Baltimore, Maryland, has flown under the radar for many years, but travellers are beginning to wonder about this unique historic city, the birthplace of poet Edgar Allan Poe. Full of genteel parks, museums and galleries and packed with stunning architecture it is more than worth a visit.
Hotels like Lord Baltimore are perfect examples of the late Art Nouveau/ Early Art Deco era and are recognizable from TV giants like House of Cards and The Wire.
From intimate chic boutiques to a modern design and very Instgrammable hotels, here are a collection of cool and unusual hotels in Baltimore (in no particular order)...
Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
1.
![]() 2.
![]() 3.
![]() |
Hotel Revival Baltimore
This is an amazing 107-room boutique art hotel in downtown Baltimore. Built on the site of Philanthropist Mary Elizabeth Garrett’s mansion, Hotel Revival Baltimore strives to honor her passion for art by presenting stunning mid-century modern rooms bedecked by local Baltimore artists and by offering space to nonprofits.
The hotel’s philanthropy is even reflected in its choice to use local black female-owned company Lor Tush to supply their sustainable bamboo toilet paper and local, ethically sourced Black Acres Roastery for their coffee.
The hip and trendy hotel is beautiful and luxurious, ideally located close to art galleries, shops and museums, and actively strives to promote and support the community in which it lies. It’s an excellent choice for your Baltimore debut.
Pros
Upscale boutique-style hotel
Mid-century modern rooms
Chic Renaissance Revival facade
French-influenced American Restaurant
Cons
Limited parking availability
Food is a little pricey
Slow elevator
Ulysses
Classic meets quirky in the newest hotel in Baltimore from the cultish Ash group, in a 1912 building inspired by the Italian Renaissance. The location in the Mount Vernon district is steps away from the area’s hip new restaurants, the Walters Art Museum and the Peabody Library.
Themes of luxury, not to say decadence, and travel predominate in the interiors with European antiques, fabrics and furnishings from Turkey and India, and the Ash bar dining room that looks like it came out of the steam trains and ocean liners of the Roaring Twenties. A major draw for guests and locals alike is Bloom’s cocktail lounge, which serves up cocktails and events in an opulent setting.
The rooms continue the ‘20s house party theme with Italian mirrors and space for dancing, and many have stocked snack bars and handily located clawfoot tubs.
Pros
Vintage-chic interiors
Luxurious European antiques
Unique Ash bar dining room
20s house party-themed rooms
Cons
No Parking
Limited Closet Space
No Pool
The Ivy Hotel
The Ivy Hotel is small but perfectly formed. Its 18 unique rooms and suites are impeccably luxurious, except draped four-poster beds, working fireplaces, heated floors, and beautifully curated antique furniture.
Thoughtfully selected soft furnishings create opulent yet cosy spaces that are in keeping with the Art Nouveau bones of the historic building. It’s ’Mi Casa Su Casa’ here at the Ivy, and guests are encouraged to really get their feel under the priceless Moroccan carpet and make themselves at home.
Play billiards, borrow a book from the library, have a go on the piano, light a fire in the hearth and settle in. There is a communal ‘pour your own’ bar and a fully stocked minibar in each room, all included in the price.
Magdalena Bistro offers guests locally sourced cuisine that puts a Baltimore twist on classic British and European dishes. This is very far from a budget option, but if you have the cash to splash I thoroughly recommend you splash it in this direction.
Pros
Upscale 19th-century mansion
Art Nouveau-inspired decor
Vintage antique furniture
Working fireplaces
Cons
No 24/7 room service
Slow wifi
Not for all ages
Sagamore Pendry Baltimore
This fabulous re-working of an early 20th-century site on the historic Recreation Pier is more of a resort than a hotel.
Within the complex is an amazing infinity pool with views over the harbor, a whisky bar replete with ancient canons, a delicious Chop House steered by Italian Chef Andrew Carmellini, and multiple impeccably thought-out communal spaces where guests can relax and unwind.
There are also extensive wellness resources and unique access to various outdoor pursuits at Sagamore Pendry Baltimore.
The rooms are spacious, comfortable and considerately designed with the pleasure of the guest in mind! A wonderful vacation experience in Fell Point, one of the city’s most historic districts.
