Baltimore’s Luxurious Locales

Admiral Fell Inn

Chef Ashish Alfred plates steak and broccoli at Duck Duck Goose Fell’s Point. Photograph by Devin Allen.

Step back in time with a stay at the historic Admiral Fell Inn, a former boarding house and recreational center that provided comfortable accommodations to seamen sailing into Fell’s Point. Today, the Inn consists of seven adjoining structures that contain 80 charming rooms inspired by Old World aesthetics—but with modern amenities. Expect European furnishings, Persian rugs and warm wood accents, plus cushy mattresses, high-speed internet and access to signature events like the Admiral’s Historic Ghost Tour.

Canopy Harbor Point

Positioned between two of Baltimore’s most popular waterfront neighborhoods—Harbor East and Fell’s Point—Canopy offers sweeping panoramas of the Inner Harbor (including the famous Domino Sugar sign) via the wide floor-to-ceiling windows that are a staple throughout the hotel. You’ll find the the best views at Canopy’s on-site restaurant Cindy Lou’s Fish House, a product of the illustrious Foreman Wolf restaurant group. Enjoy Southern-inspired dishes and playful cocktails from the wrap-around bar, relaxing lounge or expansive patio and promenade. Don’t feel like going out? Order room service instead and spend your evening binge-watching your favorite shows on the sleek in-room streaming televisions.

Canopy makes it easy to explore Charm City, thanks to the custom bike rack perched right outside the building.

Four Seasons

This world-renowned hotel’s Harbor East location is an urban retreat rife with luxury amenities like a five-star spa, rooftop infinity pool and a Harley Pasternak-designed fitness facility complete with personal trainers–you can even request an in-room Peloton. For the ultimate comfort experience, book the Four Seasons’ Serene Suite, which features a king bed, stone-clad fireplace, furnished balcony, fully equipped chef’s kitchen and cushy down pillows and duvets.

The Presidential Suite, shown here, was designed with celebrations in mind. In addition to a king bed, the room also comes with two rollaway beds should you need to accommodate guests. Other impressive features include a baby grand piano and 1.5 bathrooms.

guesthouse by good neighbor

Thoughtfully designed to feel like a true home away from home, guesthouse consists of seven shoppable, design-forward spaces that prominently feature creations and artworks by local makers. Don’t let the minimalist aesthetics fool you, though: the bright and airy rooms are adorned with little luxuries to ensure maximum comfort during your stay, from Oeko-tex certified cotton towels and linens designed in-house to the Maryland oak bed frames. Each room has its own distinct style, so you can choose the room that best fits your getaway vibe.

Treat yourself to Le Labo fragrances and bath products when staying at the guesthouse.

Hotel Indigo

As the site of the city’s first YMCA, Hotel Indigo has already helped shape Baltimore’s history, and it’s committed to upholding that legacy. Floating bookshelves and custom wallpaper nod to Baltimore’s reputation as a literary city, having been home to legendary writers like Edgar Allan Poe and Gertrude Stein, while plush amenities like large walk-in showers, Zenology bath products and flat-screen televisions make for a modern escape. Past and present also merge in the on-site eatery, Poets Modern Cocktails & Eats, which boasts a warm and playful aesthetic to match the lively atmosphere of the surrounding Mount Vernon neighborhood.

Unlock your literary self with an inspired meal at Poets Modern Cocktails & Eats.

Hotel Revival

Those looking to immerse themselves in Baltimore’s one-of-a-kind creative culture will find inspiration at Hotel Revival, the city’s only boutique art hotel. Each room has its own distinct flare, thanks to unexpected art pieces curated by the local Paradigm Gallery + Studio, as well as breathtaking views of local landmarks like Mount Vernon Square Park and the Washington Monument. Revival amenities are designed to provide guests with an equally comfortable and creatively-enriching experience. Whether you want to dance along to the live DJ in the lobby, sweat it out in the 24 hour fitness center, toast to your weekend away in the rooftop Topside restaurant or B-Side cocktail lounge, or unwind with an in-room spa treatment, it’s easy to relax and recharge at Revival. Be sure to check out the hotel’s Corner Store Gift Shop that sells an exclusive line of silk pillowcases and bonnets with bold and colorful prints.

With its stunning views of the city, curated rooms and locally-sourced beverages, Hotel Revival embodies the best of Baltimore. Photograph by Jason Varney.

