|
During your Baltimore vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
Star-Spangled Banner Flag House
Everyone remembers Betsy Ross and the first American flag. Baltimoreans recall Mary Pickersgill and the 15-star flag she sewed. It flew over Fort McHenry during the bombardment of the War of 1812 that inspired Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner." Though the flag is now part of the Smithsonian, its seamstress is remembered in the 1793 house where she lived. Guides offer visitors a glimpse of her life and times. See period furniture and artifacts of the war. A giant glass flag dominates a 2003 addition. Visitors can walk up the stairs behind it and get a sense of how big the star-spangled banner really is. The addition, which is handicapped-accessible, has an orientation theatre, children's hands-on room, and exhibit space. In 2004-05 it is due to offer exhibits on the Chesapeake Bay Campaign of the War of 1812, Mary Pickersgill, and American flags.
Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
This church has been a monument to religious freedom since 1806. Designed by Benjamin Latrobe -- who was designing the U.S. Capitol at the same time -- the neoclassical basilica is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the country. A national shrine and historic landmark, it was the first cathedral built in the United States. It's a beautiful neoclassical gem visited by Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, and Pope John Paul II, as well as numerous other religious and political figures. Restoration work begins in earnest in 2004, but the basilica will stay open until January 2005. Then it will close for 18 months.
Top of the World Observation Level
For a 360-degree view of Baltimore city, head for the 27th floor of the World Trade Center, the world's tallest pentagonal building, next to Harborplace. In addition to the fine view, you can acquire a bit of background about Baltimore from the exhibits, hands-on displays, and multimedia presentations. Renovations have improved viewing conditions and made it more accessible to disabled visitors. The only way to reach a higher altitude is Port Discovery's HiFlyer. This costs less, and the floor doesn't move.
Sleep Inn & Suites Airport
Free continental breakfast. 24 hour airport shuttle to Baltimore/Washington International Airport. WIFI high speed internet access available. 6 miles south of Baltimore. Baltimore Light Rail adjacent to hotel. Exercise room on premises. Rose restaurant ...
Mount Vernon Hotel
The Mount Vernon Hotel is an historic building with 133 guest rooms and is only 9 blocks from Inner Harbor, Convention Center, Oriole Park at Camden Yards and the Baltimore Raven's Stadium. Located in the historic Mount Vernon Cultural District, guests can walk to the Walters Art Museum, Peabody Institute and nearby dining on historic Charles Street.The hotel offers complimentary continental breakfast daily. Several locally popular restaurants are within a short walk on historic Charles ...
|