Pros
Trendy historic conversion
Infinity pool with harbor views
Whisky bar with character
Italian Chef's Chop House
Cons
Not budget-friendly
Faint noise from outside
Some rooms are dark
Jurny, Brexton Hotel
This is definitely one of Baltimore’s most iconic hotels, as the 1868 Queen Anne-style building went through its fair share of strife before it was finally rescued and restored to its original glory in the noughties and reopened in 2009.
Now the Jurny – Brexton Hotel stands proudly at the intersection of Tyson Street and Park Avenue in the historic Mount Vernon district, a strange triangular-shaped building whose unusual exterior is reflected by some unique interior features, such as the five-story spiral staircase in the North Turret.
During the early 1900s, it was home to Bessie Wallis Warfield, who would later win the heart of King Edward VIII of England and cause him to renounce his throne.
The hotel now has 29 boutique rooms and suites, which contain all the modern amenities while maintaining a respectful nod to the past. The hotel is presided over by some of the friendliest staff you’ll meet, who go out of their way to make you feel at home.
The atmosphere is cosy and warm in all senses of the word, and if you are a lover of history, I won’t pass up a chance to stay in this gorgeous historical monument in one of the best neighborhoods in town!
Pros
Historic redbrick charm
Unique interior design
Former home of Wallis Simpson
Boutique rooms and suites
Cons
Check in can be slow
Thin Walls
No wellness centre
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore
Hotel Monaco is a grand hotel set within the walls of the historic Beaux-Arts B&O Railway headquarters. 65 million was invested into renovating this landmark building in Central Harbour and much care has been taken to honour the splendour of the original place.
Towering ceilings, spiral staircases and Tiffany glass windows and chandeliers are just some of the nods to the past that you’ll find here.
The B&O restaurant even offers guests the opportunity to dine as first-class railway travelers might have dined back in 1906. The rooms and suites are a charming blend of old-world elegance and modern luxury, with lots of warm welcoming colours and thoughtful touches to make it feel special.
A lovely hotel in an excellent location and perfect base for exploring the city.
Pros
Grand Beaux-Arts building
Luxurious historic charm
Elegant rooms with modern comfort
Chandeliers in the hallway
Cons
No vending machines
No fridge in the room
No 24/7 room service
Canopy By Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point
Water Babies should love this one, which is situated on the water’s edge, between Inner Harbour and Fells Point.
This modern hotel will please anyone who enjoys clean lines and Hygge-type decor, which blends cosy charm with space to breathe. The predominantly glass building offers views from most angles, and the outdoor dining patio has the best of them all.
You can enjoy free local wine and beer tasting in the bar and then relax and unwind in a spacious and comfortable room with plenty of thoughtful touches to make you feel valued.
Pros
Contemporary artistic design
Hygge-inspired decor
Outdoor dining patio
Free local wine tasting
Cons
No pool
No microwave in the room
Limited Breakfast menu
Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel
The airy, light-filled interiors capture the look and feel of the waterfront and match the location right across the street from the Inner Harbor. The site is convenient for the Convention Center, museums and other destinations in the area, whether you’re traveling for work or play.
Within, you’ll find all the trappings of luxury and comfort and staff who will go out of their way to make your stay pleasant and comfortable. Many of the spacious rooms have harbor views, and all are equipped with necessities like coffee makers, iPod docking stations, Aveda bath products, refrigerators and stemless wine glasses.
The Watertable Restaurant has amazing water views and serves breakfast and dinner with a menu featuring the seafood for which Baltimore is famous, and there is a cafe and bar on the ground floor.
Pros
Stylish modern interior
Spacious rooms with views
Convenient Inner Harbor location
On-site restaurant with water views
Cons
Expensive dining options
WiFi is extra
Only valet parking
Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown
Like all Hotel Indigo’s this one reflects the unique character of the neighborhood in which it is situated! Rooms feature Spa-style en-suite and literary murals in homage to Baltimore’s most famous legacy, Edgar Allan Poe.
The Poets Bar and Restaurant at Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown serves delicious locally sourced seasonal food and cocktails, which you can enjoy at a reduced price during the daily happy hour. The hotel occupies a stunning historic building just a stone’s throw from the best galleries and museums in town; the decor is a vibrant and colorful twist on mid-century modern that blends perfectly with the 1930s details of the interior.
