experience the city’s vibrant waterfront and attractions.

Historical Attractions

Baltimore’s history is captivating. As the birthplace of the national anthem and home to historic ships like the USS Constellation, the last remaining sail-only warship commissioned by the U.S. Navy, it’s a haven for history buffs. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine played a pivotal role during the War of 1812. Despite enduring days of bombardment, the fort successfully thwarted an enemy advance. Poet Francis Scott Key was inspired to write “The Defence of Fort McHenry,” which was later set to music and became the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Baltimore also celebrates the legacy of Edgar Allan Poe, the famed American writer who launched his literary career after winning a short story contest. His original home has been converted into a museum in downtown Baltimore. Notably, his poem “The Raven” inspired the name of the Baltimore Ravens NFL team. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is also home to several historic ships and a lighthouse, these floating museums celebrate the city’s maritime heritage. Among them is the USS Constellation, a ship that contributed to history through daring rescues and surviving hurricanes.

Museums

Baltimore boasts a world-class art scene that is well worth exploring. The city is home to several outstanding museums, including the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Walters Art Museum, the American Visionary Art Museum, and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture. For a more interactive experience, visit the National Aquarium, the Maryland Zoo, or the Maryland Science Center. The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) has been a cultural treasure for more than a century, housing over 95,000 works of art, including the world’s largest collection of Henri Matisse works. With its diverse range of sculptures, paintings, and other mediums, the BMA showcases the vibrancy and rich culture of Baltimore.

Culinary Arts

Baltimore’s culinary scene is sure to delight and surprise. Baltimore boasts a rich variety of flavours, from international cuisines and historic public markets, such as Broadway Market and Lexington Market, the oldest continuously operating public market in the United States, to trendy food halls and mouthwatering vegan options. The city also offers an abundance of fresh seafood. With iconic Maryland crab cakes, steamed crabs, oysters, and shrimp, Baltimore’s seafood markets and restaurants proudly showcase the region’s deep maritime heritage. Complementing the cuisine are expertly crafted cocktails and locally cherished breweries, creating a dining experience that satisfies every palate.

Sports

Sports are integral to the Baltimore experience. With the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens and MLB’s Baltimore Orioles, the city thrives on team spirit. The iconic Oriole Park at Camden Yards, built in 1992, is home to the Orioles and kicks off the MLB season every March 31. The Ravens play at M&T Bank Stadium, with the NFL season beginning in August. Affectionately known as the Birds or the Os, the Orioles are named after Maryland’s state bird, known for its black and orange plumage. Baltimore’s most famous player, George Herman “Babe” Ruth, was recruited in 1914 at the age of 19. The Baltimore Ravens, formed in 1996 after Art Modell moved the Cleveland Browns to Baltimore, take their name from Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “The Raven.” The team has since won two Super Bowl championships, in 2001 and 2013.

Outdoor Activities

Baltimore is full of unexpected open spaces, featuring parks, promenades, and waterfront settings perfect for outdoor recreation, fitness activities, and relaxation. One of the best ways to experience Baltimore is on the water. Head to the harbour to grab a paddle, set sail, or take an Inner Harbor boat tour. The Baltimore Water Taxi connects neighbourhoods like the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill, Fell’s Point, and Harbor East. Sit back and enjoy the view as you head to your next destination. The Water Taxi also offers one-hour BYOB cruises, allowing you to enjoy the sights with your favourite beverage. Exploring Baltimore by foot is equally rewarding. Run along scenic waterfronts or explore the city’s more than 4,000 acres of parkland. Try Federal Hill Park or Canton Waterfront Park for breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the city.

Nevada: From Neon to Nature

by America As You Like It • 11 June 2026
There are some places that surprise you, and Nevada is one of them.

Make it Memorable―Dutchess County

by America As You Like It • 10 June 2026
Located in the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley, Dutchess County blends scenic beauty, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene. Spanning 800 square miles of rolling countryside and historic landmarks, it invites discovery at every turn—from the riverside charm of Poughkeepsie, known as the Hudson’s Queen City, to its picturesque towns and villages. Home to the Culinary Institute of America and President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt, Dutchess County is where heritage, flavour, and landscape come together in unforgettable ways.

