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WHAT'S THE SCOOP?

SAMPLE STORY IDEAS ON ALL THINGS BALTIMORE

Baltimore is a year-round vacation destination filled with experiences that appeal to travelers of all interests. From free museums and unforgettable dining experiences to strolls along the Inner Harbor and afternoons at Camden Yards, Baltimore's attractions leave visitors wanting more. Sample story ideas include:

In the Neighborhood - Baltimore is a city of eclectic and bustling neighborhoods, and it is hard to pick just one favorite area of Baltimore. A few areas that visitors will not want to miss include hipster Mount Vernon, historic Fell's Point, funky Canton, quirky Hampden, upscale Harbor East and a slice of Europe in Little Italy. Variety is the key ingredient in Baltimore's neighborhoods - each location has its own unique personality, lively character and story to tell. Together the neighborhoods create the rich tapestry that makes Baltimore a cozy, interesting and real city with small-town charm.

Just Around the Corner - Baltimore is easily accessible from the East Coast, whether it's a short flight, an Amtrak train ride or a road trip. Especially with the current economic conditions facing U.S. vacationers, a trip to Baltimore can provide a quick getaway and is a great value compared to other East Coast destinations. Baltimore is easy to get to, and easy to get around with all the attractions, hotels and restaurants within walking distance of Baltimore's spectacular waterfront.

Culture Haven, At the Right Price - With over 20 museums and galleries located in the heart of Baltimore, arts and culture lovers might have to add an extra day to their trip. Two world-class museums, the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Walters Art Museum, have permanently eliminated admission fees, so that the treasures inside can be enjoyed by everyone. Kids of all ages can step back and witness the history of pop culture at Geppi's Entertainment Museum or view nontraditional, original works by self-taught artists at the American Visionary Art Museum.

Bring Your Appetite - Baltimore is becoming a "can't miss" destination for culinary travelers in the United States. A city with a "no velvet ropes" policy, Baltimore's cuisine has a comfort vibe that is recognizable in restaurant service and cozy, yet upscale, atmospheres with diverse menus to please every palate. Dining in Baltimore provides a great variety of neighborhood treasures, from Faidley's famous crab cakes at Lexington Market to sampling celebrated chef John Shields' creations at Gertrude's in the Baltimore Museum of Art. However, Baltimore is more than just crab cakes - there is so much more to Baltimore's culinary scene, including locally owned restaurants where chefs are having fun with food, true farm-to-table experiences and the freshest Chesapeake Bay seafood around.

Take a Pass at Top Attractions - No one likes standing in line for tickets at one attraction after another. Harbor Pass and Heritage Pass enhance the visitor experience by allowing quick access to Baltimore's most popular attractions and historical treasures at discounted prices providing both value and convenience. With the new addition of the Harbor Pass+, you can add three more great attractions and another day - a savings of 25 percent over single ticket purchases. Save even more when you purchase in advance online or by phone.

Shop Til You Drop - Baltimore's collection of boutiques, antique shops and art galleries are a shopper's paradise. From the perfect party dress to a unique piece of antique furniture or a contemporary sculpture, Baltimore's shops let every visitor take home a piece of the city. Don't leave without stepping foot in shops such as Trixie's Palace, fashion boutique Cupcake or art galleries such as the Light Street Gallery. Or, pick up the latest new handbag at Harbor East's Handbags in the City and window shop the quaint row of South Charles Street boutiques found in Federal Hill. If unique and original is what you seek, Baltimore shopping has it all.

African American History - A number of African Americans were integral in shaping the cultural, social, political and economic fabric of Baltimore and our nation. Their contributions remain a vital component to the city's heritage and even inspired a Broadway play - "Thurgood," - based on the life of Baltimore's Thurgood Marshall. Baltimore's rich African American history and attractions are one of the city's greatest draws. Top attractions include the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Frederick Douglass - Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum, the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, the Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cultural Center, and the Dorothy Parker Memorial.

Meet Me in Baltimore - Baltimore is undergoing a major renaissance including groundbreaking growth in accommodations and meeting facilities, nightlife, and attractions, all just two feet away in this walkable destination. With the recent opening of the 757-room Hilton Baltimore Convention Center Hotel, Baltimore now offers more than 1,000 committable rooms attached to the Baltimore Convention Center, all within walking distance to the shopping, restaurants and attractions of Baltimore's Inner Harbor.

FamilyMore - Moms, dads and kids alike can learn and play at family hot spots like Port Discovery Children's Museum, Sports Legends at Camden Yards, the National Aquarium in Baltimore and the Maryland Science Center. A variety of hotels and restaurants with family-friendly prices add to Baltimore's appeal for the entire gang.

A Cleaner, Greener, Healthier City - Baltimore is cleaner and greener than ever before. Baltimore has cleaned up its act with new citywide cleaning initiatives; expansions to parks and trail ways; and a new, greener infrastructure. Rent a bike in the harbor and enjoy Baltimore's fresh air as you pedal along the recently expanded Gwynns Falls trail -
spanning 15 miles and connecting more than 30 neighborhoods - or walk the more than seven miles of waterfront promenade surrounding Baltimore's picturesque harbor. Check out the new Hilton Baltimore's "green roof" which turns otherwise useless space into green space, or hop an environmentally friendly ride on the new Super Shuttle buses that will take you anywhere you want to go - for free! - proposed for July 2009.