Population: 651,154

Elevation: 100 feet above sea level

Land Area: 80.8 square miles

Location: Located in the eastern section of Maryland, approximately 40 miles north of Washington D.C. Baltimore is located near Interstate Highways 95, 70, 695, and 795

Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (When its noon in Baltimore, its 11am in Chicago and 9am in Los Angeles). Baltimore observes Daylight Savings Time from April - October

Weather:

As both a major business center as well as a tourist destination, the city is alive with activity all year.  Summer does tend to be busier as a result of tourists from around the world visiting the many historic sites, attractions, and neighborhoods of the city as well as those located in nearby Washington, D.C.  Also, each year in May visitors flock to the area for the annual running of the Preakness Stakes, the middle jewel in horse racing's Triple Crown.  With the summer average temperatures in the mid 70s F, its a perfect time to enjoy any of the numerous outdoor activities available.  Spring and fall bring a wealth of additional color to the area.  In the spring, the area comes alive with new blossoms abounding throughout the beautiful neighborhoods.  As fall arrives, the city transforms into an array of reds, browns, gold, and orange colors as the foliage season makes its annual appearance.  Winters can be chilly, but not too cold.  Snow can be seen anytime from November until March, transforming the city into a postcard scene.  Its also a great time for a warm drink by a roaring fire in one of the citys many fine restaurants.  Whatever the reason and whatever the season, Baltimore awaits with a warm smile and weather to match the season.

How to Get There:

By Air

Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI)

Exit 2 off Baltimore-Washington Pkwy.

Baltimore, MD

410-859-7100

Located 10 miles south of downtown Baltimore, the airport is served by many of the national and international airlines as well as certain local and regional carriers.  It is located off of Interstate 295.

Ground Transportation:

All of the major car rental companies are available at the airport as well as at locations throughout the city.  In addition, taxi and limousine service is available at the airport.

By Car

Interstate 95 provides the easiest access to the city from the north and south.  From the west, Interstate 70 is the most convenient. 

By Train

Amtrak city

1515 North Charles Street
Penn Station
Baltimore, MD 21201

800-USA-RAIL

Amtrak airport

7 Amtrak Way
BWI Airport
Baltimore, MD 21240

800-USA-RAIL

By Bus

Greyhound - downtown

2110 Haines St.
Baltimore, MD 21201

410-752-7682

Greyhound Travel Plaza
5625 O Donnell St.
Baltimore, MD 21224

410-633-6389

How to Get Around:

Due to many of the major attractions being located and clustered together around the Inner Harbor, it is often easiest to walk.  Parking is readily available.  For all other attractions and sites, a personal or rental car is advisable.  In addition, trolley, subway, and bus service are also available:

Light Rail Trolley Service

800-543-9809

A 27 mile trolley system that travels both north and south from the suburb of Timonium to Glen Burnie.  It also has a spur to Penn Station.

Metro Subway

410-539-5000

A subway system that connects downtown with the northwest suburbs.

MTA Bus Service

800-543-9809

An extensive bus service that connects most areas in and around the city.

National Holidays:

New Year's Day Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President's Day 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day last Mon. in May

Independence Day July 4

Labor Day 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dec. 24 and 25

New Year's Eve Dec. 31