Exploring Crystal River, Florida

by America As You Like It • 14 May 2026
Crystal River invites you into a gentler side of Florida, where spring fed waters wind through quiet forests and wildlife drifts just beneath the surface. Days here move at an unhurried pace, shaped by warm Gulf breezes, peaceful lakes, and encounters with nature that feel both intimate and unforgettable. Whether you are gliding across clear water by kayak, cycling beneath towering trees, dining on freshly caught seafood, or wandering through centuries of history, the region offers a sense of calm and connection that stays with you long after you leave.

My Journey through the Pacific Northwest

by America As You Like It • 8 May 2026
Exploring Oregon and Washington State is an opportunity of a lifetime. From the Hoh Rainforest to the newly renovated Seattle waterfront, there are spectacular opportunities to experience these remarkable states across a variety of climates. I was fortunate enough to travel from Portland to Seattle, including stops along the way in Astoria, the Evergreen Coast, and the Olympic Peninsula.

Race to Bourbon City: Discover Louisville

by America As You Like It • 27 March 2026
Louisville is Kentucky’s largest city and a destination rich in culture, history, and sporting heritage. Nestled along the Ohio River on the border with Indiana, the city is perhaps best known for hosting the world-famous Kentucky Derby. Explore attractions such as the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory and the Muhammad Ali Center, making Louisville an engaging destination for travellers with diverse interests.

Hidden Gems of Mississippi

by America As You Like It • 10 February 2026
Mississippi is a destination that combines the charm of seaside relaxation with cultural and historical richness. Quiet beaches and vibrant towns, boutique shopping, freshly caught seafood, and scenic landscapes. Mississippi is steeped in history, from Native American heritage to Civil War landmarks, and is renowned for its musical legacy. Its architecture includes impressive antebellum mansions, particularly in Natchez, providing a glimpse into the state’s elegant past. Amtrak rail services along the coast stop in Biloxi and Bay St. Louis, making it easy to explore without hiring a car. For those who do wish to venture further, a fly-drive holiday through the state reveals a wealth of attractions.

Our Guide to Cleveland, Ohio

by America As You Like It • 26 January 2026
Cleveland, Ohio is located along the southern shore of Lake Erie, close to the Canadian border and approximately 60 miles west of the Ohio–Pennsylvania state line. Enjoy its beautiful waterfronts, vibrant arts and entertainment scene, and a range of family-friendly experiences. Visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the West Side Market and catch the excitement of an NBA Cavaliers game, NFL Browns match or an MLB Guardians game.

Savour Oregon: Explore the State Through Its Flavours

by America As You Like It • 21 January 2026
Tucked into the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Oregon is a place where breathtaking landscapes meet warm, welcoming communities. From rugged coastlines and fertile valleys to creative cities and small town charm, the state’s beauty is matched only by its vibrant food and drink culture. Oregon is celebrated for its world-class wines and renowned wineries, fresh coastal seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, and iconic food truck scene. In this blog, we invite you to savour these flavours and discover the tastes, stories, and experiences that make Oregon an unforgettable destination.

Neighbourhoods & Districts: Discovering Oklahoma City

by America As You Like It • 8 December 2025
Welcome to Oklahoma City, a vibrant destination that blends Western heritage, modern culture and lively urban energy. Whether you are planning a fly-drive adventure or a weekend getaway, the city offers a rich mix of attractions, from historic stockyards and Route 66 landmarks to thriving arts districts and bustling nightlife. This blog will take you through the city’s most exciting neighbourhoods, helping you plan a truly memorable visit.

Oklahoma - Cowboys, Music And Culture

by America As You Like It • 5 December 2025
In this blog, we introduce you to the rich spirit of Oklahoma , a south–central state deeply rooted in Native American heritage and Old West tradition. Here, you can explore world-class Indigenous museums, historic tribal sites and vibrant powwows that celebrate centuries of culture. Oklahoma also offers striking landscapes, from rolling plains to dramatic cliffs, providing the perfect backdrop for a journey through America’s storied past. Make Oklahoma your next fly drive holiday destination, where history, culture and wide-open adventure come together.
More posts