| Official name | City of Baltimore |
| Type | Independent city |
| Baltimore skyline and Inner Harbor | |
| State | Maryland |
| Country | United States |
| Established | 1729 |
| Population | 575,000 |
| Area (km²) | 239 |
| Time zone | Eastern (EST/EDT) |
| ZIP code(s) | 21201–21298 |
| Area code(s) | 410, 443, 667 |
Baltimore is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Maryland and an independent city — meaning it is not part of any county. Located on the Patapsco River in the Chesapeake Bay region, Baltimore is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, historic port, and distinctive neighborhoods.
Overview
- Founded in 1729 and named after Lord Baltimore of the Irish House of Lords
- Once the second-leading port of entry for immigrants after New York
- Known as “Charm City” for its diverse architecture, people, and culture
Landmarks and Attractions
- Inner Harbor – Baltimore’s waterfront entertainment and museum district
- Fort McHenry – where the Star-Spangled Banner was written during the War of 1812
- National Aquarium – one of the most visited aquariums in the U.S.
- Camden Yards – home of the Baltimore Orioles
- Walters Art Museum and American Visionary Art Museum
History
- A key city during the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War
- Major shipbuilding and steel center in the 19th and 20th centuries
- Birthplace of American national anthem and home to historic African American communities
Culture
- Diverse neighborhoods: Fells Point, Mount Vernon, Federal Hill, Hampden
- Famous for blue crabs and Old Bay seasoning
- Home of poet Edgar Allan Poe and jazz legend Eubie Blake
- Strong arts and music culture, and a hub for indie creators
Economy
- Key sectors: healthcare, education, government, and logistics
- Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Hospital are top employers
- Port of Baltimore is one of the largest deep-water ports in the U.S.
Education
- **Johns Hopkins University** – world-renowned for medicine and research
- University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
Transportation
- Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
- MARC train and Amtrak service connect to Washington, D.C. and beyond
- I-95, I-83, and I-695 (Baltimore Beltway)
Fun Facts
- First American city to illuminate streets with gas lanterns
- The USS Constellation in Baltimore is the last Civil War-era ship afloat
- Home to the first American umbrella factory