Enjoy Baltimore’s rich history with the captivating downtown in-app audio tour. This innovative experience guides visitors through the city’s iconic landmarks, from the Bromo Seltzer Tower’s Florentine-inspired architecture to the storied Davidge Hall, home of the University of Maryland’s medical program. Venture to the eerie Westminster Church and Cemetery, where the ghost of Edgar Allan Poe is rumored to linger. Uncover the city’s multifaceted past as you explore its architectural heritage and connection to influential figures. What secrets lie within Baltimore’s historic streets? Discover them for yourself.
This experience made our list of the 21 Best Tours In Baltimore.
Key Points
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The iconic Bromo Seltzer Tower, with its blue facade and panoramic city views, is a must-see landmark in downtown Baltimore.
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Davidge Hall, the historic home of the University of Maryland School of Medicine, offers a glimpse into the lives of 19th-century medical students.
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The haunted Westminster Church and Cemetery, where Edgar Allan Poe is interred, are known for reports of unexplained paranormal activity.
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The Edgar Allan Poe Monument, a life-sized bust of the renowned author, serves as a testament to his literary legacy.
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The vibrant Mount Vernon neighborhood showcases the Walters Art Museum’s premier collection of ancient to Renaissance artworks.
Iconic Bromo Seltzer Tower
Towering over downtown Baltimore, the iconic Bromo Seltzer Tower stands as a lasting symbol of the city’s industrial past and its enduring architectural heritage.
This striking blue-hued structure was built in 1911 as the headquarters of the Bromo-Seltzer drug company, known for its popular antacid product. Designed in the style of a Florentine campanile, the tower’s unique appearance has made it one of Baltimore’s most recognizable landmarks.
Today, visitors can explore the tower’s interior, which houses a museum showcasing the building’s history and the Bromo-Seltzer brand. From its striking blue facade to its panoramic views of the city, the Bromo Seltzer Tower continues to captivate and inspire all who encounter it.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Baltimore.
Davidge Hall and Medical Students
Davidge Hall, the historic home of the University of Maryland School of Medicine, has long been a testament to the city’s legacy of medical innovation and education. Within its storied walls, generations of 19th-century medical students honed their craft, shaping the future of healthcare in Baltimore and beyond. From dissecting cadavers to perfecting surgical techniques, these aspiring physicians tackled the challenges of their time with determination and curiosity. The building itself, with its grand neoclassical architecture, serves as a physical embodiment of the institution’s rich history and enduring impact on the community.
Year | Enrollment |
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1830 | 102 |
1850 | 156 |
1870 | 194 |
1890 | 235 |
1910 | 309 |
Haunted Westminster Church and Cemetery
Within the heart of downtown Baltimore, the spires of Westminster Church rise up, casting long shadows over the adjoining cemetery where the remains of renowned poet Edgar Allan Poe lie interred.
Legends abound at the Westminster Churchyard, including:
- Sightings of a hooded figure thought to be Poe’s ghost, roaming the grounds at night
- Unexplained noises and apparitions near Poe’s gravesite
- Eerie experiences reported by those visiting the church, from unexplained chills to unexplained shadows
Whispers of otherworldly activity have long surrounded this hallowed ground, with tales of spectral figures and unexplained phenomena captivating visitors for generations.
Whether truth or fiction, the haunting aura of Westminster Church and Cemetery remains a captivating part of Baltimore’s rich history.
Edgar Allan Poe’s Monument
Poe’s simple yet elegant monument stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the famed American writer, poet, and literary critic.
Erected in 1875, the grave marker features a life-sized bust of Poe atop a granite pedestal, overlooking the hallowed grounds of Westminster Churchyard where the author’s remains were interred.
Visitors to the cemetery can pay their respects at this iconic memorial, which has become a must-see destination for those exploring Baltimore’s rich literary history.
The monument serves as a poignant reminder of Poe’s profound influence on American letters, his haunting tales, and the tragic circumstances of his untimely demise.