The friendly staff will do whatever they can to accommodate your needs and make your stay memorable in all the right ways. This is also a pet-friendly hotel; canine friends are welcome and can enjoy dog treats and sniff n’ strolls in the Howard Dog Park.
A great place from which to explore the cobbled streets and Culture of the Mount Vernon/ Downtown district.
Pros
Cool creative design
Vibrant mid-century decor
Literary-themed rooms
Cons
Noise from the downtown area
Room service can be slow
Four Seasons Baltimore
From the outside, this is an ultra-modern soaring glass tower on Harbour East, the luxurious rooms at Four Seasons Baltimore are furnished in cosy mid-century modern with an exceptional indoor/ outdoor aspect and uninterrupted views of the harbour and the city beyond.
The hotel prides itself on being a tranquil escape in the lap of luxury. There is a rooftop pool, a fully equipped spa with a Finnish sauna, relaxation rooms, and an aromatherapy steam room are included with all treatments.
Dining is provided by Maximon, which serves contemporary Mexican cuisine; the Poolside Bar and Grill, for laid-back drinks and cocktails or a taste of the roaring 20s, head for The Bygone cocktail bar at the top of the hotel. This Hotel is sleek, chic, and not for the low budget… the perfect treat.
Pros
Famous glass-fronted hotel
Stunning harbour views
Chic mid-century decor
Rooftop pool
Cons
Limited onsite dining
Faint noise from the pool area
Spa can be expensive
Lord Baltimore Hotel
If you want to feel like Royalty on a modest budget, then this hotel is perfect for you! Room rates start at a completely reasonable $80.75! Not bad, considering you get to stay in one of the city’s most beautiful historic buildings! At its inception in 1928 The Lord Baltimore was the tallest building in the whole of Maryland and guests can enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop Skybar. The hotel was rescued by Rubell Hotels in 2013.
The interior was renovated and reimagined while maintaining its original features and reopened to the public in 2014. It is listed by Historic Hotels USA and protected as a national treasure.
Stepping through the original revolving doors into the splendid entrance hall, complete with a grand piano and mural glass chandelier, you can experience the luxury of a bygone era. This is continued throughout the communal spaces, including the stunning ballroom.
Rooms are large and comfortable in a muted colour palette that compliments the splendor of the building around them and staff are friendly and always helpful. The LB Bakery serves fresh baked bread and cakes and gourmet coffee all day and the LB Tavern serves up craft cocktails and locally sourced lunch and dinner menus.
The hotel is in the heart of downtown, just minutes from all the attractions. If you’re into the supernatural, this hotel is very haunted, with several accounts of ghostly sightings by staff and guests! A fantastic and unique place to stay.
Pros
Historic 1928 building
Breathtaking rooftop Skybar
Central downtown location
Cons
Low shower pressure
Only Valet Parking
Pier 5 Hotel Baltimore
Located on Pier 6, this Hilton Curio is a great choice if you want to enjoy all your creature comforts in the heart of the city.
A variety of colorful rooms and suites at Pier 5 Hotel Baltimore offer cosy thoughtful furnishings, dreamy beds and views of the harbor. At the same time, you can enjoy upscale dining at their on-site restaurants.
McCormick and Schmitt’s also offers a daily ‘Crabby Hour’ where you can enjoy the local food and beers. Free shuttles are offered to Fells Point and John Hopkin’s Hospital, and guests can enjoy a complimentary pass to Maryland Athletics Club. A very comfortable mid-range hotel from a reliable brand in a fantastic location.
Pros
Upscale waterfront location
Vibrant and colorful rooms
Upscale dining options
Cons
Remote Location
No microwave
1840s Carrollton Inn
Carrollton Inn is a hidden gem of a boutique hotel in the historic Jonestown district. The hotel is formed of a series of interconnected buildings around a beautiful courtyard, and each of its boutique rooms is themed and unique. Impeccably chosen antiques furnish the lovely accommodations, which all have opulent 4 poster beds and perfectly observed old-world charm.
