Historic Trails: Walking Tours of Baltimore’s Oldest Streets

Baltimore, Maryland, is a historic city with a rich culture. The city’s oldest streets are lined with charming townhouses, churches, and businesses that tell the story of Baltimore’s past.

One of the best ways to experience Baltimore’s history is to take a walking tour of the city’s oldest streets. Several companies offer walking tours of Baltimore, including Baltimore Heritage and Old Town Baltimore.

Here are a few of the historic trails that you can explore on a walking tour of Baltimore:

• Fells Point: Fells Point is a historic neighborhood located along the waterfront. The community was founded in the early 1700s and was once a major center for shipping and trade. Today, Fells Point is a popular tourist destination with various shops, restaurants, and bars.

On a walking tour of Fells Point, you can see the historic cobblestone streets, the Fells Point Maritime Museum, and the Betsy Ross House, believed to be the birthplace of the American flag.

• Mount Vernon: Mount Vernon is a historic neighborhood located north of the Inner Harbor. The community was founded in the late 1700s and was once home to many wealthy Baltimore residents. Mount Vernon is a popular residential and commercial neighborhood with various shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

On a walking tour of Mount Vernon, you can see the Washington Monument, the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University, and the Walters Art Museum.

• Jonestown: Jonestown is a historic neighborhood located northeast of the Inner Harbor. The area was founded in the early 1700s and was once a major center for industry. Today, Jonestown is a revitalizing neighborhood with various new businesses and residents.

On a walking tour of Jonestown, you can see the Flag House, which is the site where the Star-Spangled Banner was sewn, and the Carroll Mansion, which was once home to the Carroll family, one of Baltimore’s most prominent families.

In addition to these guided walking tours, you can create your walking tour of Baltimore’s oldest streets. Here are a few tips:

• Choose a neighborhood: Decide which area you want to explore. Fells Point, Mount Vernon, and Jonestown are all good options.
• Map out your route: Once you have chosen a neighborhood, map out a way you want to follow. You can use a map or a smartphone app to create your route.
• Do your research: Before you start your walking tour, research the neighborhood and the buildings you will see. This will help you to appreciate the history and architecture of the area.
• Take your time: Don’t rush your walking tour. Take your time to admire the buildings and learn about the neighborhood’s history.

No matter how you explore Baltimore’s oldest streets, you will indeed have a memorable experience. The city’s history is rich, and the architecture is beautiful.