Visiting Fells Point in Baltimore, Maryland

Fells Point is a historic waterfront neighborhood in Baltimore, Maryland. Although it's probably not as well known as Baltimore's Inner Harbor, it's just as worthy of a visit. The neighborhood, established in 1763, contains over 160 historic buildings that appear on the National Register.

One historic landmark in the center of Fells Point is the Broadway Market. It was established as a major source of food for people in the area in 1786. It houses several delis and bars today and still draws hungry customers.

Other historic buildings in Fells Point include the Admiral Fell Inn and the London Coffee House. The Admiral Fell Inn, built in 1892, has been a boarding house for seamen, a YMCA, and a vinegar factory. The London Coffee House was built in 1771 and was the original town center. It was a meeting place where local patriots fomented revolution. The aforementioned Broadway Market is one of three markets established in the 1780's, but the only one still standing.

Fells Point was a shipbuilding port. It was famous for constructing the privateer clippers that harassed the British during the War of 1812 up until shortly after the Civil War.

Fells Point is also famous for its many bars and pubs numbering over 120. Visitors looking for fun can choose from many different kinds of watering holes and clubs. There are dance clubs, Irish pubs, comedy clubs, with live music at several establishments. There are also plenty of coffee shops and restaurants along the block streets. Many eateries in the bayside neighborhood specialize in seafood. Anything made with Maryland crab is always a favorite.

Although eating and drinking is a favorite activity in Fells Point, there are other things to do. Visitors can shop at local antique and souvenir stores, learn some local history at the Fell's Point Maritime Museum, or charter a fishing boat.

Fells Point is about 1.5 miles east of Inner Harbor. It's pretty easily accessible and is located about halfway between route 83 and I-95. Parking is somewhat limited. Make sure you pay attention to signs as many parking spots have limits or require a permit. There are lots of pay spots available, but parking can get hard to find on crowded days. They are generally two dollars per hour and can be paid for using a credit card at machines near the spaces.

There are buses and cabs that service the Fells Point neighborhood, but if you want to get to any place on the water, I suggest using the water taxi. The water taxi services Fells Point, Harbor East, Inner Harbor, Fort McHenry and several other destinations. The water shuttle costs $7 for a one-way ride or $12 for an all day pass. With an all day pass you'll receive a bunch of coupons like buy one pizza get one free or second beer free at places around Fells Point and Inner Harbor.

Have you been to Fells Point? What's your favorite restaurant or bar?