Public Transportation: Chesapeake Bay

Baltimore's MTA Network

Baltimore operates a comprehensive public transit network, which proves useful for getting around the city. The Metro SubwayLink, a single subway line, runs from Owings Mills, through downtown Baltimore, to Johns Hopkins Hospital. It presents a quick way to traverse the city center.

The Light RailLink connects Hunt Valley (north) and BWI Airport (south) via downtown Baltimore. It includes branches to Baltimore Penn Station and Oriole Park at Camden Yards, yielding useful connections. An extensive bus network covers Baltimore City and many surrounding counties. The Charm City Circulator is a free bus service on specific routes around popular areas, excellent for tourists.

Ticketing & Accessibility

CharmCard: Rechargeable smart card for MTA fares. Available at vending machines at Metro and Light Rail stations.
CharmPass app: Buy and use mobile passes on your smartphone.
Cash Fares: Accepted on buses and Light Rail; exact change is necessary. Single ride: ~$2.00. Day and weekly passes are available.
Accessibility: MTA Metro, Light Rail, and most buses are wheelchair accessible, adhering to ADA requirements.

Route Maps & Hubs

MTA route maps and schedules are online at mta.maryland.gov. Hubs: Lexington Market, Charles Center, Penn Station.

Hours & Frequency

MTA services operate early morning (5 AM) to late evening (midnight/1 AM), with reduced weekend service. Frequency varies by line and time of day.

Navigation Tips

Use apps (Google Maps, CharmPass) for real-time tracking. Utilize the free Charm City Circulator. Annapolis Circulator avoids parking hassles. Walking stands best for exploring historic cores.

Annapolis Public Transport & Other Areas

Annapolis Circulator

This public bus system operates routes around downtown Annapolis.
It covers the historic district, State House, and Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.
It helps visitors avoid parking challenges in the historic core.

Limited Public Transit Elsewhere

Public transportation remains very limited or nonexistent outside of Baltimore and Annapolis.
A personal vehicle is generally necessary for wider Bay exploration.
Annapolis Circulator hours vary by season and day of the week, often ending earlier.

Important Hubs and Connections

Lexington Market

MTA Metro and Light Rail transfer point.

Charles Center

Metro station in downtown Baltimore.

Penn Station

Light Rail stop, also serves Amtrak and MARC trains.

Annapolis Visitor Center

Maps and info for Annapolis Circulator.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services present convenient point-to-point transportation, notably useful for late-night travel or when public transit is not an option.

Taxi Services

Widely available in Baltimore, Annapolis, and at major airports.
Look for yellow cabs with a roof light indicating availability.
Hail on the street in busier areas, find at taxi stands, or call a local company.
Fares are metered (flag drop + per-mile charge). Most accept credit cards.

Ride-Sharing Uber & Lyft

Highly prevalent and widely used throughout urban and suburban areas.
They present competitive pricing and convenience through in-app booking and payment.
Generally available 24/7 in major cities.
Designated pick-up zones at airports and train stations.

Safety Considerations

Taxis: Confirm it's a licensed taxi with proper identification and a visible meter.
Confirm destination and approximate fare before departing.
Airport/station taxi arrangements: Follow signage to designated areas for organized pick-up.

Ride-Shares: Verify driver's name, vehicle, and license plate match the app before entering.
Share trip details with a trusted contact for added safety.
Use the in-app payment system rather than cash for ride-shares.

Affiliate Travel Resources

Flight Deals

Check Dollar Flight Club for discounted airfares.

Flight Search

Compare flights across airlines using Skyscanner.

Car Rental

Book your rental car in advance through DiscoverCars.com.

Rental Options

Renting a vehicle presents the greatest freedom to explore the Chesapeake Bay's diverse landscapes at your own pace.

Car Rental Information

Major Companies: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, National, Alamo, Thrifty, Dollar.
Requirements: Valid driver's license, IDP if non-English, major credit card, minimum age 21 (surcharge under 25).
Procedures: Book in advance. Inspect vehicle and note existing damage. Be aware of fuel policies.
A physical map or Rand McNally Road Atlas serves well for offline navigation.

