Get on the water with a group paddle at Middle Branch Park ( far left ) or a kidfriendly excursion with Urban Pirates ( left ).
ticks all these boxes and more . It ’ s a network of water trails and public access points for non-motorized crafts like kayaks , canoes and paddleboats that connects cultural , historic and natural sights within a three-mile waterfront radius . The Inner Harbor Kayak Launch allows kayakers and paddleboaters to easily and safely enter the water near popular attractions such as the Maryland Science Center and the American Visionary Art Museum .
There are several trails for paddlers to pick from that vary in difficulty and view . The 2.5-mile Middle Branch loop is perfect for beginners and birdwatchers as it offers glimpses of osprey , egrets , heron and bald eagles . The Inner Harbor North Shore Loop is a moderately challenging 5.5-mile loop and the Patapsco River Trail is 7.5 miles roundtrip and more suitable for very experienced paddlers .
If you don ’ t have your own equipment , you can opt to take a guided kayak tour led by Waterfront Partnership on Sundays in the warmer months . The Baltimore City Department of Recreation & Parks also organizes regular group paddles launching from the Baltimore Rowing Center at Middle Branch Park .
If you ’ re looking for a leisurely activity , head over to the Inner Harbor and choose a Chessie dragon paddle boat just outside the World Trade Center building . They ’ re managed by Living Classrooms Foundation , which uses the enterprise to support its job training programs for local youth .
A lower-effort alternative are the electric-powered pirate ships . Designed with the environment in mind , they operate on lithium-ion batteries and are fueled by solar energy .
Large groups can party on Baltimore ’ s first and only pontoon pedal boat operated by Sea Suite ’ s Paddle Club . The 30-foot catamaran-style boat has 10 cycling stations , coolers ,
USB charging stations and Bluetooth speakers to keep you and up to 19 guests entertained . Don ’ t worry about running out of steam — the boat has a motor to keep the party going .
For a relaxing and educational waterfront excursion , book a narrated cruise around the Inner Harbor with Hornblower or Watermark . Discover Baltimore history and get unparalleled looks at top attractions like Fort McHenry and the Domino Sugar Factory .
Travel back in time and explore the Inner Harbor like a pirate aboard Fearless , a modern pirate ship that sails out of the Ann Street Pier in Fell ’ s Point . Urban Pirates offers a kid-friendly voyage as well as a “ B . Y . O . G ” ( bring your own grog ) affair for adults 21 and up .
Those who prefer to stay on dry land can head to Rash Field Park , which offers everything from a kid-friendly playground with two 30-foot-high towers to a modern skate park . For the best views of the harbor , find a seat on one of the park ’ s porch swings or head to the top of the glass pavilion . End the day with dinner at nearby Rusty Scupper or Little Havana , both of which have prime waterfront locations .
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