Fort McHenry
The flag that flies at Fort McHenry is 30 by 42 feet, big enough for Francis Scott Key to "see by the dawn's early light." The flag's 15 stars and stripes still fly as boldly as they did that terrible night when soldiers here stood once again to reclaim American independence.The star-shaped fort looks much as it did in 1814, the year of the British attack. Its buildings, repaired in the days following that attack, still stand.The Star-Spangled Banner is central to this fort, which is a national park. Visitors are invited to take part in the daily changing of the flag. In fact, because the flag is so big, about 20 people are needed to keep it off the ground and fold it. Stop by at 9:30am or 4:30pm (7:30pm June-Aug) to join in. The large flag flies only during daylight hours, but a smaller flag flies at night. The rangers conclude the flag-raising ceremony with a short historical talk about the fort, the flag, or the national anthem. The Star-Spangled Banner Weekend held in mid-September recalls the British attack on the fort. On selected Sundays, from 6 to 8pm, military bands perform with a color guard, drill teams, and the Fort McHenry Guard dressed in 19th century uniforms, a ceremony which began in 1803. Admission to the ceremony is free. Call or visit the website for a schedule. Exhibits recall Baltimore under siege during the War of 1812, the fort's Civil War service, and its use as an army hospital during World War I. A visit takes about 90 minutes. The fort sits on a point in the harbor, where visitors can see the Inner Harbor, the Patapsco River, and down to the Chesapeake Bay. Visits to the park outside the fort are free, and picnicking is allowed.

Homewood House
If you have time, visit both Evergreen and Homewood (they are a mile apart) to see how differently the rich lived in different centuries. Homewood was designed and built by the son of Charles Carroll of Carrollton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Built in 1801, this five-part classic Palladian home is a dazzling example of Federal architecture. Its interiors boast superb woodcarving, plaster ornamentation, and an array of fanlights. It's painted in a rainbow of soothing colors and decorated in pieces of the time, some from the Carroll family. Highlights are the main hall, the family sitting room with toys and doll furniture, the music room, the long lemon-yellow hall, and the master bedroom with its high cove ceiling and bookcases tucked into the sides of the fireplace. The drapes, carpets, and upholstery, though not original, are period reproductions. Tours last about 45 minutes. Changing exhibits in the main hall often focus on the decorative arts or architecture.

Holocaust Memorial and Sculpture
In the heart of downtown near the Inner Harbor, this open-air memorial starkly recalls the six million Jews murdered by the Nazis in Europe between 1933 and 1945.

Clarion Hotel Peabody Court
Old world charm European hotel located in the historic district. Inner Harbor, aquarium, restaurants and shops nearby. Government issued photo identification required at check-in. Hotel offers free wired or wireless high-speed Internet access. Hotel's restaurant (George's on Mt. Vernon Square) is a non-smoking only facility. Parking Charge: 29.00 plus tax overnight guests. 19.00/tax daily parking. In room safe 1.00 per night (optional). Pet Deposit: 50.00 (refundable). Pet Charge: 15.00 per ...

Tremont Park Hotel
The Tremont Park Hotel with its 58 suites, offers affordable luxury in a quiet setting. Featuring a distinctive European atmosphere in the heart of Baltimore's business and cultural district. Within walking distance to Inner Harbor, Baltimore Convention Center and the Theater and Restaurant district. Newly added 24-hour complimentary self service Business Center and 24-hour complimentary Fitness ...

Comfort Inn Bwi Airport
Free full breakfast buffet. 24 hour airport shuttle to BWI Airport. WIFI high speed internet access available. Full service restaurant on premises. Baltimore Light Rail adjacent to hotel. 2.5 miles from BWI. Exercise room on premises. Parking limit: Length of stay only (unless parking ...