The unique exhibits of the American Visionary Art Museum delight all ages with whimsical creations by talented artists without formal art training. Eleanor Berman / Travel Arts Syndicate

Fells Point, the oldest port area in the city, still looks remarkably like the salty seafaring and shipbuilding community that was laid out in 1763, with cobbled streets and many well-preserved period homes. Eleanor Berman / Travel Arts Syndicate

The bombardment of Fort McHenry by the mighty British fleet in 1814 threatened the city of Baltimore. But the out-manned defenders fought off the attackers, proudly hoisting the flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the "Star Spangled Banner." Ken Stanek / Visit Baltimore

Visitors to Fort McHenry in Baltimore are invited to help unfurl and hoist when the flag is changed daily at 9:30 a.m. or 4:20 p.m. The flags are replicas of the 15 stars and stripes banner that flew over the fort during the War of 1812, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write the "Star Spangled Banner." Eleanor Berman / Travel Arts Syndicate

Baltimore's Inner Harbor and aquarium are among the most successful urban renewal areas in the country. They have turned this part of the city into a tourist mecca. Eleanor Berman / Travel Arts Syndicate

Admission to Baltimore's new National Pinball Museum includes the chance to play on these nostalgic machines in the upstairs Pinhead Gallery, where close to 40 vintage machines are available. Eleanor Berman / Travel Arts Syndicate