Baltimore's Inner Harbor is a scenic part of Charm City (Baltimore's nickname) that comprises many must-see tourist sites such as the National Aquarium, Baltimore Convention Center, Maryland Science Center and American Visionary Art Museum. Because of the cultural activities, exciting nightlife, good eats and desirable water views, budget accommodations can be hard to come by if travelers want to stay in the heart of the Inner Harbor. Room rates in this area can easily start close to $300 per night. However, some reasonably priced hotels are available, especially if travelers are affiliated with AAA, AARP or the military. In addition, taking advantage of many hotel special packages often results in better prices as well as added amenities.
The Hampton Inn and Suites, owned by Hilton, offers 116 rooms in the heart of the Inner Harbor, just two blocks from the waterfront. A fitness room and full-size pool, as well as complimentary breakfast, are additional perks. An on-site convenience store provides the opportunity to stock up on any sundries while visiting. Guest rooms and suites come in a variety of sleeping arrangements, with two queen beds, one king bed or a sofa bed, to accommodate parties of varying sizes. Wheelchair-accessible rooms are also available. Check-in begins at 3 p.m., while check-out commences at noon. As of August 2010, rates begin at $169 per night. AARP and AAA discounts are available.
Hampton Inn and Suites Baltimore Inner Harbor
131 East Redwood Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
410-539-7888
hamptoninn.hilton.com
The Brookshire Suites, owned by Sterling Hotels, comprise 97 contemporary guest rooms just steps from Baltimore's Inner Harbor waterfront. Room rates--ranging from $144 to $239 per night as of August 2010--include breakfast at the hotel's Cloud Club restaurant and use of the fitness center. Check-in at the entirely nonsmoking, pet-friendly hotel begins at 4 p.m. and check-out takes place at noon. Discounted packages are offered for patients, and their families, of nearby Johns Hopkins Hospital. Extended stay options are also available.
Brookshire Suites
120 East Lombard Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
866-583-4162
harbormagic.com
The Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel, owned by Starwood Resorts, lies just east of the harbor. The newly renovated building houses 337 hotel rooms that vary dramatically in price; as of August 2010, pricing started in the mid-$100 range per night. Packages, when available, offer the best chance for scoring a good deal on price. All of the rooms are completely smoke free and some even provide a view of the harbor or Camden Yards (the home baseball stadium of the Baltimore Orioles). Guests may check-in starting at 3 p.m. and must check-out by noon. AAA members and people who book their travel 21 days in advance receive discounted room rates.
Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel
300 South Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
410-962-8300
starwoodhotels.com