The Ivy Hotel

Located in the charming Mount Vernon neighborhood, The Ivy is a historic mansion inn with 18 ornately decorated suites. In terms of aesthetic, no two rooms are the same, but each one is full of luxurious amenities such as dreamy 400-count sheets, fireplaces and heated bathroom floors. Your reservation grants you an abundance of complimentary services, including daily chef-made breakfasts, afternoon tea, nightly turndown services, a private car service and more.

Relax in one of the plush beds at the Ivy Hotel. Each room has its own unique design; Suite 7, shown here, is bedecked in vibrant pinks and warm patterns.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco

In the ornate 1906 Beaux-Arts building that once served as the B&O Railroad headquarters now sits the beautiful Kimpton Hotel Monaco, a tranquil respite from Baltimore’s busy downtown. The award-winning hotel boasts an array of amenities designed to help you de-stress and escape everyday life, including in-room yoga mats, free PUBLIC bikes, a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary coffee and tea services, a partnership with online therapy company Talkspace and a nightly wine hour. Plus, you can enjoy professional spa services – from aromatherapy to calming facials to body treatments – from the comfort and privacy of your room.

Escape the busyness of city life in the ornate Kimpton Hotel Monaco, once the headquarters to the B&O Railroad.

Sagamore Pendry Hotel

If you feel instantly more relaxed around water, we suggest a stay at the Sagamore Pendry in Fell’s Point. This storied 1914 property on Baltimore’s historic Recreation Pier—which once welcomed thousands of immigrants to the United States—has been transformed into a grand romantic hotel that honors a bygone era while meeting its guests’ modern needs. Along with sweeping views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the Pendry boasts an artfully designed courtyard, 24-hour fitness center, a stunning waterfront pool, a whiskey bar featuring Sagamore Rye and an Italian chophouse helmed by acclaimed Chef Andrew Carmellini.

Unwind in the Sagamore Pendry’s scenic courtyard, which features cushy seating, fireplaces and lofty glass ceilings.

Ulysses

Baltimore’s boutique hotel landscape grows with the addition of Ulysses, an ultra-chic hotel by the ASH NYC group. Located in the historic Latrobe building in Mount Vernon, the hotel promises “strong drinks and soft beds.” In terms of the aesthetic, original building features such as a preserved stained glass skylight, crown molding and a brass postal box are paired alongside quintessential Baltimore design elements—most notably a plethora of pink flamingos that pays homage to the 1972 John Waters film. For a nightcap, head to Bloom’s, the hotel’s self-described “late-night drinking parlor.”

Enjoy swanky sips at Bloom’s bar & lounge, ornamented in plush pink seats and shimmering metal accents.

Art of Balance Wellness Spa

Run by two doctors, Art of Balance aims to help you achieve full-body wellness. The spa, located at the Ritz Carlton Residences in Federal Hill, offers massages, facials and aroma therapy, as well as health and wellness treatments, therapies and coaching. Plus, choose from an array of non-surgical cosmetic procedures for aesthetic wellness.

The Four Seasons

While the Four Seasons in Harbor East is another excellent choice for a luxurious place to stay, the hotel’s spa is an attraction on its own. There’s a reason it’s been recognized as one of the top Spa Hotels in Maryland by U.S. News & World Report: the 10,000 square feet facility has 11 treatment rooms with advanced medical-grade technologies (including no-touch therapies) to help rejuvenate your body and mind. Other wellness services include reiki, chakra balancing, sound healing and personal training.

The spa at the Four Seasons Hotel offers pedicure services.

The Ivy Spa

With ample natural light and soft cotton linens, the Ivy Spa invites you to leave your cares at the door and recharge.

Hidden away on the second floor of The Ivy is the Spa, a warm oasis offering personalized, euphoric experiences designed to restore your body naturally and help you look and feel your best. Clients can pick from a wide list of services, from quick facial enhancements to 60-minute massages and luxurious head-to-toe rituals. For a transcendent spa experience, book the “Ultimate Zen,” which includes an ultra-hydrating full body exfoliation, body wrap and hot-oil scalp treatment followed by a shea butter massage. You can also work with your therapist to tailor your treatment to your specific needs—you can even request in-room services if you prefer.

