Baltimore sights and lodging
 

I am planning to spend 1 day and 1 night in Baltimore. Any suggestions on the best way to use the time and where to stay? We are particularly interested in things that would interest a 13 year old who has just finished studying early American history (through War of 1812.)

Maybe not what you are looking for, but we live in northern Virginia (approx. one hour away), and make a trip up to Baltimore about once a month to eat in Little Italy. Some of the best Italian restaurants I know of! Our favorite is Sabbatino's. Casual dining and GREAT food. Great even for lunch! For dessert, we usually walk over to Vacarro's Bakery. THe best desserts in town with tables for you to sit down. Oh- a great place for a thirteen year old is the Baltimore Aquarium. One of the best in the country AND in walking distance of Little Italy. Enjoy!

Fort McHenry, I would suggest you do a web search for more information

Baltimore is a wonderful place to visit, <BR>I suggest maybe taking in an Orioles game, and definitly a walk around the <BR>Inner Harbor and Fells point, many great shops and restaurants. The aquarium is <BR>a great place to go, there is also a fairly new place called Port Discovery <BR>that is supposed to be alot of fun for the kids. I suggest the Hyatt (410-528-1234) or the Holiday Inn (410-685-3500). As far as restaurants, you will find everything you can think of, my choice is Phillips Harborplace <BR>(wonderful seafood!) also check out Planet Hollywood (if you've never been to one). Take one of the water taxi's to Fort McHenry. I hope this info. helps, <BR>enjoy your stay here.

I agree with Paddy and Karyn. In case your history is a bit cloudy, Ft. McHenry is where Francis Scott Key viewed a battle and wrote the Star Spangled Banner.(I had forgotten its significance) It is free to go into the visitors center and watch a film, but there is a small charge to go inside the Fort property. We took a Harbour Cruise, and it stopped there. Also, take advantage of the water taxis and ride around the Harbour. Annapolis is a short drive, and you can visit the Naval Academy.