Baltimore is a diverse city rich in history and heritage that offers authentic and rewarding meeting experiences. It's also an easy place to get to and navigate. With so many museums and attractions, Baltimore is an ideal destination for a fun, one-of-a-kind event. Successful Meetings spoke with Al Hutchinson, president and CEO of Visit Baltimore, about what's new in the destination and what planners should know about.
What's new in the city for groups?
There is always something new and exciting happening for visitors and groups. A new food tour perfect for groups is "Bite of Baltimore," a dynamic combination of food and history guided across five different restaurants throughout the city. The guides are dedicated to telling attendees the story, and not just the dates and facts, of why each neighborhood and each cultural center of our city matters. Highlights include pit beef, charcuterie, cocktails -- and crab cakes, of course. We are also very excited about the opening of Hotel Revival, a Joie de Vivre property, set to open in our Mount Vernon Cultural District this spring. Highlights include a ground-floor signature restaurant and bar; three private karaoke boxes; a second-floor reception and lobby lounge with a dedicated bar; and an enclosed rooftop bar and restaurant with prime views of the Washington Monument and surrounding neighborhoods.
What's a "hidden gem" for visiting groups?
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Parkway Film Center, also known as The Parkway, is a 'rescued ruin' in our Station North Arts and Entertainment district, which sits in the center of the city just steps away from Baltimore's Penn Station. The neighborhood itself is an eclectic mix of artists' live-work spaces, art galleries, outdoor art installations, rowhomes businesses, restaurants, and now The Parkway. The theater features curated, bold programming that showcases films from every region, era, and genre. It is also home to the annual Maryland Film Festival.
What's a good outing for a group looking to get a sense of the city's culture or history?
Baltimore is not only an important part of American history, but also plays an integral role in world history. Groups can immerse themselves in the birthplace of our national anthem at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. During the War of 1812, Fort McHenry defended Baltimore's harbor from British invasion. Visitors can experience this history during the interactive Flag Talk, and can join a National Park Service ranger in unrolling the 30-by-42-foot replica Star-Spangled Banner flag on the site where it flew 200 years ago.
Where should a group go to get a truly local culinary experience?
Baltimore's food scene is flourishing, and major authorities on culinary travel are taking note. Zagat recently named us one of the 30 most exciting food cities in America, while Coastal Living named us one of America's five hottest food cities on the coast. Groups with a variety of taste buds should check out R. House, the latest chef-driven food hall in Baltimore. Created as an incubator for chefs to explore new concepts, there are 10 permanent stalls that feature all local food, including a craft cocktail bar, plus space for pop-ups. For a full list of dining options across Baltimore, click here.
Anything else that you think makes your city a great destination for groups?
Baltimore's immersive arts and culture scene is not only filled with history but also embodies emerging artists, world-renowned museums, and burgeoning entertainment districts. Our team works tirelessly to provide an authentic Baltimore experience to groups both inside and beyond the convention center walls, showcasing our welcoming charm, diverse attractions, and booming culinary scene that has turned Baltimore into the coolest city on the East Coast.