The QG

The QG spa offers the usual suite of facials and massages, but if you’d like something extra, try the HydraFacial, a cutting-edge technique that promises results in just thirty minutes. On the fourth floor of the downtown building is Four One Oh Salon, a spot designed to serve The QG’s female clientele with hair cutting and styling services.

The Well: Community Acupuncture & Wellness

The Well is a calm retreat in the heart of Baltimore’s bustling Federal Hill neighborhood. This full-service wellness center specializes in acupuncture, shiatsu, group meditation, reiki, nutrition and massage therapy.

Charleston

Charleston’s Chef Cindy Wolf has been nominated for the James Beard Award several times, so you know you’re in for a delicious meal!

Inventive cuisine crafted by frequent James Beard Award nominee Cindy Wolf has made this upscale Harbor East restaurant a beloved favorite since it opened in the late 1990s, and for good reason. Wolf’s menus deftly combine classic French techniques with the comforting cooking of South Carolina. Charleston’s dishes feature acclaimed plates like black truffle risotto, pan-seared foie gras, cornmeal-fried oysters and slow-roasted pork belly. For an unbeatable private dining experience, request to be seated in the Wine Library.

The Bygone

A swanky setting with a panoramic view—thanks to The Bygone’s location on the rooftop of the Four Seasons—is married with a historic fantasy approach for this buzzy concept restaurant. Chef Matthew Oetting took inspiration from the glamorous ’20s and ’30s, then blended it with nouvelle cuisine of the post-World War II era and today’s trends to establish his French-inspired menu. The result: a truly special dining experience.

Gertrude’s

Set against the gorgeous backdrop of the Baltimore Museum of Art sculpture garden, Gertrude’s is as much a scenic destination as the museum it calls home. Owned by chef John Shields, a well-known expert in Chesapeake cuisine, the restaurant specializes in locally sourced farm-fresh food that honors the area’s culinary traditions. From small plates and salads at lunchtime, to regional specialties like Chincoteague Single-Fry Oysters on its dinner menu, this sophisticated spot is a lovely way to sample the flavors of the region. The outdoor terrace also makes for luxe party locale, whether it’s a shower, micro wedding or corporate event.

The Elk Room

Ranked as one of Esquire’s best bars in the country in 2018, this Harbor East speakeasy offers up stellar cocktails in a chic, intimate space inspired by the 1920s. At the Elk Room, the guest list is capped at 50 and flash photography is prohibited to play up the secretive vibe. The drink menu is lined with original concoctions, such as a drink titled after jazz great Thelonious Monk’s “Misterioso” made with Amaro Montenegro, limoncello, locally made cold brew, cardamom, pistachio syrup, rose water, egg and cream.

The Elk Room provides an intimate space for a late night cocktail or live entertainment.

Monarque

Located in Harbor East, Monarque employs opulent furnishings, romantic cocktails and lively performances to transport you to 1920s France. Often referred to as the age of prosperity, the era exploded with artistry and extravagance was very much in fashion. The inspiration is evident in the restaurant’s art deco design, which includes studded cabaret-style chairs, circular gold light fixtures and exposed brick walls. Think a more modern, tastier version of Paris’s Moulin Rouge, courtesy of Chef Marc Hennessy’s innovative interpretations of classic French dishes, an impressive 500 label wine list and rotating schedule of performers including burlesque dancers, poets, jazz singers and circus acts.

Ouzo Bay

Ouzo Bay’s low blue lighting makes for a relaxing dining atmosphere.

Ouzo Bay focuses on Greek cuisine, combining classic dishes such as lamb keftedes, spanakopita and hummus with fresh seafood that’s flown in daily (we’ve heard that the Bronzino comes straight from Patras). The signature blue lighting throughout the restaurant establishes an upscale, relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of the Mediterranean. Here you’ll find one of the most extensive ouzo selections on the East Coast. And don’t miss Ouzo Beach, an extension of the restaurant just steps from the front door, complete with a courtyard and outdoor bar.

Petit Louis Bistro

A little piece of Paris imported into Roland Park, this charming bistro has been a local favorite for more than two decades. Voted the best restaurant in the city by Baltimore magazine in 2020, Petit Louis Bistro’s menu includes fresh takes on classic French dishes like duck leg confit, croque-monsieur and grilled lamb steak. And we’d be remiss not to mention the desserts – creme brûlée, lemon tart, profiteroles, chocolate mousse and more – all of which have been expertly paired with wines by the on-site sommelier.