Motorcycle, Scooter & Bike Rentals

Motorcycle/Scooter: Less common than car rentals. Some specialty shops may offer them.
Bicycle Sharing: Baltimore Bike Share previously operated (check current status).
Bicycle Rentals: Local shops in Annapolis, St. Michaels, Easton, and Kent Island (for Cross Island Trail) offer rentals.
Specialized transport like Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not present in this region.

Driving Laws & Road Safety

Traffic Rules

Drivers operate on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Cell phone use is restricted; hands-free operation usually applies.

Adhere to all traffic laws.

Road Conditions

Roads are generally in good condition. Watch for potholes after winter. Traffic gets heavy in metropolitan areas during rush hour (weekdays morning/late afternoon).

Plan for traffic delays.

Parking Challenges

Paid parking garages and metered street parking are common in Baltimore and Annapolis. Use parking apps. Many state parks offer free parking.

Consider parking apps for convenience.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

Annapolis's historic downtown stands very walkable, with cobblestone streets, shops, and restaurants.
Baltimore's Inner Harbor, Federal Hill, Fells Point, and Mount Vernon districts are very walkable.
St. Michaels on the Eastern Shore, a charming, walkable town.

Cycling Infrastructure & Tours

Maryland features many designated bike trails, including paved rail-trails.
BWI Trail, Capital Crescent Trail, B&A Rail Trail, and Cross Island Trail offer safe, scenic routes.
Guided or self-guided walking tours cover history, food, and architecture in Annapolis and Baltimore.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians/Cyclists

Avoid walking or cycling in known high-crime neighborhoods, specifically in Baltimore, especially after dark.
Stick to well-lit, populated tourist areas.

Avoid major highways and interstates, which are not designed for pedestrian or bicycle traffic.
Helmets are advised for all cyclists.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard modes, the Chesapeake Bay presents unique ways to experience its waters and attractions.

Water Taxis & Tours

Baltimore Water Taxi: Connects attractions around the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill, and Fort McHenry.
Annapolis Water Taxi: Operates in Annapolis, connecting points around the harbor, City Dock, and Eastport.
Chesapeake Bay Tour Boats: Numerous companies offer scenic cruises, lighthouse tours, fishing charters, and crabbing excursions.
These provide a direct way to experience the Bay's beauty and maritime activities.

Tour Buses & Accessibility

Baltimore: The Charm City Circulator (free bus) and commercial hop-on-hop-off bus tours.
Annapolis: Trolley tours offer a historical overview, often stopping at landmarks.
Accessibility: U.S. ADA mandates accessibility. Public transport systems (MTA, Annapolis Circulator) are generally wheelchair accessible.
Historic buildings may present limitations. Check with specific venues in advance.

Baltimore Charm City Circulator

A free bus service covering popular tourist areas like the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill, and Fells Point, ideal for moving between downtown attractions.

Water Taxi Network

The Baltimore and Annapolis Water Taxis offer scenic travel between waterfront attractions, defining a pleasant way to see the waterfront.

No Funiculars or Cable Cars

No cable cars or funiculars operate in the Chesapeake Bay region. Water taxis present the most unique local transport options.

Accessibility Notes

Public Transit Accessibility

MTA in Baltimore (Metro, Light Rail, buses) and the Annapolis Circulator are generally wheelchair accessible.
Many stations and stops have ramps or elevators.
Most attractions, hotels, and restaurants present accessibility features.

Considerations for Historic Sites

Historic buildings, especially without modern renovations, may present limitations with uneven surfaces or stairs.
Travelers with visual or hearing impairments can find resources. Service animals are legally permitted in most public places.
It stands advisable to check with specific venues in advance regarding their accessibility features.

Final Navigation Tip

While urban centers have robust public transit, a rental car or strategic use of taxis/ride-shares complements exploration of the wider Chesapeake Bay region's beauty.

Consider the Baltimore Water Taxi for scenic and practical commutes between waterfront attractions. Image source: Baltimore Water Taxi

Public Transportation