Canton
An historic Baltimore neighborhood situated on the Chesapeake Bay, Canton is an ideal stop for travelers that want a dose of outdoor recreation and easy access to the waterfront. The hub of the neighborhood is Canton Square, a patch of green surrounded by sophisticated restaurants, galleries, and shops.
The basics
Canton is located on the Inner Harbor, close to Patterson Park and neighboring Fell's Point. Since the area is also only a few minutes’ drive from downtown, it's a great choice for dinner and nightlife—you can try one of the area's upscale pubs or seafood eateries. To make more of your time, book a hop-on hop-off city tour—many stop in nearby Fell's Point—or arrive early for a breezy jog along the Waterfront Promenade.
Things to know before you go
- Foodies shouldn't miss a classic Baltimore crab feast at one of the seafood restaurants off O’Donnell Square Park.
- To enjoy the waterfront—for a stroll, picnic, or fishing from the pier—head to the Canton Waterfront Park.
- History fans might appreciate the views of Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, just across the water.
- Baltimore Water Taxi stop 16 is conveniently located in Canton Waterfront Park, at the end of South Potomac Street.
How to get there
Canton is situated off Boston Street, on the eastern side of Baltimore's Inner Harbor. For a scenic route, take a water taxi to nearby Fell’s Point and Anchorage, a few streets west of Canton. You can also reach the neighborhood by bus, car, or on foot; it takes about five minutes to reach Canton by car from the Inner Harbor.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Though there's really no bad time to visit Canton, you get more out of exploring when the weather is pleasant—and not too humid—in late spring or early fall. Enjoy the waterfront's seasonal events, including the annual Blue Angels Air Show, and tall ships returning to the harbor. Foodies can enjoy the city’s signature seafood dishes at the Baltimore Seafood Festival, which takes place annually, each September.
How to Sightsee Around the Inner Harbor
No trip to Baltimore is complete without checking out the Inner Harbor. Though Canton's Waterfront Promenade offers great views, to see more in less time don't miss an Inner Harbor sightseeing tour. Harbor cruises typically pass the waterfront neighborhoods—including Canton and Fell's Point—as well as sights like the USS Constellation and National Aquarium. Tours typically depart from the Inner Harbor neighborhood, near West Shore Park, which is only a few minutes’ drive from Canton.
- Patterson Park
- Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
- Fell’s Point
- Baltimore Little Italy
- Star-Spangled Banner Flag House
- American Visionary Art Museum
- Baltimore Federal Hill
- Baltimore National Aquarium
- Hard Rock Café Baltimore
- Maryland Science Center
- Baltimore Inner Harbor
- Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum
- B&O Railroad Museum
- Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum
- Medieval Times Baltimore