An amazing gourmet breakfast is included in your stay and served in the elegant first-floor dining room. Just a short stroll from the hotel are several examples of Baltimore’s culinary explosion so that you won’t go hungry!
The hotel also has some stunning function rooms. Its historic ballroom, city lights bar, and Vintage cabaret put it high on the list of desirable wedding venues. It won’t break the bank either, with B&B starting at around $250.
Pros
Unique themed rooms
Gourmet breakfast included
Onsite spa
Rooms with spa baths
Cons
Potential noise from functions
No onsite bar
Some rooms are small
Rachael’s Dowry Bed and Breakfast
For a wholesome stay in Charm City, choose Rachael’s Dowry, where every effort is made to treat guests to a comforting home from home.
Don’t be fooled, though; this place is also luxurious, with each of the 6 suites decked out in authentic antiques and four-poster beds that reflect the original era of this historic downtown building.
Gourmet Breakfast is included and cooked up by the Amish-raised chef; ingredients are Uber-fresh and locally sourced, including tea and coffee, which are provided by local companies Harney & Sons and Orinoco, respectively.
Expect exceptional homemade granola and sticky maple French toast or perhaps Egg’s Rachel, a twist on traditional Eggs Benedict. If you like an evening tipple, then brandy is served in the library at 8.
Pros
Vintage chic B&B
Gourmet organic breakfast
Evening brandy in the library
outdoor courtyard
Cons
Not Dog friendly
No Elevator
Slow wifi
BlancNoir
A sleekly modern B&B in the heart of Little Italy, BlancNoir is close to the Inner Harbor and its many attractions, museums, and trendy restaurants. It has all the comforts, with shared living areas equipped with fireplaces, Smart TVs or Amazon Alexa speakers, board games, refrigerators, wine glasses, and books, and there’s also a deck and garden patio.
The four guest rooms, named for world cities, feature Posturepedic beds, Italian linens, individually-controlled AC and heating, LED flat screen HDTV, wifi, and coffee makers. Some rooms have jacuzzis, and champagne and fresh flowers are available on request.
Breakfast is served every morning, and the whole place is overseen by Cleo and Chloe, the two charming longhaired Siamese cats, in addition to the human hosts.
Pros
Laid-back Little Italy B&B
Sleek modern decor
Proximity to Inner Harbor
Well-equipped guest rooms
Cons
Some rooms can be small
No elevator
No microwave
In the table below, we have compared the top 20 cool and unusual hotels in Baltimore. You can sort the table based on different factors like location, distance from attractions, price per night, and restaurants nearby:
Hotel Name Location Price Range (per night) Fitness Facilities Distance to Attraction(km) Nearby Restaurants
Hotel Revival Baltimore 101 W Monument Street , Mount Vernon $241-$1152 Yes 0.1 18
Ulysses 2 East Read Street, Mount Vernon $260-$475 No 0.1 18
The Ivy Hotel 205 E Biddle Street, $823-$1293 Yes 0.5 17
Sagamore Pendry Baltimore 1715 Thames Street, Fells Point $719-$2156 Yes 0.1 25
Jurny, Brexton Hotel Baltimore, 21201 $215 No 0.3 19
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore 2 North Charles Street $351-$639 Yes 0.1 18
Canopy By Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point 1215 Wills Street, Fells Point $289-$948 Yes 0.1 23
Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel 202 East Pratt Street $369-$598 Yes 0.1 17
Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown 24 W Franklin Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 $248-$428 Yes 0.1 18
Four Seasons Baltimore 200 International Drive , Harbor East $11068-$5100 Yes 0.1 21
Lord Baltimore Hotel 20 West Baltimore Street $371-$394 Yes 0.1 20
Pier 5 Hotel Baltimore 711 Eastern Avenue $199-$404 No 0.1 17
1840s Carrollton Inn 50 Albemarle Street, Baltimore, $216-$544 Yes 0.1 19
Rachael’s Dowry Bed and Breakfast 637 Washington Boulevard $637-$684 (2 nights) No 0.1 13
BlancNoir 210 S High Street, Little Italy $224-$259 Yes 0.1 17
Beth Pinches – writer and photographer
Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au-pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or Facebook.
Related Posts