Travel to Charm City
Baltimore, Maryland, is a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural diversity, particularly within its vibrant African American community. For Black travelers and those who appreciate Black culture, Baltimore offers a wealth of destinations that celebrate African American heritage, creativity, and entrepreneurship.Despite what you may have heard on the news, the city features everything from historic museums and dynamic markets to innovative restaurants and delightful dessert spots. These must-visit places showcase the rich contributions of Black-owned businesses and cultural institutions in Baltimore along with a resilience and vibrance that is rarely advertised. This guide will help you discover some of the best places to visit in Baltimore, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.
If you want to stay somewhere nice on your trip to Charm City, The Ivy Hotel, a luxurious boutique hotel in Baltimore, offers an oasis of elegance and comfort. This Black-owned hotel, housed in a historic mansion, features 18 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with a blend of classic and contemporary styles. Guests can enjoy world-class amenities, including a full-service spa, gourmet dining at Magdalena Restaurant, and personalized concierge services. The Ivy Hotel is renowned for its exceptional hospitality and attention to detail, making it a perfect choice for a luxurious getaway. As one of Baltimore’s premier accommodations, The Ivy Hotel provides an unparalleled experience of sophistication and charm from its center city location.
The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum is a unique cultural institution that brings history to life through its lifelike wax figures. Established in 1983, this museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of African Americans through meticulously crafted wax sculptures. The exhibits span over 5,000 years of history, showcasing influential figures from ancient African civilizations to modern-day leaders. The museum also addresses critical issues such as slavery, segregation, and civil rights, providing a comprehensive and immersive educational experience. This Baltimore gem offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the past and gain insights into the lives and contributions of notable African Americans.
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture stands as a beacon of African American heritage in Baltimore. Located near the Inner Harbor, the museum offers an extensive array of exhibits that delve into the rich history and culture of African Americans in Maryland and beyond. The museum is named after Reginald F. Lewis, a prominent African American lawyer and businessman whose legacy inspires its mission. Visitors can explore captivating exhibitions on topics ranging from the Civil Rights Movement to contemporary African American art. The museum also hosts engaging programs, lectures, events, and regularly rotates its exhibits giving a fresh a new take with repeated visits.
Lexington Market, a historic marketplace in the heart of Baltimore, is a vibrant hub of culinary diversity and cultural richness. Among its many vendors are several notable Black-owned businesses that highlight the market’s dynamic offerings. Black Acres Roastery, for instance, is celebrated for its meticulously sourced and roasted coffees, providing a caffeine boost with delicious drinks that delight locals and visitors alike. Taharka Brothers, an ice cream company known for its creative flavors and social mission, offers a delicious way to support community initiatives at its Lexington Market Scoop Shop. Fleurs D’ave adds a touch of elegance with its stunning floral arrangements. Lexington Market serves not just as a food destination but as a community cornerstone and Landmark in Baltimore City.
Papi Cuisine is a standout in Baltimore’s culinary scene, known for its bold fusion of Caribbean and Creole flavors. Founded by Chef Alex Perez, the restaurant has garnered a massive following on social media. However it’s not just online where the restaurant is popular thanks to its innovative dishes and vibrant dining atmosphere. Signature items like the Lobster Mac & Cheese and the Jerk Lamb Chops have made Papi Cuisine a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking unique and flavorful experiences. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and creativity has solidified its reputation as a premier dining destination in Baltimore. Recently, they also released a line of cooking oils, seasoning blend and bread crumbs so that you can bring a bit of Papi Cuisine into your own home.
Ice Queens is a delightful dessert spot in Baltimore that specializes in snowballs, a beloved local treat. Founded by Lakesha Brown-Renfro, Ice Queens brings a modern twist to this classic dessert, offering a variety of flavors and toppings that cater to all tastes. It’s easy to get a classic egg custard flavored snowball, but step it up and add fresh fruit or gummy candy as toppings. Beyond snowballs, the shop also serves beignets and other sweet treats like cobbler, making it a go-to South Baltimore destination for satisfying dessert cravings. Ice Queens is known for its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere and commitment to community engagement, often participating in local events and initiatives. Whether you’re a longtime snowball fan or new to this icy delight, Ice Queens offers a refreshing and delicious experience in the heart of Baltimore.
Cajou Creamery, founded by Nicole and Dwight Campbell, is revolutionizing the dessert scene in Baltimore with its plant-based ice creams. Located in West Baltimore, this Black-owned creamery offers a delightful array of vegan ice cream flavors inspired by global tastes, such as Mexican Hot Chocolate and Baklava. Committed to using high-quality, natural ingredients without any artificial additives, the shop’s mission goes beyond just serving delicious treats; it also focuses on sustainability and social consciousness, providing healthy dessert options to the community. Whether you’re vegan or just an ice cream lover, Cajou Creamery offers a unique and satisfying experience. You can also order a taste of Cajou Creamery to your door as well.
Sumayyah Bilal’s Codetta Bake Shop is a beloved bakery in Baltimore known for its delectable cakes, cupcakes, and pastries. Started in the Fall of 2020 and working out of a commercial kitchen owned by Mindpub Cafe, this Black-owned business recently moved to a new location downtown where it continues to delight customers with its creative and beautifully crafted baked goods. The bakery offers a wide range of flavors and designs, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a special event or just craving something sweet, Codetta Bake Shop is a must-visit destination for dessert lovers.
