Top 15 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Baltimore 2023

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.
Hotel Revival Baltimore l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Great Location
Hotel Revival Baltimore
2.
Ulysses l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Instagrammable Decor
Ulysses
3.
The Ivy Hotel l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Couples
The Ivy Hotel
Best For Great Location

Hotel Revival Baltimore

Trendy hotel Baltimore

Hipster hotel in Baltimore

Cool hotels in 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

Best For Instagrammable Decor

Ulysses

Ulysses - a refined and charming boutique hotel Ulysses - a refined and charming boutique hotel1 Ulysses - a refined and charming boutique hotel2

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

Best For Couples

The Ivy Hotel

The Ivy Hotel Baltimore

Chic boutique hotels in Baltimore

Boutique hotel Baltimore

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

Best For Partying

Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

Trendy hotel in Baltimore

Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

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

Best For Unique

Jurny, Brexton Hotel

Jurny Brexton Hotel Baltimore

Luxury boutique hotel in Baltimore

Best hotels in Baltimore

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

Best For Boutique

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore

Luxury hotel in Baltimore

Kimpton hotel Baltimore

Chic upscale hotel in 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

Best For Views

Canopy By Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point

Canopy By Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point

Unique hotels in Baltimore

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

Best For Moden Decor

Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel

Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel - a stylish and informal hotel Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel - a stylish and informal hotel1 Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel - a stylish and informal hotel2

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

Best For Trendy Design

Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown

Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown

Instagrammable hotel in Baltimore

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

Best For Luxury

Four Seasons Baltimore

Best luxury hotels Baltimore

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

Best For Rooftop Bar

Lord Baltimore Hotel

Grand hotel Baltimore

Themed hotels Baltimore

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

Best For Great Location

Pier 5 Hotel Baltimore

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

Best For Great Breakfast

1840s Carrollton Inn

Elegant and unique accommodation in Baltimore

Themed guest house in Baltimore

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

Best For Four Poster Beds

Rachael’s Dowry Bed and Breakfast

Boutique inn Baltimore

Chic inn Baltimore

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

Best For Budget-friendly

BlancNoir

BlancNoir - an attractive and lovely B&B BlancNoir - an attractive and lovely B&B1

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 NameLocationPrice Range (per night)Fitness FacilitiesDistance to Attraction(km)Nearby Restaurants
Hotel Revival Baltimore101 W Monument Street , Mount Vernon$241-$1152Yes0.118
Ulysses2 East Read Street, Mount Vernon$260-$475No0.118
The Ivy Hotel205 E Biddle Street,$823-$1293Yes0.517
Sagamore Pendry Baltimore1715 Thames Street, Fells Point$719-$2156Yes0.125
Jurny, Brexton HotelBaltimore, 21201$215No0.319
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore2 North Charles Street$351-$639Yes0.118
Canopy By Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point1215 Wills Street, Fells Point$289-$948Yes0.123
Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel202 East Pratt Street$369-$598Yes0.117
Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown24 W Franklin Street, Baltimore, MD 21201$248-$428Yes0.118
Four Seasons Baltimore200 International Drive , Harbor East$11068-$5100Yes0.121
Lord Baltimore Hotel20 West Baltimore Street$371-$394Yes0.120
Pier 5 Hotel Baltimore711 Eastern Avenue$199-$404No0.117
1840s Carrollton Inn50 Albemarle Street, Baltimore,$216-$544Yes0.119
Rachael’s Dowry Bed and Breakfast637 Washington Boulevard$637-$684 (2 nights)No0.113
BlancNoir210 S High Street, Little Italy$224-$259Yes0.117