Getting Around: Baltimore

Public Transportation Overview

Baltimore’s public transport network, operated by MTA, includes Metro Subway, Light RailLink, and an extensive local bus service.

The Charm City Circulator provides free downtown bus service, a highly convenient option for tourist areas.

Transit Components

Metro Subway: A single line connecting Owings Mills, downtown, and Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Light RailLink: Runs from Hunt Valley through downtown to BWI Airport and Glen Burnie.
Local Bus Service: Extensive network covering the city and surrounding counties.
Charm City Circulator: Free, distinct routes for major tourist areas (Orange, Purple, Green, Banner).

Metro Subway

15.5 miles (25 km), 26 stops. Connects northwest, downtown, and east. Stops include Lexington Market, Charles Center, Shot Tower/Market Place.

Light RailLink

30 miles (48 km), connecting Hunt Valley, downtown, BWI Airport, and Glen Burnie. Useful for airport transfers and stadium access.

Local Bus Service

Extensive MTA network covers the entire city and surrounding counties, serving areas not directly reached by rail.

Ticketing & Operation Hours

Fares & Payments

Single Fare: $2.00 (Metro, Light Rail, Local Bus).
Day Pass: $4.60 for unlimited rides for one day.
CharmPass App: Purchase mobile tickets directly, avoids physical tickets.

Operating Hours & Frequency

Metro/Light Rail: Early morning (5 AM weekdays) to late evening (midnight).
Frequency: 10-20 mins peak, 20-30 mins off-peak/weekends.
Charm City Circulator: Generally 7 AM-8 PM weekdays, 10 AM-8 PM weekends (extended to midnight Fridays/Saturdays).

Accessibility & Navigation Tips

Accessible Services

MTA buses have lifts or ramps; Metro/Light Rail stations are accessible.

Charm City Circulator

Utilize this free service for efficient travel within core tourist areas.

Google Maps/CharmPass

Use apps for real-time route planning, schedules, and alerts.

Longer Distances

Light Rail and Metro are efficient for longer journeys and airport transfers.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, direct transportation, especially for shorter distances or when carrying luggage.

Taxi Information

Licensed taxis are typically yellow with a "Taxi" sign on top.
Hailing taxis on the street is possible in busy areas; designated stands at hotels/stations.
Fares are metered (base + per-mile), with possible extra charges.
Payment accepted by cash or credit card. Tipping 15-20% is customary.

Ride-Sharing Details

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular via their mobile apps.
Apps provide fare estimates before booking and cashless payment.
Always confirm driver's name, car model, and license plate match app info for safety.
Designated pick-up zones are present at BWI Airport and Penn Station.

Rental Options

Car Rental: Requires valid driver's license (IDP recommended for foreign licenses) and major credit card. Minimum age 21 (surcharge 21-24).
Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Limited availability, more for recreational rides outside the city.
Bicycle Rentals: Available from independent shops around Inner Harbor; check for Baltimore Bike Share status.

Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelt use mandatory. Speed limits enforced. Right turn on red after full stop usually fine.
Road Conditions: Generally well-maintained. Be aware of urban traffic and narrow cobblestone streets in historic areas.
Parking: Can be challenging and expensive downtown. Numerous garages available; meters often use mobile apps.

Car Rental Company Comparison Example

Enterprise

Available at BWI. Age 21+ (25+ for no fee). Wide vehicle range.

Hertz

Available at BWI. Age 21+ (25+ for no fee). Loyalty program, premium options.

Budget

Available at BWI. Age 21+ (25+ for no fee). Often competitive prices.

Walking & Cycling

Exploring Baltimore on foot or by bicycle presents unique perspectives and access to charming areas.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

Inner Harbor: Highly walkable with wide promenades linking major attractions.
Fells Point: Historic charm with cobblestone streets, best explored on foot.
Federal Hill: Offers scenic views from the park and charming streets below.
Mount Vernon: A cultural district pleasant for walking, with historic architecture and museums.

Walking Tours & Safety

Guided walking tours focus on history, architecture, ghosts, and food (e.g., Baltimore Food Tours).
Self-guided tours: Use maps or a Baltimore walking tour guide book.
No-go areas: Some neighborhoods away from main attractions may be less safe, especially at night. Stick to well-lit routes.
Always exercise caution and seek local advice regarding unfamiliar areas.

Cycling Information

Bicycle Infrastructure

Baltimore has limited dedicated bike lanes, though expansion efforts are underway.

Check current operational status for city bike share.

Recreational Routes

Gwynns Falls Trail: Over 15 miles of paved trails. BWI Trail: A 12.5-mile loop around the airport.

Ideal for scenic rides outside dense urban areas.

Cycling Safety

Take safety precautions on city streets with vehicle traffic. Wear a Helmet and use lights.

Always ride defensively and be visible.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Services

City Sightseeing Baltimore: Hop-on-hop-off bus tours covering major attractions with commentary.
Other operators: Offer specialized tours like ghost tours, historical tours, and food tours (foot or smaller bus).
Tours provide deep insights into the city's character.

Water & Accessibility

Baltimore Water Taxi (seasonal): Efficient and scenic transport between Inner Harbor, Fells Point, Fort McHenry.
Accessibility: MTA buses, Metro, Light Rail are generally wheelchair accessible. Many attractions comply with ADA standards.
Older historic sites or cobblestone streets may present mobility challenges.

Important Transportation Safety

For Taxis/Ride-Shares

Ensure the taxi has a visible meter and proper licensing.
For ride-shares, always confirm the driver's details match the app before entering.
Share your trip details with a trusted contact for added safety.

General Travel Advice

When walking, stick to well-lit, populated routes, especially at night.
If cycling on city streets, wear a helmet and use lights for visibility.
Stay informed on local conditions and traffic alerts via apps or news.

Transportation Tip

Purchase a MTA Day Pass if you plan more than two public transit rides in a single day. This typically offers cost savings.

The Charm City Circulator always presents a free option for quick trips around the core tourist areas, limiting the need for paid transport within those zones.

Getting Around Baltimore