More Great Tours NearbyMount Vernon Neighborhood and Legacy
After exploring the haunting history of Edgar Allan Poe’s final resting place, the tour now turns its focus to the vibrant Mount Vernon neighborhood, a historic district that showcases Baltimore’s rich cultural legacy.
This picturesque area is home to the Enoch Pratt Free Library, a renowned institution that has served as a hub of knowledge and learning for over a century. Visitors can stroll through the charming streets and admire the impressive array of architectural styles, from Italianate townhouses to Gothic-influenced churches.
The neighborhood is also renowned for its thriving arts scene, with several galleries and performance venues that celebrate the city’s creative spirit.
Key highlights in Mount Vernon include:
- The Walters Art Museum, housing a premier collection of art and artifacts from ancient civilizations to the 20th century
- The monument to George Washington, a iconic landmark that has stood as a testament to the nation’s founding father
- The Maryland Historical Society, which preserves and shares the state’s rich history through exhibits and educational programs
Walters Art Museum’s Premier Collection
The Walters Art Museum houses one of the premier collections of art and artifacts in the world, spanning ancient civilizations to the 20th century.
Visitors can enjoy the museum’s impressive holdings, which encompass everything from ancient Egyptian sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces and modern contemporary works.
From the moment they step through the doors, guests are transported on a captivating journey through the evolution of human creativity and cultural expression.
The museum’s diverse collection allows visitors to explore a wide range of artistic traditions and gain a deeper understanding of the human experience across centuries and cultures.
Whether one’s interests lie in painting, sculpture, or decorative arts, the Walters Art Museum offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the richness of global artistic heritage.
Ouija Spirit Board History
Originating in the 19th century, the Ouija spirit board has long captivated the public’s imagination as a means of communicating with the supernatural realm.
The history of the Ouija board is shrouded in mystery, but it has become an iconic symbol of the occult.
This self-guided tour explores the intriguing past of the Ouija board, including:
- The board’s invention by Elijah Bond in 1890 and its early use as a parlor game
- The supernatural claims and controversies surrounding the Ouija board’s alleged ability to channel spirits
- The Ouija board’s enduring popularity in pop culture, from Hollywood films to modern-day spiritualists
Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, the Ouija board’s captivating history is sure to intrigue as part of this self-guided audio tour of downtown Baltimore.
Tour Logistics and Important Information
This self-guided audio tour offers flexibility, allowing users to join whenever they want and explore at their own pace. The downloadable audio guide is available offline, ensuring a high-quality experience throughout the tour. Participants will need to bring a charged smartphone with the WeGoTrip app installed to access the tour guide and detailed route with live GPS map.
Tour Logistics | Important Information |
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Flexible tour – join whenever you want | Bring charged smartphone and downloaded WeGoTrip app |
Explore at your own pace | No museum tickets included – you can visit them on your own |
Audio tour available offline | N/A |
Detailed route with live GPS map on smartphone | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Day to Take This Tour?
The best time to take a self-guided audio tour is typically during the daytime when attractions are open and fewer crowds are present. This allows for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience exploring the area at one’s own pace.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Users can selectively explore tour highlights and opt out of sections that don’t align with their interests, allowing them to personalize their experience.
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The tour has no specific dress code, so visitors can wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended to explore the sights comfortably. Layering is advised to adjust to any changes in temperature during the self-guided tour.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Student or Senior Visitors?
Student and senior discounts may be available for this tour. Visitors should check the tour provider’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any discounted pricing options prior to booking.
Can I Purchase Tickets for Museum Visits Through the Wegotrip App?
The WeGoTrip app does not include museum tickets as part of the tour. Visitors can explore the museums on their own and purchase tickets directly from the respective institutions. The app only provides the self-guided audio tour experience.
Recap
Downtown Baltimore’s in-app audio tour provides a captivating glimpse into the city’s architectural wonders and storied history.
From the iconic Bromo Seltzer Tower to the haunted Westminster Church, each landmark offers a window into Baltimore’s past.
This immersive experience invites visitors to uncover the city’s multifaceted heritage, showcasing its connection to influential figures and rich cultural legacy.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Self-Guided Tours in Baltimore
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