Baltimore Romantic Weekend Guide

Our Local Expert Says:

Something different to do other than the traditional B&B.

Description:

Book a personalized charter for yourself, and enjoy a sailing trip on this beauty. What better place to host an event for up to twenty, than at the bay! These people also offer a B&B accommodation, the only difference is that the former 'B' is replaced by 'boat', so take the pleasure of Boat and Breakfast at the Pintita. Check in before six in the evening, and check out by 10 in the morning. Enjoy the bliss of sailing in the night, under the starry sky and wake up in the morning to the sweet aroma of freshly prepared breakfast and the sea breeze at 9a. What's more, you can also take a sail training cruise if you are nautically inclined.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great way to enjoy nature in the Baltimore area.

Description:

You'll have to look for this one, but when you find it -- just off Northern Parkway, a quick run up the Jones Falls Expressway -- you'll be thrilled by the fascinating gardens and mansion. The 100-plus acres include a formal Victorian garden, children's garden, and gardens devoted to butterflies, shade, roses, and vegetables. Woodland trails wind 2.5 miles through the forests of Cylburn. Among the 161 bird species spotted here have been the Baltimore oriole and bald eagle. The ornate stone house with mansard roof and cupola has an equally ornate interior, with inlaid floors, mosaics, and plasterwork. The Maryland Ornithological Society's bird museum and a nature museum for children are in a carriage house behind the mansion. Tucked in the woods off I-83, Cylburn makes for a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Our Local Expert Says:

Any business lasting in the area for over 100 years must be good!

Description:

Operating in the Inner Harbor since the turn of the 19th century, this salon has perfected its craft. Keeping the people of Baltimore beautiful and healthy requires expertise in skin, hair, nails and body treatment methods. Monica's also offers massage and reflexology to pamper you in their relaxed and stylish location.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great way to kill two birds with one stone: eat, dance, and cruise the Chesapeake all for one price.

Description:

Eating on the move acquires a different meaning when you board any of the yachts of the Harbor Cruises. Grab a few bites as Prince Charming, Bay Lady and Lady Baltimore welcome you aboard. The rates are reasonable, the food is splendid and you're encouraged to drink-after all that's a sea farer's prerogative! Special events are planned all throughout the year. For instance, you can charm your better half aboard the Bay Lady or the Lady Baltimore on a Valentine Dinner Cruise in February. You can simply walk in with a friend during the non-peak days. However, it is recommended that you book in advance if you're arriving with a large group during summer. You can do a group booking or a private charter booking, preferably reserving a few months in advance for special days.

Description:

If you have time, visit both Evergreen and Homewood (they're 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, the five-part classic Palladian home is a dazzling example of Federal architecture. Its interiors boast superb woodcarving and plaster ornamentation. 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. Tours, offered on the half hour, last 45 minutes. Changing exhibits in the main hall focus on the decorative arts or architecture.