It’s officially summer, so, get out of your (crab) shell and go explore Baltimore during the sunniest time of year.
If you just don’t know where to start, then take a look at our summer bucket list. Here’s how to summer in Baltimore:
Anything is Popsicle
Everyone in Baltimore knows that snowballs are far superior to shaved ice.
Since the 1800s, snowballs have been a great way to beat the hot and humid weather. Snowballs are made from shaved ice, but are chunkier than Italian ice—the ice isn’t too delicate, but not too chunky. Therefore, they don’t melt or “water down” easily.
In the Great Depression, snowballs, aka “penny sundaes,” became a Baltimore staple. Baltimoreans started to sweeten the ice with vanilla, eggs, and sugar. Today, this flavor is called “Egg Custard,” artificial flavoring often topped with melted marshmallow. And, there’s a snowball for everyone, from tutti frutti and raspberry, to margarita flavors.
Icequeens is one of the coolest snowballs in town. If you haven’t heard of them, Ice Queens is a local Black- and female-owned business. After working at a snowball stand for several years, Dasia Kabia decided to open her own business. It’s been over a year later, and her shop is thriving! Kabia models her snowballs after New Orleans, and even utilizes an authentic Louisian snowball machine from the 1920s. All of her flavors are vegan-friendly.
For traditional Baltimore snowballs, be sure to check out Icy Delights in Brewer’s Hill.
For gourmet snowballs, visit Quality Snowballs in Hampden.
Baltimore’s a Real Catch This Summer
Don’t miss this baseball season — the Baltimore Orioles are on fire!
The Orioles are playing the Yankees this upcoming Sunday on July 24th at 1:35 p.m. Don’t miss out on an awesome game, and a chance to give back to the Maryland Food Bank. Baseball fans are encouraged to bring canned goods or monetary donations in the Annual Food and Funds Drive.
You have to get a Stuggy’s hot dog whilst watching the game — and a Natty Boh, of course.
The Water Taxi is the Best Way to Get Around
Enjoy the summer breeze, and ride the Water Taxi for the best way to get around town this summer. Or, embark on one of their BYO twilight cruises for a memorable night out.
Would You Love to See More Films?
If so, see a free outdoor movie at Flicks on the Hill. Starting at sundown, the American Visionary Art Museum is playing films every Thursday from 5:00-9:00 p.m.
Get Served This Summer
Who doesn’t dig volleyball?
Come watch a game at Baltimore Beach and enjoy some harbor views. Or, drop in and play a game for yourself.
Feelin’ a Little Crabby?
Baltimore loves crabs! Crab picking is a rite-of-passage for Baltimoreans. Not only are crabs a popular summer attraction, but they’re topped with Baltimore’s most popular flavor; Old Bay!
Don’t miss out on the best place to get crabs — visit the Crab Deck at Captain James for delicious crabs and waterfront views.
Time to Get Into the Summer Spirit
Soak up the sun at these outdoor bars.
Little Havanas is a local restaurant centered around Cuban cuisine. If you like the summer heat, try their spicy margarita with jalapeño tequila. Or, cool down with their spiked huckleberry lemonade.
The Sandlot is back this season! With the sand and harbor views, they’re bringing the beach to Baltimore. Sandlot offers canned seltzers, margs, and beers. They’re also serving their infamous slushies and crushes.
Ouzo Beach is just steps away from the Promenade. Their outdoor bar is inspired by a Mediterranean villa. Oh, and don’t forget that it looks out over the inner harbor. Sip on their refreshing Phane’s Poison this summer, concocted with citron vodka, lime, honey, and basil.
Happy Summer
From The Promenade family to yours, we wish everyone a great summer! If you do take any of our summer suggestions, be sure to tag us in your photos, @ThePromenadeHE.