The Prime Rib

At The Prime Rib’s flagship restaurant in Mount Vernon, luxury is on the menu. Inspired by the founders’ love for 1940s glamour, the restaurant boasts rich leather seating, tuxedoed waitstaff, a complimentary valet and nightly live musicians. The steaks and seafood, too, are second to none – they’ve been lauded by Food & Wine, the National Restaurant Association and Zagat. You’re guaranteed a perfectly roasted prime rib, chilled oysters and an expertly shaken (or stirred) martini every time.

If you want to cozy up with a book…

Baltimore has an abundance of bookstores, libraries and literary cafes where you can turn off your phone and escape in a story for a couple hours. Options include the George Peabody Library, aka the “cathedral of books,” Greedy Reads in Remington and the cozy Bird in Hand cafe.

The Peabody Library, which opened its doors in 1878, stands six stories tall and houses more than 300,000 books.

If you want to feel inspired…

Roam the sculpture gardens at the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) or Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA). AVAM highlights intuitive, self-taught artists and you can expect to see 55-foot whirligigs and sculptures made from salvaged mechanical parts. Or spend some time to yourself in the Meditation Chapel. The BMA features 33 sculptures spread out over two gardens and three acres, making it the perfect place to wander after enjoying lunch at Gertrude’s.

If you want to be in nature…

Take advantage of Baltimore’s parks and green spaces to stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic or exercise. Circle the reservoir in Druid Hill Park, take in the Inner Harbor from historic Fort McHenry or snap some selfies in front of the Patterson Park Pagoda.

A view of the reservoir in Druid Hill Park in Baltimore.

Harbor East

A trendy extension of its neighbor, the Inner Harbor, this developing upscale neighborhood continues to evolve as a luxurious destination with plenty of boutique shopping options. Along Aliceanna and S. Exeter Streets, you’ll find local and national brands Anthropologie, Curiosity, Free People, Lululemon, Sassanova and South Moon Under. Pick out a bottle of vino to go with dinner at Bin 604 Wine Sellers, and end your day with a jazz show at Keystone Korner.

The Katyn Memorial in the center of Harbor East honors the victims of the 1940 Polish massacre.

Hampden

Don’t let the zany exteriors and colorful sidewalks fool you: Hampden houses tons of rare vintage fashions and antique furnishings. On your way into the neighborhood, swing by Hunting Ground, located in an old converted church on Falls Road. There, owners Jenna Hattenburg and Jess Soulen mix in a highly curated selection of stylish vintage clothing finds with small, independent brands. When finished, hop over to The Avenue (aka 36th Street), where a slew of vintage shops await, including Balto, Charlotte Elliott & The Bookstore Next Door and Paradiso. Continue down the street to nearby Doubledutch Boutique, which sells modern designs with a retro flair alongside a selection of vintage goods.

Fell’s Point

With cobblestone streets and scenic waterfront views, Fell’s Point makes a stunning shopping destination.

One of the oldest neighborhoods in Baltimore, Fell’s Point marries historic charm with upscale dining and retail destinations. Standouts include Hats in the Belfry and Katwalk, both of which have been providing high quality, one-of-a-kind fashions to Baltimoreans since 1997. On Broadway Street, you’ll find clothing boutiques Poppy & Stella and Brightside, whose robust selection of brands are curated to make women feel confident and beautiful. While you’re out, stop by Sacre Sucre and treat yourself to mouthwatering macarons, marshmallows, viennoiseries and more. Be warned: everything looks so pretty, it’ll be hard to pick just one pastry.

Charm City Helicopters

If you’re interested in taking in the Baltimore sights, there’s no better way than a birds-eye view aboard a private chopper. Charm City Helicopters will take you around the Inner Harbor and its neighboring communities, giving you a bird’s eye view of the action below. Booking is available all-year round with special seasonal options, including the City Lights Tour, Fall Foliage Package or Christmas Light Package.

Yacht Charters on the Bay

Of course, while you’re in Baltimore, you’ll likely want to spend some time on the Chesapeake Bay. From an iconic riverboat to luxurious yachts, Yacht Charters on the Bay by Watermark has 13 U.S. Coast Guard-certified vessels with varying amenities, including air conditioning, event spaces, alcohol services and an on-board crab feast.