|
During your Baltimore vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
American Visionary Art Museum
Look for the "Whirligig," a 55-foot multicolored, wind-powered sculpture at the front of this curvaceous building. Visionary art is created by people without artistic training but feel compelled to draw, paint, or build a ship with matchsticks. Everything is fascinating; some can be quite troubling. And the artists' stories can be as interesting as their art. The museum's three stories contain rooms that are as soothing as the art is vivid. From the moment you set your eyes on Emery Blagdon's "Healing Machines" mobile hanging down three floors, you'll be entranced. Some exhibits are too strong for children, and the museum will alert you about that. Other exhibits are a joy that children would love. A sculpture barn and sculpture garden are filled with other delights. The AVAM is also home to Joy America Café and an offbeat gift shop on the first floor. AVAM is adding new exhibit space and sculpture garden due to open in 2004.
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.
Walters Art Museum
The Walters, with its collections of ancient art, medieval armor, and French 19th-century painting, has always been one of Baltimore's great attractions. Begun with the 22,000-object collection of William and Henry Walters, this gem's ancient and medieval galleries got new sparkle in a 2001 renovation. Walk through the galleries of sculpture, paintings, jewelry, mummies, and sarcophagi and see the progress of fine art through 50 centuries. The exhibits finish with objects from the Middle Ages in the Knight's Hall, with tapestries, furnishings, and suits of armor. The Egyptian collection is one of the best in the United States. Traveling exhibits scheduled for 2004 and 2005 will focus on Russian icons, George Stuff's horse paintings, and French drawing. There's also a cafe serving light fare. Children are always admitted free.
Days Inn Baltimore West, Security Blvd.
Short drive to Inner Harbor, Oriole's Baseball, Aquarium, Shopping Mall, and Social Security Administration - Athletic club 3 blocks, discount w/showing room ...
Best Western Hotel & Conference Center
'From: Interstate 95. North or Southbound: Take Exit 57 to the Best Western Hotel & Conference Center. 'From: BWI Airport (14 miles). Exit the airport via Interstate 195 West. Merge onto Interstate 95 North. Take Exit 57 to the Best Western Hotel & Conference ...
|
|