Ekiben, co-founded by Steve Chu, Ephrem Abebe, and Nick Suman, has become a culinary sensation in Baltimore with its Asian fusion steamed buns and rice bowls. What started as a modest food truck has grown into a beloved restaurant known for its flavorful and innovative dishes. Signature items like the Tempura Broccoli Bun and Taiwanese Curry Fried Chicken have made Ekiben a standout in the city’s vibrant food scene. Their buns, bowls and sides are a great fusion of Asian cuisine, comfort food, and the best innovation from Baltimore. The restaurant’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and bold flavors, combined with a fun and casual dining atmosphere, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With three locations in the Baltimore area, you can get your Ekiben fix in multiple ways.
Berries by Quicha is a delightful dessert boutique in Baltimore specializing in gourmet chocolate-covered strawberries and other berry treats. Founded by Quicha Fraser, this Black-owned business has grown from a home-based operation to a thriving storefront. Berries by Quicha offers beautifully decorated and customized berry arrangements, perfect for gifts, events, or personal indulgence. Quicha’s attention to detail and commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients have earned her a loyal customer base and numerous accolades. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, Berries by Quicha provides a luxurious and delicious experience and is another great business in the South Baltimore area between Camden Yards and Federal Hill.
Crust by Mack, founded by Amanda Mack, is a bakery that combines delicious treats with a mission of social justice. Located in Baltimore, this Black-owned bakery offers a variety of sweet and savory items, including their famous quiches and hand pies, the most famous one being their “Crab Pie”. Amanda Mack, a former pastry chef at Woodberry Kitchen, has turned her passion for baking into a business that not only delights the taste buds but also gives back to the community. The bakery’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and supporting social causes makes Crust by Mack a standout in Baltimore’s culinary scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a buttery croissant or a decadent dessert, Crust by Mack promises a delightful experience. You can visit them currently in Baltimore’s Harbor Place pavilion as you check out the Inner Harbor.
Another Black Owned busienss that you can find in the Harbor Place pavilion is Matriarch Coffee. The café at Harborplace serves as a community hub where patrons can enjoy expertly brewed coffee, attend events, and participate in coffee-related workshops. The coffee itself features Rwandan beans roasted for the best quality and flavor. But don’t think that’s all you’re going to get because Matriarch also has the bagels, sandwiches and wraps that you need to power through your sightseeing or your workday.
Rooted Rotisserie, brings a taste of French-inspired rotisserie chicken to Baltimore. This Black-owned eatery focuses on simple, flavorful dishes made with high-quality ingredients. The star of the menu is their succulent rotisserie chicken, but they have more to offer than just that. This restaurant is also one that suggests you bring your own wine to pair with your meal making it great for date night. Rooted Rotisserie’s commitment to quality and community is evident in their approach to food and service. For a comforting and satisfying meal that feels like home, Rooted Rotisserie is a must-visit in Baltimore.
Blacksauce Kitchen, led by chef Damian Mosley, is a beloved Baltimore mobile food business known for its inventive and flavorful biscuits. Specializing in Southern-inspired cuisine, Blacksauce Kitchen offers a menu that changes weekly, featuring famous buttermilk biscuits, smoked meats, seasonal sides and delicately designed entrees. The food has gained a loyal following for its dedication to high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. Blacksauce Kitchen’s emphasis on creativity and community has made it a staple in Baltimore’s food scene and leads to its long lines at the weekly Baltimore Farmer’s market. For a unique and delicious culinary experience, look out for Blacksauce Kitchen at local markets and events as well as their storefront on 29th Street.
The Urban Oyster, founded by Jasmine Norton, is a Black-owned seafood restaurant that brings the taste of the Chesapeake Bay to Baltimore. It also happens to be the first oyster bar to be owned by a Black Woman or Woman period in Maryland. Located in Locust Point, the restaurant specializes in fresh oysters and other seafood delicacies. Jasmine Norton, one of the few Black female oyster shuckers in the country, combines her passion for seafood with a commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. For a taste of Baltimore’s seafood heritage, The Urban Oyster is the place to be.
Teavolve is a charming café in Baltimore’s Harbor East that offers a wide selection of teas, coffees, and delicious brunch items. Founded by Sunni Gilliam, Teavolve provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere where patrons can enjoy everything from bubble tea to gourmet sandwiches. The café is known for its extensive tea menu, which features both classic and exotic blends, as well as its commitment to quality and community. Teavolve also hosts live music events, adding to its vibrant and welcoming ambiance. For the past 15 years, Teavolve has provided a relaxing and enjoyable café experience for everyone.
Buns & Roses Chimney Cakes is a unique bakery in Baltimore’s Federal Hill, specializing in traditional Hungarian chimney cakes. This Black-owned bakery offers a variety of chimney cakes filled with sweet flavors. The dough is baked fresh to order, creating a warm and crispy treat that can be enjoyed plain or filled with delicious options like Nutella, strawberries, and whipped cream. They also offer espresso, soft serve and banana pudding. Adeirdra Campbell’s shop has quickly become a local favorite because of its uniqueness and friendly service. For a unique and tasty treat, Buns & Roses Chimney Cakes is a must-visit location in Charm City.
Baltimore’s rich culture and thriving African American community make it a compelling destination for Black travelers and anyone interested in exploring Black culture. From the profound historical exhibits at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum and the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum to the classic and refreshed culinary experiences at Lexington Market and Papi Cuisine, Baltimore offers a wealth of unique and impactful experiences. Additional gems like Cajou Creamery, The Ivy Hotel, and Codetta Bake Shop provide diverse and delightful experiences that showcase the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the city’s Black community. And these are just the tip of the iceberg because there are many more great Black owned businesses in Baltimore that are helping to change the city’s image. By visiting these spots, you support the growth and recognition of Black culture and entrepreneurship in Baltimore, ensuring your trip is both meaningful and unforgettable.
