“Some cities make history. Baltimore writes it in bold letters across the sky.”
From the roar of British cannons over Fort McHenry to the quiet scratch of Edgar Allan Poe’s pen, Baltimore has long been a place where big stories take shape, from revolution to civil rights. This harbor city launched towering figures like Frederick Douglass, who rose from bondage to become a leading abolitionist and advisor to presidents, and Babe Ruth, whose legend began in a humble Baltimore rowhouse near Oriole Park.
If you love American history, waterfront walks and a dash of mystery, a Baltimore tour belongs at the top of your road trip list. Here, you can stand in the city that inspired “The Star Spangled Banner” at Fort McHenry, follow in Douglass’s footsteps in Fells Point, and explore neighborhoods where brick streets, old warehouses and harbor views tell stories of merchants, shipbuilders and immigrants. From historic pubs and churches to battle tested forts and ballparks, “things to do in Baltimore” quickly turn into “stories you will tell for years.”
With ACTION TOUR GUIDE’s Historical Baltimore Self Guided Driving Tour, your phone becomes a local storyteller, using GPS on a flexible drive to trigger immersive audio as you go so you can explore at your own pace without missing the city’s best stories or getting stuck to a tight schedule.
One moment you might be at Fort McHenry, imagining rockets streaking over the harbor as Francis Scott Key watches the flag stubbornly flying at dawn. A short drive away, the tour takes you through Fells Point and the working waterfront where Frederick Douglass once labored in shipyards before his daring escape, then onward to sites that share his rise as an author, orator and abolitionist. In town, Baltimore’s baseball heritage comes alive around Babe Ruth’s birthplace and Camden Yards, where echoes of early sandlot games meet modern crowds, while downtown streets lead you to the historic Fell’s Point and Inner Harbor area with cobblestones, piers and skyline views that tie the past to the present.
You also dive into Baltimore’s more mysterious side at an old time saloon linked with tales of Edgar Allan Poe’s final days, hear about his life and the enduring questions surrounding his death, and pass churches, monuments and historic districts that reveal how this port shaped the nation. The tour keeps you behind the wheel yet in the story, turning each stop into a vivid chapter rather than a rushed photo op.
Warning for curious travelers: this Baltimore driving tour may cause sudden urges to recite poetry, hum the national anthem off key and debate which local legend had the wildest life story. Other known side effects include an overstuffed camera roll, unusually high step counts around the harbor and a powerful need to plan your next self guided audio adventure before you even leave the parking lot.
- Get more ideas on what to do on the Baltimore Travel Guide.
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Nearby Tours
Baltimore Map
Where To Start?
Starting Point Address: Baltimore Visitor Center, 401 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21202, United States
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good Wi-Fi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Baltimore Audio Tour Stops
Things to do on the Tour Include:
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Baltimore Visitor Center
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Parking Near Baltimore Harbor
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Baltimore Harbor
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USS Constellation
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National Aquarium
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Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse
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Mr Trash Wheel
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Head back To Car
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Turn Right on E Pratt Street
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Continue Straight
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Turn Right on President street
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National Katyn Memorial
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Roundabout Ahead: Fourth Exit
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The “Paris of America”
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Find Parking on the left
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Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park
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The Horse You Came In On Saloon
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Fells Point
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Frederick Douglass, Women's Rights and Abraham Lincoln
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Back to the car
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Douglass Place
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Reginald F. Lewis Museum
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Turn Left on East Fayette Street
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Baltimore City Hall
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Washington Monument
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Poe's Grave and the Poe Toaster
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Baltimore is known for its historical significance, including being the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner during the War of 1812.
Yes, Baltimore is worth visiting for its diverse cultural attractions, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, Baltimore is considered a historic city due to its role in American history, from its involvement in the American Revolution to its maritime heritage.
Baltimore is known for its iconic seafood dishes, with Maryland blue crab and crab cakes being particularly famous.
Baltimore earned the nickname “The Greatest City in America” due to its unique blend of history, culture, and character that resonates with its residents and visitors.
Baltimore is referred to as “Charm City” because of its welcoming atmosphere and friendly residents.
Baltimore has its pros and cons as a place to live, offering a mix of cultural attractions and challenges related to crime and urban development.
Yes, Baltimore is a significant city in terms of population and urban development.
Yes, Baltimore experiences snowfall during the winter months, with varying amounts each year.
Baltimore is renowned for its seafood delicacies, including the famous Maryland crab cake made from crab meat and seasonings.


